A former bank building in Machesney Park, Illinois, is on its way to becoming a cannabis dispensary, thanks to a recent decision by the village board to grant a zoning exception. While zoning regulations in the area typically require dispensaries to be at least 250 feet away from residential properties, the board made a special allowance for this project, citing the potential for economic growth and community revitalization.
The cannabis dispensary is proposed to open in a building that once housed a Park Bank branch. However, the location posed a challenge: it sits too close to nearby homes. Under normal circumstances, this proximity would have disqualified the site. But in a board meeting held earlier this week, officials voted in favor of making an exception.
Mayor Steve Johnson explained the decision, emphasizing the broader benefits to the village. “When we fill a building with a new business opportunity, the whole community grows,” Johnson said. “Nobody wants empty buildings.” He also noted that, per state regulations, cannabis must be securely stored in a vault, which adds a layer of safety to the proposal.
Still, not everyone in the community is in favor of the move. Some residents living close to the site have voiced concerns, particularly about traffic and neighborhood safety. Ilani Us, who resides directly behind the building, expressed her unease. “I’m not against dispensaries, but I don’t believe that’s the right location,” she said.
Traffic congestion was a common concern among residents, with some fearing that the new business would only add to an already busy street. “I’m afraid there will be an accident,” one resident said, pointing out that the road conditions are already problematic during peak hours.
Despite the mixed reactions, the journey of the cannabis dispensary is far from over. The owners still need to apply for and receive additional permits before moving forward with renovations or operations. T
This development reflects a growing trend in Illinois, where more communities are revisiting zoning laws and making way for cannabis businesses. As state regulations continue to evolve and local governments seek to repurpose vacant properties, these types of zoning exceptions may become more common.
Whether the cannabis dispensary will ultimately win over its skeptical neighbors remains to be seen, but for now, Machesney Park has taken a clear step toward embracing the cannabis industry.
