The Columbian / Associated Press

Seattle mayor looks to expand potential sites for pot shops

SEATTLE — The number of marijuana dispensaries in Seattle could grow significantly under a new proposal by Mayor Ed Murray.

The Seattle Times reports that the mayor is looking to decrease the required distance between marijuana businesses and places like child-care centers, libraries and public parks. Murray’s proposal calls for the distance to be reduced from 1,000 feet to 500 feet. His plan would add 1,650 acres throughout the city available for pot stores.

Murray said in a statement that there must be an even distribution of stores so that medical patients can access the marijuana they need.

Murray’s proposal would keep the 1,000-foot distance between marijuana businesses and schools and playgrounds.

The City Council is scheduled to discuss Murray’s plan at a Dec. 1 public hearing.