PALM BAY, Fla. – Palm Bay leaders approved an ordinance that blocks any new medical marijuana dispensaries in the city.
The deputy mayor said he supports small businesses, but cited concerns about the number and placement of dispensaries recently built in the area — including some located near daycares. He said that’s why he introduced the ordinance.
The city attorney told council members Palm Bay had two options:
- Ban new dispensaries, or
- Treat existing dispensaries as pharmacies
The motion passed 4–1, meaning no additional medical marijuana shops will be allowed in Palm Bay.
One speaker urged council members to consider veterans who use medical marijuana for PTSD, saying:
“Keep in mind we do not want to hurt our veterans who use medicinal marijuana for PTSD.”
Another person supported the ban, saying:
“I’m thankful we’re getting rid of things that may cause vets to see things that aren’t there and hear things that aren’t there.”