On May 20, 2025, Kent County Levy Court will vote on a resolution that encourages state legislators to consider local needs in cannabis-related legislation. This decision comes after the original resolution, which specifically addressed SB 75, was tabled on May 13 for a more general draft.
SB 75 aims to relax zoning restrictions for recreational marijuana dispensaries across the county. Levy Court President Joanne Masten emphasized the importance of state and county collaboration, stating, “We will never go against the state. All we’re asking them is to be cognizant that the county is in the best position to understand the county needs.”
Masten highlighted that Kent County has already established clear zoning laws that differentiate industrial, agricultural, residential, and retail areas, negating the need for new adjustments specifically for cannabis. “We did not set about to change any of our zoning because of marijuana, because we already have our zones,” she remarked.
Additionally, while other regions in Delaware are exploring the option to tax marijuana sales, Masten noted that there has been no interest from the county’s commissioners or residents regarding this matter. “It has never come to me from any Commissioner, nor even any of the residents about taxing marijuana,” she stated. Masten affirmed that Kent County is managing its budget well and does not support raising taxes at this time.
As discussions surrounding cannabis zoning evolve, Kent County appears to be taking a proactive approach in ensuring local interests are represented in state legislation.
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