In a recent government meeting, the first reading of KLC 921 dot 6842024 was presented, which proposes amendments to articles 8, 13, and 14 of the Owensboro Metropolitan Zoning Ordinance. As it was the first reading, no vote was conducted during the session.

The ordinance follows a public hearing held by the Owensboro Metropolitan Planning Commission on August 3, 2024, where zoning ordinance text amendments were adopted. The Davis County Fiscal Court has reviewed these amendments and confirmed their compliance with community guidelines and Kentucky law.

A significant aspect of the proposed changes is the introduction of regulations concerning medical cannabis, following recent state legislation that allows local governments to establish such regulations. The proposed framework includes definitions for five types of medical cannabis uses: cultivators, dispensaries, processors, producers, and safety compliance facilities.

Key regulations outlined include a 1,000-foot buffer requirement from primary and secondary schools or daycare facilities for all medical cannabis uses, and a one-mile buffer between dispensaries within the community. Additionally, in unincorporated Davis County, only one medical cannabis dispensary will be permitted per rural community, allowing for a controlled distribution of these facilities.

The new regulations are set to take effect on January 1, 2025, marking a significant shift in local zoning laws to accommodate the emerging medical cannabis industry. The council anticipates mixed reactions from the community as these changes are implemented.