As expected, the Village of Lake George Board of Trustees voted unanimously to ban the retail sale of marijuana for now. They may choose to opt-in at a later date. In September, the Village held a public hearing on the issue. Property owners and residents expressed concerns that a cannabis dispensary would negatively impact the Village’s family-friendly environment. Some commented they had problems with users on their property.
Citizens speaking at the hearing were also concerned about the effects marijuana use would have on children and police presence at Village events. In a Nov. 16 press release, Village officials noted that the Village does not have a police department.
Opting out means the Village will not be able to share in state revenues generated by cannabis sales, however, Board members believe that the loss of revenue would be small compared to the possible problems that might arise from allowing marijuana sales.
New York State legalized the recreational use of marijuana on March 31, 2021. Cities, towns and Villages have until the end of the year to decide if they wanted to allow its sale in their municipalities. The State is currently developing regulations for the sale of cannabis products. According to the Village press release, some Village officials may reconsider the opt-out decision once New York State has better-defined regulations.
Hmmm — let’s see. Wasn’t cannabis sold in a shop across the street from Capri Pizzeria during the vacation season? So . . . did the Village rake in tax revenue over the summer and then change its mind about it when it got cold outside and the streets are empty?