Snohomish City Council votes to ban retail marijuana businesses

SNOHOMISH, Wash. -- The Snohomish City Council voted 4-3 Tuesday night to ban retail marijuana businesses.

The issue of marijuana retail stores grew to a head as dozens and dozens of people showed up to the City Council meeting -- and it took more than two hours for everyone to have their say.

"This is like a Pandora's Box and once we start down that slippery slope we are asking for nothing but trouble," one resident said.

Folks against the retail shops showed up in droves -- the meeting wasn’t just standing room only – it spilled out into the hallway.

Amy Buddie was only one of two people who spoke in support of the retail shops. "It was great to be part of the process but I'm very disappointed in the outcome."

Bob McGowan shared his own personal story battling drugs, citing marijuana as a gateway.

"I started smoking weed ... in 1967 and ended up overdosing on cocaine in the Central District when I was 18 years old," he said.

Ultimately the majority of citizens in attendance got their wish -- the City Council voted to keep retail stores outside of Snohomish city limits. But supporters say they will keep pressing for shops to be allowed in the city.

It’s an issue everyone has an opinion on – and we’d like to hear yours: Just sound off on our Q13 FOX News Facebook page.