On April 3, we attended a Board of Selectmen (BOS) cannabis dispensary forum for the purpose of gathering input on whether to allow the sales and cultivation of cannabis in Guilford. We were shocked to see such a small turnout on this important issue. However, the exchange was healthy in that it was civil and well-balanced and put much-needed information into our hands. Kudos, BOS.

A strong, well-informed advocate presented his thoughts on why a facility should be allowed. His basic arguments were that these are safe, secure, and well-controlled facilities and the reality is that sales and use are legal in this state. He then tried to paint a vision that Guilford should fully embrace this and become a shining example for the rest of the state with respect to recreational sales and local cultivation.

Back in the ’80s and ’90s, when we were raising our two sons, we were always worried about drugs, as was the community in general. We constantly preached “don’t do drugs” and tried to be ever vigilant on this. There was never a gray area, and the message was always clear. Thankfully, for our boys and the community, it seemed to work.

In light of the current fentanyl tragedy killing young people across the US, do parents and the community dare send a new message in support of recreational drug use? Do not succumb to apathy! We are on a slippery slope, and it’s time to dig in our heels! Politicians make laws, but your children will always look to you for their moral compass. Perception matters!

We support a referendum so that the entire community can have a voice on this important topic. Please speak out!

Michael Mennone

Guilford