Sarnia will allow the licenced, retail sale of cannabis in the city.
In a 7-2 recorded vote, city council decided to "opt in" to the private retail model.
Councillors Dave Boushy and Margaret Bird voted against the recommendation.
BREAKING - Sarnia council votes to opt in to the private retail model for cannabis. #SLont
— Melanie Irwin (@MIrwinCHOKNews) December 17, 2018
"The reality is, it's happening," said councillor Brian White. "Whether we opt in or we opt out, there's absolutely zero doubt that we have consumers in this community."
He said people are going to access it regardless -- so he'd rather they do it at a licenced store.
"The reality is what it is," said White. "So, we can decide whether or not we're going to have partners at the table, through retail shops, private owners who can discuss issues with us as we grow through this process and as we grow through this culture. I'd rather have somebody at the table who's part of this."
Councillor Terry Burrell also supported the recommendation, although reluctantly he said.
"I don't think it's wise to smoke anything," said Burrell. "I think what we have to be concerned about is the product safety and accessibility."
Burrell expressed concern about impurities in illegal marijuana.
Municipalities were required to make a decision by January 22 to be eligible to operate a store beginning April 1, 2019.
However, the chances of getting a licence will still be difficult.
The Progressive Conservatives announced last Thursday, December 13, that only 25 licences will be issued by April, because of what it calls ``severe supply shortages'' across the country.