No locations for marijuana growing in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE - The City of Moses Lake has a rough idea of possible locations for marijuana retail stores and processing locations in the city limits, but don't expect production locations.

The city mapped out several possible locations for a marijuana business based on zoning regulations to prepare for rules implementation for recreational marijuana by the state Liquor Control Board.

According to City Manager Joseph Gavinski, because of current zoning codes and required 1,000 foot buffer zones from schools and parks, there are no possible locations for growing marijuana in the city limits.

Gavinski said several areas were identified as locations for the processing of marijuana and retail stores, which is primarily in commercial zones including along Pioneer Way and Broadway Avenue near Interstate 90, East Broadway Avenue near state Route 17 and a section east of Patton Boulevard.

"Those would be the areas that we would think appropriate for possible retail marijuana sales," Gavinski said. "And those would be it."

The Liquor Control Board limited the number of retail stores in Moses Lake to two but there is no limit to the number of processing locations in the city or state. The board is scheduled to begin accepting applications Nov. 18 and the city will have to wait what licenses are granted for Moses Lake.

"This is still in a state of flux," Gavinski said. "This gives us a rough idea. The biggest issues of course will be when you get close."

Gavinski said the zoning map was provided as a guide for the City Council for zoning and business license issues. If a license for marijuana processing or resale is approved in Moses Lake, a business license would also be required, similar to establishments that sell liquor.

Two public hearings are scheduled before the Liquor Control Board plans to make the rules effective Nov. 16.