The village of Geneseo has become the center of a lively debate over whether to allow retail cannabis dispensaries. With only one legal dispensary currently operating in Livingston County, located in Dansville, the decision could have important implications for the community’s economy and culture.
Earlier this week, the Geneseo Village Board of Trustees held a public hearing to gather feedback from residents. According to Mayor Chris Ivers, the turnout was strong, and the meeting sparked a constructive discussion about the town’s future. “We had a reasonably good turnout and a healthy community conversation about what we want to do with our community going forward,” Ivers said.
Arguments Against Dispensaries
Some residents voiced concerns that permitting cannabis sales in Geneseo could increase traffic and disrupt the village’s character. Others worried about the permanence of the decision, pointing out that under current state law, once a municipality opts in to allow dispensaries, it cannot later opt out. For those cautious about long-term commitments, this restriction makes the decision even more significant.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters, however, argued that cannabis is already legal in New York and should be regulated like any other business. Shelly Wolanske, owner of Mrs. Green’s CANNAry in Batavia, pushed back against traffic concerns. “When you open a dispensary, you’re not having millions of people coming in,” she said, explaining that while opening day may be busy, day-to-day operations are manageable.
Longtime resident Don Livingston also spoke in favor, suggesting that Geneseo should embrace dispensaries just as it does restaurants, liquor stores, or convenience shops. “It’s legal, it’s here,” Livingston said. “To me, this is no different than wanting to bring in another restaurant.”
Skeptics have raised questions about whether cannabis sales would provide meaningful financial benefits. Municipalities receive just 4% of retail cannabis sales tax, which some say is too small to make a difference. However, proponents argue that the economic ripple effect could be far greater. As Livingston pointed out, visitors drawn to Geneseo for cannabis might also stop for gas, shop at local boutiques, or dine at restaurants, boosting revenue for other small businesses.
Next Steps
Village leaders in Geneseo will review community feedback before deciding on the local law in the near future. The choice is not just about cannabis
t’s about whether the village sees itself as ready to embrace new business opportunities while balancing tradition and growth.
As Geneseo weighs its options, the debate illustrates the broader challenges facing small towns across New York as they navigate the changing cannabis landscape.
