With Medical Marijuana Approved, Milford Eyes Zoning for Dispensaries

Two weeks ago, voters in Massachusetts approved marijuana for medical purposes by a 2-to-1 margin.

The intiative will authorize 35 treatment centers for medical marijuana across the state. Under current zoning, Milford has not accounted for these kinds of treatment centers, or dispensaries. That's soon going to change.

Milford Selectmen agreed Monday to ask the town's Planning Board, which oversees zoning, to recommend areas of town that would be suitable for a dispensary, and what restrictions should be applied, if one were to be located here.

Some towns, including Quincy, have already said they will try to restrict the location of dispensaries through zoning changes. Milford Selectmen said that voters have spoken, and dispensaries should be allowed. But the location should be regulated.

In Milford, 7,514 voters picked "yes" on Question 3, which authorized medical marijuana and the treatment centers. Voting against were 4,829 townspeople.

Under current zoning, the entire town is open for a dispensary, without any restriction on location, said Town Counsel Gerry Moody.

Dino DeBartolomeis said he voted against the medical marijuana question, but accepts the "will of voters." Particularly given the location of Milford Regional Medical Center, he said, there is potential for Milford to have a dispensary.