I am a resident of Mason, Ohio, and I have seen firsthand how lives can be affected by marijuana addiction. A close family friend suffered from this addiction, and the impact on his life and his family was devastating. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, approximately 30% of marijuana users develop marijuana use disorder, leading to dependence and, in some cases, addiction. Expanding marijuana access by allowing dispensaries within our community boundaries could potentially lead to an increase in such cases.

Increased Crime & Safety Risks :                                                                   With easy access to I-71, Mason already experiences car break-ins, thefts, and criminals on the run seeking shelter in residential areas.
Dispensaries attract more crime, both as robbery targets and as magnets for drug dealers looking to introduce more harmful substances, like fentanyl, to recreational users.

Traffic Dangers & DUIs:                                                                                              I have personally had my cars totaled twice since moving here, and we hear far too often about serious pedestrian and auto accidents in our community.
Since the legalization of recreational marijuana in Ohio, I have noticed the smell of cannabis frequently at gas stations and parking lots, meaning more people are using it—many while driving.
Marijuana impairs reaction time and cognitive function, increasing the risk of fatal accidents.

Increased Use & Mental Health Concerns :                                                More accessibility leads to more usage. Just as the internet made pornography easier to access—driving up addiction and negative societal impacts—the same holds true for marijuana.
More studies now link marijuana use to psychosis. A recent Wall Street Journal article noted that while marijuana is at least as harmful as alcohol, we still don’t fully understand its long-term effects, which could be even worse.                                                                                                           

Damage to Our Property Values & Community Reputation :                    We did not move to Mason to be surrounded by strip clubs, adult bookstores, payday loan shops, or pawn shops—all of which contribute to declining property values and increased crime.
Dispensaries do not belong in our city—let alone in our backyard.

What You Can Do : 
We need to take action NOW to protect our neighborhoods:

Prepare to speak out against the ordinance at the public hearing on March 10th at Mason City Council Meeting. We can support one another by preparing talking points if needed.

Please make every effort to attend this meeting and make your voice heard. Together, we can protect our families, our neighborhood, and the future of Mason.

Thank you for your time and support in this critical matter.

I urge the city officials to reconsider their decision and instead focus on measures that ensure the wellbeing of our community. 

Please sign this petition to support the cause and send a message that we prioritize the health and safety of our community members over commercialization.