Fort Smith Erupts: Community Rallies Against Proposed Cannabis Dispensary Near School

A palpable tension filled the room as Fort Smith residents gathered for a public meeting, not just to discuss amendments to the town's zoning bylaw, but to passionately confront a deeply unsettling proposal: a cannabis dispensary slated for a location perilously close to Paul William Kaeser High School and a bustling residential area.

The focal point of the evening's intense discussion was a development permit application for a cannabis retail store at 171 McDougall Road.

While technically outside the current 300-meter exclusion zone from schools (a distance measured from property line to property line, not school entrances or common student areas), residents argued this technicality completely missed the spirit of the bylaw and the safety of their children.

Jackie Miltenberger, a vocal community member and parent, spearheaded the opposition, presenting a petition bearing 60 signatures against the proposed location.

Her concerns echoed throughout the room: the potential for increased crime, loitering, and a detrimental impact on property values. "We moved here for the small-town feel, the safety for our children," Miltenberger stated, emphasizing that a cannabis store so close to a high school sends the wrong message to impressionable youth.

She questioned the rationale, asking, "Why would we want a cannabis store near our children?"

The debate also illuminated critical ambiguities within the town's existing regulatory framework. Bylaw 807, Section 1.5, notably lacks a specific definition for a "cannabis retail store." This oversight has led to confusion and, according to critics, a piecemeal approach to development.

John Moeller, another concerned resident, succinctly captured this sentiment: "The bylaws are written backwards." He argued that clear, comprehensive definitions should precede any development applications, ensuring the town's vision aligns with community values.

Jackie Dubeau reinforced the widespread apprehension about children's safety.

"Our kids walk on that road to get to school," she pointed out, highlighting the real-world implications of placing such a business in a family-oriented neighbourhood. Kim Miltenberger echoed the sentiment, questioning why an industrial zone wasn't considered for such an establishment, expressing bewilderment at the current choice.

Steve Desjardins, the town's director of protective services, acknowledged the community's strong sentiments.

He explained the existing 300-meter rule and the current lack of a formal definition for cannabis retail stores within the bylaw. Desjardins assured attendees that the town is actively working to address these gaps. Future amendments are expected to include a precise definition for cannabis retail stores and potentially re-evaluate or clarify the measurement parameters for proximity to sensitive areas like schools.

The public meeting served as a crucial platform for Fort Smith residents to make their voices heard.

The town council now faces the challenging task of balancing development interests with profound community concerns. The strong opposition voiced by parents and residents has undoubtedly left an indelible mark, signaling that any further decisions regarding the zoning bylaw and cannabis retail locations will be met with intense scrutiny and a resolute demand for community-centric planning.