The Washington State Liquor Control Board is in the process
of finalizing rules to start issuing licenses for the many recreational
marijuana producers, processors, and retailers across the country. Kent,
Washington was once viewed as a prime location for marijuana production but
that doesn't seem to be in Kent's future. The City Council voted to ban medical
marijuana in June 2012 and it seems that they will be treating recreational
marijuana the same way.
While State law allows both medical marijuana and
recreational marijuana to be produced and sold, the City of Kent has said that
they believe the businesses violate federal law. As such, they will not allow
any recreational businesses to open in town next year.
Some on the council are worried, however, that if they don't
zone properly for future marijuana businesses, they may be left out in the
cold.
"This only stops
us from not being able to participate in tax revenue….People will engage in
marijuana use and will spend money somewhere. I hate to see us cut off the nose
to spite the face."
--Elizabeth Albertson, Councilwoman
There are a few medical marijuana businesses that still
manage to operate in Kent, despite the ban. Under the zoning code, they have no
legal right to operate and they have told them multiple times to close. Herbal
Choice Caregivers is one business that has fought the city in Kent County Superior
Court and for now stays open.
