Proposed law could ban smoking marijuana in public, outdoor places in Village of Mamaroneck
Mayor Sharon Torres says the proposal is being driven by resident complaints.
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The debate over public use of marijuana is making its way to the Village of Mamaroneck.
A proposed law would ban people from smoking or vaping marijuana in all outdoor public places.
Mayor Sharon Torres says village trustees are set to discuss the proposal during their work session Monday night.
However, the possibility of a ban is already sparking a strong reaction from people in the village.
"I don't smoke, so I don't want to smell it," says Leila Present.
"It's kind of the same with cigarettes, if you want to smoke when you're on the street, no one's around, who cares," says Ben Feinblum.
Torres says the proposal is being driven by resident complaints and a need for more local regulation.
If passed, penalties could include up to $250 in fines and up to 15 days in jail.
"They should have a designated area," says Fred Muraca.
"I think it could be useful, especially when you go further down Boston Post Road, just because of how many schools there are, shops there are," says a man who wants to remain anonymous.
Jennifer Gierum, the founder of High Life Health dispensary, says she supports limited public use, but warns against going too far.
"I do agree we should strongly enforce, and make sure that police do enforce, but we don't need to re-criminalize something and go backwards in time," Gierum says.
Gierum says this could also restart the conversation around cannabis consumption lounges. They're social spaces, similar to bars, where adults can legally use cannabis onsite.
"Bars are really struggling and allowing a bar owner to try and license as a recreational cannabis consumption space, it will also give those businesses sustainable outlets for the future, as people stop drinking alcohol," Gierum says.
If eventually passed, it appears the village would be the first municipality in Westchester to have such legislation.
