BELLINGHAM -The City Council voted 6-0 on Monday, Aug. 12, to allow recreational marijuana businesses to operate in industrial districts, with retail stores allowed in industrial and commercial zones. Council member Jack Weiss was absent.

The emergency ordinance, which goes into effect immediately, lifts a controversial moratorium on marijuana businesses and gives cannabis entrepreneurs time to prepare applications for state licenses. The state Liquor Control Board is accepting applications for 30 days beginning on Sept. 16.