Trenton Volunteer Fire Department Chief Steve Heckman addresses the public during a special town meeting April 28.
Trenton Volunteer Fire Department Chief Steve Heckman addresses the public during a special town meeting April 28.
TRENTON — No petitioner spoke in favor of Trenton adopting an adult use recreational marijuana store ordinance during the town Select Board’s special meeting April 28.
The citizen initiative seeks to have the town’s two existing medical marijuana dispensaries open up to sales for recreational adult use, pursuant to the Maine Marijuana Legalization Act.
During public comment on the matter, one resident noted supporters’ absence.
“I think if they cared so much for this petition, at least one of them would be here tonight to speak in favor of it,” she said.
Another resident, a retired physician, expressed his disapproval of allowing recreational sales, stating that it can lead to higher impaired driving rates and makes it easier for minors to get ahold of the cannabis. He cited scientific research indicating that use can cause cognitive development problems in children, among other factors.
“Marijuana is not the benign drug many of us think that it is,” he said. “Up until just five days ago the Drug Enforcement Administration classified marijuana as a Schedule I drug with high potential for abuse and psychological dependence.”
Obligated to send the question to vote during Trenton’s annual Town Meeting May 19, Select Board member Judith Sproule said she wished board members had time to work with the petitioners and gather research.
“I wish they came to us beforehand to discuss more, instead of bringing this petition that we are now obligated to vote on,” Sproule said.
The meeting also covered proposed changes to Trenton’s land use and shoreland zoning ordinances.
A proposed change is adding a requirement that the fire chief or a designee review Conditional Use Permit applications and provide written comments to the Planning Board.
“I often get called out of Planning Board meetings, so it’s hard for me to be here for discussion,” Chief Steve Heckman said. “This will provide clearly in writing what we need to see in applicants, alleviating unnecessary conversations.”
The proposed shoreland ordinance changes will prohibit medium and large solar projects in the town’s shoreland zone.
All three matters are awaiting voter approval at Trenton’s annual Town Meeting at 6 p.m., May 19, at Trenton Elementary School.
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