Split sentiment for recreational marijuana sales in Libertyville

Public sentiment may make it tough for Libertyville leaders to decide whether to allow recreational marijuana sales in town.

Opinions voiced at a public hearing Monday before the village's advisory plan commission were split. At one point, an informal show of hands showed an almost equal number for and against as the village, like other communities, decides whether to allow recreational marijuana sales beginning Jan. 1, and, if so, where that could happen.

"I think the community is sort of on the fence, and so am I," Commissioner Rick Pyter said after about an hour of public comment. "I think there was a really good discussion on both sides."

The commission made no decision and continued the session to Sept. 24. It will make recommendations on five separate elements, including whether to allow sales, where and under what conditions.

Some who spoke at the hearing Monday noted illegal recreational marijuana use already occurs in town, and, once pot becomes legal under state law, the village should take advantage of potential tax revenues. Communities allowing recreational marijuana sales can impose a tax of up to 3%.

"I don't see any reason we should throw away a possible revenue source," said Kyle Cashman, a third-generation resident. "I think it would be silly to just shut down the conversation," he added.

Village staffers said there are no estimates of how much the village could make. That and other information, such as traffic enforcement, will be researched before the September hearing, officials said.

Many at the hearing agreed there is medicinal value to marijuana, which is available at three locations in Lake County for that use. But some urged a wait-and-see approach on recreational sales to avoid mistakes others have made.

"We need more time to do it right the first time," said Barbara Shafer.

Others argued it wouldn't fit Libertyville's image.

"It's not worth the money. Libertyville is better than a couple of bucks," said Bonnie Quirke, president of the Cook Memorial Public Library District board.

Lifelong resident Corey Grupe, who is seeking to open three recreational dispensaries in various areas, said recreational and medicinal licenses are "completely different."

At first, only 49 licenses will be allowed in nine counties based on a point system with security comprising the main component, said Grupe, who was joined by his security consultant, Kenneth Boudreau.

Boudreau said recreational sales are "very rigidly controlled." While cannabis will still be available and sold illegally in town, allowing recreational sales would give village officials some control, he added.

Restaurateur John Durning opposes recreational pot shops downtown.

"If you do this, put it in a location that can benefit the people who want to use it," he said

Mayor Terry Weppler on Tuesday noted the revenue argument could complicate the village's intention to seek voter approval for a sales tax to pay for capital projects.