![](https://cdn.socast.io/6616/sites/389/2019/09/24113901/Tim-Gleason.jpg)
By Neil Doyle
BLOOMINGTON – A leader in Bloomington thinks the discussion surrounding onsite recreational marijuana use will continue once more rules are set at the state level.
The Bloomington City Council this week approved two licenses for recreational marijuana dispensaries but voted down a recommendation made by the city’s planning commission to allow onsite cannabis use at dispensaries.
Bloomington City Manager Tim Gleason spoke with WJBC’s Scott Miller about the council’s decision for onsite consumption.
SCOTT MILLER SHOW: City Manager Tim Gleason "We are not opposed to on site consumption, its just too soon" https://t.co/oxrqK3THFH
— WJBC AM-1230 (@WJBC) December 18, 2019
“I think there were some concerns out of the majority of the council to pass that right now,” said Gleason. Some probably have an opinion they would never support that, but I think what we heard Monday night and in past discussions is they aren’t opposed to it. It’s just to soon to consider right now.”
Gleason said he would not be surprised if the conversation continues midway through next year or in the summer.
Meantime, Blake Lives Matter Bloomington-Normal put out a statement on Facebook and said, “there is absolutely no racially-just cannabis reform that does not include onsite consumption.” The organization said, “disallowing onsite use will perpetuate the same system of criminalization that has targeted and brutalized poor people and people of color for generations.”
Recreational marijuana becomes legal in Illinois Jan. 1.
Neil Doyle can be reached at [email protected]