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Politics & Government

Clarifying My Stance on Medical Marijuana

In no way does my new business item introduced this week halt any progress toward patients being able to get the medications they need.

In response to several comments I've been reading on Attleboro-Seekonk Patch, I would like to clarify and answer some of the questions that have been circulating regarding my stance on the medical marijuana dispensary issue.

Yes, I did vote in favor of Question 3 and I'm proud to be in touch with the majority of voters in Attleboro and Ward 4 on this issue. My compassion for the sick and the costly fight of an unwinnable battle over a medicine ultimately swayed my thought process on this question.

In no way does my new business item introduced this week halt any progress toward patients being able to get the medications they need, as has been suggested. The new business item basically says, "Let's implement this type of facility in our city's zoning ordinances and let's find a place to put it so it doesn't disrupt others." This is a very sensible approach to a sensitive matter.

Find out what's happening in Attleborowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This legislation is an attempt to head off and weed out the logistical problems first, so we can move forward. Of course there will be some compromises and controversies among residents and councilors along the way, but who would want it any other way? That's democracy.

The way I see the big picture is that medical marijuana dispensaries will be around for five to 10 years—a short-term entity if the current trend continues toward full legalization. If the federal government decides to decriminalize only for medical use, then the local pharmacies will get that business and knock out the dispensaries. If the federal government decides to decriminalize marijuana altogether, there will be no need for dispensaries, and we will be looking at other issues and new business proposals for an entirely different type of business.

Find out what's happening in Attleborowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

I assure you I'll stay in front of this important issue. I can be contacted at jonathanforcitycouncil@gmail.com.

Jonathan Weydt is the Ward 4 representative on the Attleboro City Council.

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