Zoning plan includes permit pause on cannabis stores

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – Youngstown’s zoning board is taking the next steps in creating a more uniform look to downtown.

The Board plans to recommend four moratoriums on various businesses in town, putting a halt to zoning permits and other licenses for small-box discount stores, new and used car sales, repair shops and cannabis operators.

With the first sales of recreational marijuana in Ohio expected possibly as early as next month, lawmakers in the City of Youngstown are considering limiting the number of dispensaries.

The move comes as the zoning board has been deciding on new zoning standards for aesthetics and design businesses.

“We don’t want marijuana dispensaries to become like liquor stores or dollar stores or check cashing places,” said Youngstown City Councilman Julius Oliver.

Currently, there’s one dispensary in Youngstown — Leaf Relief on Market Street. It sells medical marijuana and its owner has said he plans to sell it for recreational use as well.

Julius Oliver says the plan is to allow Leaf Relief to sell for recreational use but to put a two year moratorium on any additional marijuana dispensaries in Youngstown.

“We don’t want to be inundated. We don’t need dispensaries on every side of town,” Oliver said.

Council is expected to take up the matter on June 5.

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