A recently passed NYS law allows for cannabis dispensaries and on-site consumption sites state-wide beginning in 2022. It also creates an opportunity for municipalities to “opt-out” of the law by December 31, 2021.

The Southold Town Board has a public hearing ongoing through December 28, 2021, to hear feedback on its intention to pass a Local Law entitled, “A Local Law Opting out of Adult-Use Cannabis Retail Dispensaries and On-Site Consumption Sites.”

The law (and the Town Boards’ intention to opt-out) is designed to allow the decision about the existence of dispensaries and use-sites in the Town of Southold to be made by the voting public through a permissive referendum.  It is therefore prudent that the ICB understand the Island’s position.


Information:

Public Hearing Announcement:
https://fishersisland.net/2021/12/southold-town-board-public-hearing-re-opting-out-of-adult-use-cannabis-retail-dispensaries-on-site-consumption-site/

Article on Permissive Referendums and how they apply to this situation:
https://www.tapinto.net/towns/north-salem/sections/government/articles/what-is-a-permissive-referendum