Pure Roots, LLC is trying to open up a marihuana business in Warren, Mi that would employ 100 people. The local government in Warren is resisting their efforts.
Pure Roots sued the city and presented a "secret recording" as evidence.
A secret recording was played in a Macomb County courtroom Friday in connection with the ongoing drama surrounding licensing marijuana facilities in Warren.
"The best I can do for you is when you sue, I'll tell the truth. That's the best I can do because that's my policy anyway, right? I'm not going to lie to the court, I'll tell them I was against it for political reasons. It had nothing to do with the value of your application."
According to a lawsuit, the recording is of Warren City Councilman Ron Papandrea.
The article from WDIV does not say specifically what the Councilman was allegedly suggesting. Seems strange to deny Pure Roots a license for "political reasons" when 57% of Michigan residents voted to legalize marihuana for recreational use. What overcomes the "political reasons"? How does a person seeking a license in Warren address this concern? I'm almost afraid to ask.
We should caution that there are two sides to almost every story, but this is not a good look for the City of Warren. Elected officials and local government should not make licensing decisions based on "political reasons."