The Marijuana study group committee was formed to research the issues related to opting in and allowing marijuana related businesses to operate in the city of Lathrup Village. The city had previously opted out but established a sunset period by which time the city would revisit the decision. The committee acknowledges that the use of marijuana is legal in the state of Michigan and was not tasked in determining whether the use of marijuana is morally right or wrong. Our only task is to determine if allowing marijuana businesses into the city would be beneficial to the city or not.
Timeline
End of Sunset Period – September 28, 2020
Committee timeline – We will make a recommendation to the city at the July City Council Meeting or shortly thereafter
Grow facility – not ideal for Lathrup Village Microbusiness - grow on a smaller scale Processing facility – may require too large of facility for LV Testing/Compliance – could potentially fit in LV Medical MJ Provisioning Center – could potentially fit in LV Recreational MJ Provisioning Center – could potentially fit in LV Transportation Business – could potentially fit in LV
All types of marijuana business will bring in application fee and license fee revenue. Potential of $5,000-$10,000 per application and license fees. Also will include renewal fees and inspection fees. Potential initial license fee revenue could exceed $100,000 in the first year due to number of applicants for licenses.
Only recreational marijuana provisioning center (retail) and microbusiness facilities will bring in excise tax revenue which is 10% of sales and is shared based on a formula. Could be a significant revenue source as the industry is expected to grow. Cannot quantify at this time however.
Some communities have seen an increase in property values for their homes and businesses since allowing marijuana facilities to operate in their cities
All city officials we have spoken with have had a positive experience overall with allowing marijuana businesses in their cities and recommend that Lathrup Village opt in for medical and recreational provisioning centers.
The quality of the marijuana businesses that have opened in the most cities has been described as high.
These cities will allow us to review their ordinances & policies
These cities have not seen an increase in crime since allowing marijuana businesses.
The police departments of some of the cities were not in favor of allowing marijuana businesses into their cities but have supported the city’s decision and have not had any major issues with crime or policing due to these businesses.
There have not been a significant level of complaints by residents or nearby businesses.
Traffic volume has been an issue in some cities as well as parking.
Smell has been an issue in some cities but the problems have been rectified by the businesses.
Chiefs in two other cities had reservations but have seen no problems so far.
Security is important and necessary
There are security experts available to consult with (and we have) that will assist the city ensure that proper measures are taken.
All applicants must have security measures included in their business plans.
The city should have security requirements as part of their application process.
Health officials have indicated that medical marijuana is beneficial to many patients.
The committee is not going to express an opinion on whether marijuana is good or bad for the health of individuals. There are opinions on both sides of that issue.