A measure that would have brought medical and recreational marijuana to Sisters was shot down by voters.

Sisters voters rejected ballot measure 9-122, which would have allowed licensed recreational and medical operations to operate in the city. In a surprising twist, ballot measure 9-123, which would tax recreational marijuana sales, has seen overwhelming support. However, Sisters Mayor Chuck Ryan said the second measure is moot after voters rejected measure 9-122.

Ryan said he was surprised by the vote, but added that Sisters wanted to let voters weigh in on the controversial industry before bringing it to Sisters.

“The majority feels that we shouldn’t legalize this business,” Ryan said Tuesday.

After Measure 91 passed in 2014, Sisters opted not to allow medical or recreational marijuana sales or production within the city limits. Ryan said the city imposed license requirements that prohibit businesses that violate local, state or federal laws.

The City Council voted to bring the issue to voters in July and set up restrictions that would govern where in the city marijuana-related businesses could open. The restrictions would create distance requirements between dispensaries and would prohibit dispensaries from fronting on Cascade Avenue.

Ryan said the city could enact those restrictions in case of a change in federal law or put them on the shelf until later.

“Our whole licensing (process) is based on federal law,” Ryan said.

— Reporter: 541-617-7818, shamway@bendbulletin.com