City Councilors debate hours of marijuana sales, hotel permit and parking on private ways

The Waltham City Council at its meeting last week unanimously approved zoning amendments for medical and recreational marijuana establishments, with the amendments allowing dispensaries to operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., including Sundays, aligning Waltham’s regulations with state rules.

Valerio Romano, attorney for UMA Flowers Waltham LLC, spoke in favor of the changes, emphasizing the need for consistency in operating hours to avoid confusion for customers and staff. The proposed hours would be 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.

Ward 1 Councilor Anthony LaFauci noted that the amendment would streamline the process for businesses like UMA Flowers, which has been navigating the city’s zoning regulations for years. 

Also at its meeting last Monday night, the CIty Council discussed a special permit request for a six-story hotel at 1265 Main St., raising concerns about the building’s height and its potential impact on the surrounding community. 

However, the council took no action, noting that the permit request will be reviewed in future meetings.

The council also addressed an amendment to Chapter 17 of the general ordinance concerning parking on private ways. A motion to table the amendment was made, as the city solicitor recommended creating a new ordinance to ensure proper Fire Department access. 

Mayor Jeannette A. McCarthy highlighted the challenges of regulating private ways and suggested involving the Traffic Commission and police chief to address the matter.

The council will revisit the matter in future meetings.The full April 28 City Council meeting can be seen here.