In Monroe, cannabis sales are currently illegal due to a ban enacted in 2015, but cannabis company Origins is advocating for the city council to lift this prohibition. Polling data indicates that 63% of Monroe residents favor allowing cannabis retailers, with 59% open to having a store in the city. Despite this public support, the city council voted 5-1 against a public vote on the issue, citing safety and constitutional concerns. Origins' leadership argues that these concerns are unfounded and plans to initiate a citizen-led campaign to overturn the ban. The potential economic impact of cannabis sales is significant, with Origins projecting $5.

4 million in revenue in its first year. City staff estimate that cannabis stores could generate around $50,000 annually for Monroe, which could help address budget deficits in local departments. However, council members express fears of increased crime, noting that cannabis retailers can be targets for robberies. The article emphasizes the ongoing tension between public opinion and city governance in Monroe.