ONTARIO — Ontario City Council President Eddie Gallo admitted some residents might think city council belabored a decision on commercial cannabis sales.
As president, Gallo only votes on council legislation to break a tie, but he was far from needing to exercise that power Wednesday as city council members voted 6-0 to prohibit commercial cannabis sales and cultivation within city limits.
“I want to thank council for their work in this endeavor,” Gallo said. “Often, we have things come before us that are fun and easy to agree upon and help move the community along. Other times, we have difficult questions like this to consider.
“I appreciate that everyone here on council made a point to hear from each other and members of the community. That’s how the process is supposed to work.”
Gallo previously stated that council members could later decide to repeal the legislation if they wish.
Council members heard from multiple residents in council chambers, via emails and phone calls since passing an original temporary moratorium and subsequent extensions.
Rachelle Gallo spoke during public commentary in favor of prohibiting commercial cannabis sales on Wednesday.
Many other residents including law enforcement officials, clergy members, school leaders and business owners spoke or wrote to council during the past three months in favor of the permanent moratorium.
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Mayor: Council sent ‘a strong message about what our community represents’
According to the Richland County Board of Elections, the city of Ontario recorded a 52% vote against Issue 2, with the measure failing by 103 votes last November. Only Ontario’s 2-A precinct recorded a majority in favor of Issue 2.
About 55% of Springfield Township voters and 50.1% of Richland County residents voted against Issue 2.
Mayor Kris Knapp, who also does not vote on council, said lawmakers sent a clear message Wednesday night.
“Going back to Councilman Rehfeldt’s comments, he asked previously what does our community stand for and what do people think of when they think of Ontario?” Knapp said.
“I think council sent a strong message about what our community represents.”
The ordinance does not affect the ability of adults over age 21 to buy and possess up to 2.5 grams of cannabis and grow plants at their home according to Ohio Revised Code regulations.
It is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of marijuana. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends against consuming marijuana when pregnant, breastfeeding or while underage.
Also in Wednesday’s meeting:
- Council members read the first draft of temporary budget appropriations for 2025. The legislation needs to be approved by the end of the year.
- Council opened and closed a public hearing for a rezone request with no public commentary on the matter. The owners of Arbor Creek Gardens & Floral, located at the former Shafer Landscaping, requested a rezone from residential to business at the September planning commission meeting.
- Reveille planning leaders presented insights for a 20-year strategic plan to the economic development committee. Key points included improving connectivity between neighborhoods, updating the city’s zoning codes and establishing a “downtown” area.
- Council members discussed potentially increasing rental fees on the city’s community room and Marshall Park pavilion for 2025 due to new investments in the spaces.
- Knapp announced demolition of the former Denny’s building has begun, making room for a Raising Cane’s next year.
- Knapp announced new iPads and one laptop for council use are in the city offices and will be available for council members soon.
- Parks committee chair Troy Sapp reminded council members and the public that Ontario Youth Sports is hosting a golf cart holiday parade at 5:45 p.m. Dec. 5 before the annual Christmas tree lighting in Marshall Park. Golf cart and side-by-side owners can decorate their vehicles and register for the parade by contacting OYS at info@oysports.com.
- Councilman Josh Bradley said the Springfield Township Fire Department, The Ontario Center and Ontario Community Events are partnering on a toy drive though Dec. 18. Donations can be dropped off at fire stations, The Ontario Center, Directions Credit Union on 4th Street and Spitzer Automotive. Donors can also purchase gifts from the Amazon wishlist to support delivery directly to the fire stations.
- The Ontario Police Department and Lions Club are also partnering on a toy drive through Dec. 9.