Share Your Thoughts on Needham's Marijuana Bylaws

How do you think the town should handle people smoking pot?

Town Meeting voted to refer the item back to the Board of Selectmen for further study. The Board will hold a public hearing about medical marijuana use around town, according to an announcement on the Town website. 

The July 16, 7:30 p.m. hearing will focus on the bylaws concerning use and consumption of the smokable around town, as well as possible locations for a dispensary in town. 

Town Meeting voted to put a year-long moratorium on the medical marijuana dispensary zoning. This moratorium will allow officials to address what they have described "as ambiguities, policy issues and questions" about how to apply the outlined law at a town government level.

Before the November vote, several Needham Health officials spoke out against the medical marijuana initiative. Gov. Patrick said he would likely vote against the ballot question. In October, Needham and Newton were considered for Locations of Medical Marijuana 'Consultation Centers', but were ultimately passed over.

At next week's meeting, the Board of Selectmen will take up the question of medical marijuana consumption bylaws, as well as another hearing on the town's Odd/Even Water Ban.