Poughkeepsie Town Planning Board takes neutral position on cannabis moratorium – Mid Hudson News

Poughkeepsie Town Board Considers Temporary Moratorium on Adult-Use Cannabis Retail Dispensaries

Overview

The Town of Poughkeepsie is currently evaluating a proposal to implement a temporary moratorium on new adult-use cannabis retail dispensaries. This initiative aligns with the town’s commitment to responsible urban development and sustainable community planning, reflecting key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).

Planning Board’s Position

During the recent Thursday session, the Poughkeepsie Town Planning Board reviewed the moratorium proposal. The board opted to maintain a neutral stance, choosing not to take a definitive position either in favor or against the moratorium at this stage.

Next Steps and Public Engagement

The Town Board has scheduled a public hearing to discuss the six-month moratorium proposal. This hearing will take place on July 16, providing an opportunity for community members to participate in the decision-making process, thereby supporting SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) through inclusive governance.

Key Points of the Moratorium Proposal

1. Temporary halt on the establishment of new adult-use cannabis retail dispensaries.
2. Duration of the moratorium set for six months.
3. Opportunity for public input during the scheduled hearing.
4. Assessment of potential impacts on community health, safety, and economic development.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

• SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Ensuring that cannabis retail development considers public health implications.
• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities: Promoting responsible urban planning and sustainable local economic growth.
• SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: Encouraging transparent and participatory governance through public hearings.

The Town of Poughkeepsie’s approach to this issue highlights a balanced consideration of economic opportunities and community well-being, fostering sustainable development in line with global goals.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • The article discusses the regulation of adult-use cannabis retail dispensaries, which relates to public health and safety concerns.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • The consideration of a moratorium and involvement of the town planning board reflects urban planning and community governance issues.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • The public hearing and decision-making process indicate governance, transparency, and inclusive decision-making.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
   • Target 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol.
2. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
   • Target 11.3: Enhance inclusive and sustainable urbanization and capacity for participatory, integrated and sustainable human settlement planning and management.
3. SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
   • Target 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. For SDG 3, Target 3.5:
   • Indicator 3.5.1: Coverage of treatment interventions (pharmacological, psychosocial and rehabilitation and aftercare services) for substance use disorders.
   • Implied through regulation and control of cannabis dispensaries to manage substance use.
2. For SDG 11, Target 11.3:
   • Indicator 11.3.1: Ratio of land consumption rate to population growth rate.
   • Indicator 11.3.2: Proportion of cities with a direct participation structure of civil society in urban planning and management that operate regularly and democratically.
   • Implied by the involvement of the town planning board and public hearings.
3. For SDG 16, Target 16.7:
   • Indicator 16.7.2: Proportion of population who believe decision-making is inclusive and responsive.
   • Implied by the public hearing and the town board’s consideration process.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: midhudsonnews.com