On March 2, Middlebury residents will vote on whether or not to allow regulated cannabis stores to open in town. As downtown merchants and property owners, we write to urge all Middlebury residents to vote “Yes” on Question 3.
Middlebury’s downtown has lost numerous businesses over the last few years. For remaining businesses like ours, the vacant storefronts pose a serious threat, diminishing the sense of vibrancy that makes people want to visit, shop, and eat here. A well-run and socially responsible regulated retail cannabis business will not only fill a vacancy, but also generate significant foot traffic to the downtown, bringing both locals and visitors into town who will patronize other businesses and help boost the sense of vibrancy that our town has been lacking for many years.
Allowing regulated sales would reduce illegal sales of cannabis, as consumers would gravitate towards a safer shopping experience. We’ve seen in other states that introducing licensed cannabis stores reduces local crime rates, raises local property values, and reduces teen use by driving away the existing suppliers who don’t check ID—all while bringing new jobs and new local option tax revenues to our town
For more information, we invite you to check out MiddYes.comhttp://MiddYes.com.
Abbey LaMay-West
Alessandra &
Matthew Delia-Lobo
Amey Ryan
Becky Dayton
Ben Wells
Bryan Phelps
Doug Nedde
Lisa Phelps
Matt Bonner
Nancie Dunn