NORWICH — The City of Norwich common council will be holding a public forum in regard to proposed marijuana legislation tonight, October 19, at 6:30 p.m. at One Court Plaza.

Norwich residents are encouraged to attend the meeting, and will be given time to address council members and explain their views on the topic.

"Anyone can come and they'll be invited to speak on this specific topic and share their opinion, ultimately, and provide any feedback they have on the proposed legislation to the common council before a vote," Alderman Matthew Caldwell explained.

He also said he is expecting the council will hold their final vote during the common council meeting immediately following the public hearing.

"Considering the time frame, being that we are close to the end of the year, I'm guessing that's what will happen," said Caldwell. "I'm not positive, but I'm anticipating that to be the case."

Should the council vote in favor of the proposed legislation, marijuana dispensaries and on-site consumption establishments will become legal within the City of Norwich. This vote would be unable to be revoked in the future.

If they vote against the legislation, dispensaries and on-site consumption establishments will remain illegal. But, council members would be able to change their vote at any point going forward, thus legalizing these types of businesses.

"I really hope the public comes out to share their opinions. I think it's an important issue," said Caldwell. "They can change the future of our city forever, one way or the other. I know there's a lot of people that have expressed their opinions to me, and to other members of the council, and I think that's fantastic. But I really hope they come to the public hearing and get on the record and speak to the whole group, and share what they feel one way or the other."