Lynnwood council to revisit ban on retail cannabis sales during April 21 meeting

The Lynnwood City Council is preparing to discuss the potential lifting of its retail cannabis sales ban during its meeting on April 21, 2024. Council President Nick Coelho has motioned for the ban's removal, emphasizing the need to support small business owners in the city. This debate has been ongoing since recreational cannabis use was legalized in Washington in 2012. In September 2023, the council tasked the Planning Commission with examining the city's zoning laws to formulate recommendations for cannabis sales in designated areas. Alongside this, the council will review updates to the Unified Development Code, which is essential for aligning local policies with state housing density laws.

If the council fails to adopt a UDC by the June deadline, the state may impose a standardized model code. Additional agenda items include interviewing Judy Nummer for the History and Heritage board and reviewing proposed updates to Development and Business Services fees. This meeting is pivotal for determining the future of cannabis sales and development regulations in Lynnwood.