City of Pasco Statement on Retail Cannabis Sales Decision
In the culmination of a lengthy process, the Pasco City Council voted 4 to 3 at the June 5 Regular Meeting to permit the retail sale of cannabis within specific zoning districts in the city, lifting a previous prohibition on such sales. This decision follows a series of workshops, resolutions, and Council meetings dating back to 2022.
The approved ordinance allows retail cannabis sales in the C-1; C-2; C-3; I-1; I-2; and I-3 zoning districts, subject to specified buffer requirements to ensure sales locations are appropriately distanced from facilities such as recreational centers, childcare centers, public parks, public transit centers, and libraries.
The ordinance restricts the number of potential cannabis retail outlets to three stores, with a possible addition of a fourth store should it be a "social equity licensee," reflecting the current number of licenses allotted for the City of Pasco and Franklin County by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board.
While this decision will generate discussion and differing views, the City Council has acted according to the regulatory process and strived to balance various interests. Adjustments can be made to the ordinance as the situation evolves, and the City Council continues to listen to feedback from the public and stakeholders. The Council also confirmed that the ordinance maintains the prohibition on cannabis production and processing facilities within the City of Pasco.