Election 2022: South Haven Twp. approves, Niles Twp. rejects marijuana proposals

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Voters in two southwest Michigan townships have gone in opposite directions when it comes to pot.

A ballot proposal to allow recreational cannabis facilities has been approved by South Haven Charter Township voters by a margin of 892-752, while Niles Charter Township voters rejected a similar ballot proposal, with 2,322 votes in favor and 2,512 votes against.

In South Haven Township, the proposal repeals the township’s prohibition of cannabis establishments and authorizes a minimum of three adult-use retail establishments in the township. After the three retailers are licensed and operating, the township board of trustees will be allowed to set a maximum number of establishments.

Establishment types other than retailers will be prohibited, unless the township board allows other types by subsequent ordinance.

In Niles Township, the failed proposal would have allowed a minimum of four processor establishments, four retailers, three cannabis microbusinesses and four grower establishments. In 2019, the township board of trustees had unanimously voted to block recreational marijuana businesses.