Tazewell County is advancing plans for what may become Washington’s first adult-use marijuana dispensary. Zepln Enterprise, LLC has submitted a request for a special use permit to establish a Key Cannabis Dispensary at the intersection of Centennial Drive and McClugage Road.
The proposed site consists of nearly one acre of commercially zoned land situated adjacent to an O’Reilly Auto Parts store. Proposed business hours are limited to 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and outdoor seating will not be permitted. Additionally, current city regulations prohibit drive-through marijuana sales.
Regulatory Framework and Location Concerns
According to regulations enacted by the city council in 2019, dispensaries must maintain a minimum distance of 1,000 feet from public and private schools, day care centers, and licensed residential care facilities. Furthermore, dispensaries are required to be at least 250 feet from residential areas.
Washington plans to implement a 3% cannabis sales tax in addition to the existing 9% city sales tax, contributing to local revenue streams.
Staff Recommendations and Upcoming Vote
The city’s planning and zoning commission has unanimously recommended approval of the special use permit as of April 1. City staff have also voiced support, stating, “The proposed special use for the city’s first adult-use dispensary is appropriately located and is not expected to adversely impact nearby properties.”
The final decision rests with the city council, which is likely to address the special use request during its meeting on April 20. However, a vote on the matter is not anticipated at that time.
For updates on local cannabis industry developments, stakeholders can monitor resources such as NCSL’s Overview on State Medical Marijuana Laws.