Cannabis survey results show resistance to retail sales in Kent

KENT, Conn.—Following a months-long survey that showed significant opposition to retail cannabis sales in the town, the Planning and Zoning Commission’s Cannabis Subcommittee has forwarded a draft ordinance to the Planning and Zoning Commission that would prohibit such sales.

Over 64 percent of respondents supported the implementation of buffer zones and restricted operating hours for cannabis establishments—should they be permitted—demonstrating the desire for strong local oversight even among those who are not entirely opposed. 

The draft ordinance would prohibit the sale of cannabis or cannabis products to consumers for personal use but does not prohibit the delivery of cannabis to consumers in Kent by licensed cannabis retailers located outside of the town, as permitted by state law. 

The ordinance would not affect personal use, possession or cultivation of cannabis as allowed by Connecticut law or licensed “medical marijuana” patients or caregivers. Neither would it affect industrial hemp cultivation that is licensed and regulated separately under state and federal law.

The survey created by the subcommittee gathered input from more than 460 residents, providing “clear insights into public sentiment,” according to Subcommittee Chair Sarah Chase.

“The data reflects a cautious but open-minded community—one that supports medical access, values farming traditions and seeks to preserve the unique character of Kent,” she wrote in her executive summary. 

“Through thoughtful planning, proactive education and zoning flexibility, Kent has the opportunity to create a cannabis ordinance that protects residents, supports local agriculture, and complies with evolving state policy,” she concluded.

The summary suggested that the Planning and Zoning Commission craft a balanced ordinance allowing limited cannabis retail and production with strict zoning, buffer zones and agricultural compatibility requirements, promoting low-visibility outdoor cultivation and discouraging industrial-scale operations near residential areas. 

Chase did not see Kent as viable for large-scale hemp production because of its climate and topography, but when committee member Darrell Cherniske asked why hemp production might be regulated when other forms of agriculture are not, Chase replied that cannabis cultivations tend to take place in “massive” greenhouses and to be energy intensive. 

The smell associated with hemp production cannot be regulated, however. “Agriculture is a smelly business,” she said, admitting that cannabis produces a “skunky” odor. Kent has a strong “Protection of Farms and Farmers from Nuisance Claims” ordinance, indemnifying farmers operating in a manner consistent with accepted agricultural standards from nuisance lawsuits. 

She suggested that small-scale cannabis and industrial hemp farming be permitted under Kent’s existing farming protections, but with conditional use approval to avoid community conflict.

Further, she suggested that cannabis retail establishments be prohibited via a town ordinance or zoning. Any ordinance the town might consider must be compliant with state statutes (CGS § 21a-420 et seq.) while reflecting Kent’s local values and planning goals.

In discussing the survey results, subcommittee members noted that the least represented age cohort in the survey were young adults, with the largest number of respondents between the ages of 55 and 74.

Member Darrell Cherniske said he was surprised by the low response from young people, who might be the group most affected by any regulations or ordinance. But member Chris Harrington speculated that young people didn’t know about the survey because they do not pay attention to the things happening in town or look at social media sites such as Facebook.

Anne McAndrew worried about the missing age group. “I’m kind of bummed out about that,” she said. “It’s important to hear their voices.”

“If we move to an ordinance, we would want them in the room,” agreed Chase. “We would have to tell them, ‘On this day we will have a meeting to decide. You have a second chance to have a say.’”

Ways of communicating with young adults were briefly discussed, but Chase concluded, “The town’s median age is 54, and that group is solidly represented in this survey. In another five or 10 years, things may change as we learn more about the character and direction the town goes in. What we have in front of us reflects what we have now.”

The materials collected and the draft ordinance were forwarded to the Planning and Zoning Commission for its consideration and the suggested ordinance will be considered by the selectmen.

The current six-month moratorium on zoning applications for cannabis businesses will be extended for an additional six months.