During a recent government meeting, Wilmington officials discussed the implications of the city's participation in the emerging cannabis industry, emphasizing the importance of social equity and local economic benefits. Concerns were raised about ensuring that Wilmington does not miss out on opportunities for social equity, particularly in light of historical injustices related to marijuana arrests.

City representatives highlighted that the only zones available for cannabis businesses would be the riverfront and downtown areas, which could lead to an influx of franchises rather than local enterprises. This situation raises fears that local communities may not fully benefit from the lucrative cannabis market.

Commissioner Coop addressed questions regarding the financial benefits for Wilmington, noting that the city would receive wage tax revenue from potential dispensaries and related businesses. However, he acknowledged that the number of dispensaries would likely be limited to two or three, which may not yield significant financial returns.

A key point of discussion was the Justice Reinvestment Fund, which allocates 7% of monthly tax revenue from cannabis sales to support grants and initiatives overseen by the Criminal Justice Council. While this fund aims to address social equity issues statewide, the competitive nature of the funding raises concerns about Wilmington's ability to secure necessary resources.

Council members stressed the need for thorough vetting and community engagement regarding the cannabis industry’s expansion in Wilmington. They acknowledged the complexity of the issue and the necessity for ongoing discussions to ensure that the city's interests are adequately represented and that local communities benefit from the new economic landscape.