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by Raelynn Lee,WSBT22Reporter
It’s up to voters to decide on a potential dispensary ban in Niles Township. (WSBT photo)
BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. (WSBT) — It’s up to voters to decide on a potential dispensary ban in Niles Township.
Two referendums will appear on the ballot on Election Day next Tuesday.
Depending on how residents vote, this could lead to a big change for marijuana businesses in the township. This is the latest in a series of twists and turns regarding marijuana sales.
The first proposal asks if a rezoning ordinance for marijuana shops should be approved or denied. The second bans marijuana businesses entirely in the township.
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The first is a referendum on zoning ordinance amendment 25-01.
This will ask voters if a rezoning ordinance allowing more than 20 marijuana establishments should be approved or denied.
The other ordinance would prohibit marijuana establishments.

Earlier this year Niles Township approved 21 marijuana dispensary licenses at Monday night's board meeting. (WSBT Video)


WSBT visited Niles Charter Township to speak with township supervisor, Marge Durm-Hiatt, about the proposals.
She said she is unable to comment as their attorney has advised them not to speak.
WSBT also spoke to the Berrien County clerk to ask for clarification on the ballot.
She advised us to speak with the township but did say the proposals are resident-initiated.
Last Spring, the Niles Township Board approved 21 marijuana sales permits along State Road 933. But those were put on hold after a citizen-led group pushed for the ballot proposals for the November election.
Those businesses along M-51with lease or sale agreements ready to go with incoming marijuana establishments are waiting to see how the election plays out.

{p}Earlier this year Niles Township approved 21 marijuana dispensary licenses at Monday night's board meeting. (WSBT photo) {/p}

Earlier this year Niles Township approved 21 marijuana dispensary licenses at Monday night's board meeting. (WSBT photo)

Earlier this year Niles Township approved 21 marijuana dispensary licenses at Monday night's board meeting. (WSBT photo)
Jays Lounge posted on Facebook announcing a temporary closure of their Niles Township location.
The post said, “Regardless of the hopeful sale, I will continue to be a Niles township landowner, and the financial consequences of a marijuana ban will be extensive to all.”
The owner of Jays Lounge said he would be willing to speak with WSBT after the election.
Election Day in Michigan is November 4th.
2025 Sinclair, Inc.

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