Fulton County Ohio Media

Delta resident Beth Thomas, representing Healthy Choices Caring Community (HC3), addressed the Delta Village Council on her concerns with the potential legalization of recreational marijuana in the State of Ohio and the possibility of a medical marijuana dispensary operating within the Village limits. 

Ms. Thomas, who is also an employee of the Fulton County Health Department (FCHD), focused her concerns mainly on marijuana use by the youth of the community (18 and under).  She cited results of a 2018 FCHD study which showed 20% of sixth to eight graders and 31% of high schoolers considered marijuana to be “readily available”.  Marijuana, she said, is considered to be a “gateway” drug by law enforcement and has negative long-term effects on young people with their decision making, reward seeking, impulse control, learning impairment, memory impairment and school performance.

“Delta is the only community in Fulton County that I’m aware of that does not have an ordinance against the use of medicinal marijuana or recreational marijuana,” said Ms. Thomas.  She voiced other concerns including pending legislation in Ohio to “double” the number of dispensaries for medical marijuana and potential federal legislation allowing both medical and recreational marijuana.

Ms. Thomas encouraged the Council to have the “conversation” about the issue she brought forward and said she would be willing to help in any way.

In legislation, the first Reading of Resolution #21-16, providing for the establishment of a new fund consistent with the requirements of ORC 5705.09 (F) was approved.  The new fund will be titled “Grant Construction Fund” and will allow to apply for available state funds to make a water connection with Fulton County.

Also passing was the First Reading of Resolution #21-17, declaring it necessary to levy a tax in excess of the ten-mill legislation.  This tax revenue will be used for the Delta Police Department.

Resolution #21-18, authorizing the Village Administrator to execute necessary documents and agreements to facilitate the purchase of vacant property located at 200 Main Street in Delta was approved.  It is understood the purchase price of this parcel shall be $40,000, comprised of the following payment:  $20,000 cash and documentation accepting a #20,000 charitable donation from the seller.

Council approved the date of October 31, 2021 and the time of 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM for Trick or Treat Night.  Trunk or Treat at Library will also be held.

The next meeting will be held on October 4, 2021 at 5:30 PM in Memorial Hall.

Pictured:  Beth Thomas addresses Delta Village Council