City Council debates cannabis ordinance amid confusion over synthetic substances

The Pewaukee Common Council meeting on July 7, 2025, focused heavily on the regulation of cannabis-derived products within the city. Council members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the current ordinances and the implications of allowing or banning various substances, particularly synthetic cannabinoids.

A key point of contention was the need for clarity on existing ordinances that govern the sale of cannabis products, including delta-8, delta-9, and delta-10 THC. One council member expressed concern about the potential sale of synthetic marijuana and other related products, suggesting that the current language in the ordinance may not adequately cover all substances. They proposed tabling the discussion until further clarification could be obtained regarding which products are explicitly banned.

The conversation also touched on the impact of these regulations on local businesses. A council member inquired whether businesses could survive without selling CBD products, indicating that customer demand might influence the decision-making process. The discussion revealed a divide among council members regarding the acceptance of CBD and synthetic products, with some advocating for a stricter approach to regulation.

Additionally, the council explored the presence of local bars selling CBD-infused beverages, raising questions about compliance with city ordinances. The need for further investigation into these establishments was acknowledged, highlighting the complexity of regulating cannabis-related products in the community.

As the meeting concluded, the council recognized the importance of establishing clear guidelines to ensure public safety while also considering the economic implications for local businesses. The next steps will involve gathering more information on the ordinances and potentially revisiting the discussion in future meetings.