HAMBURG, N.Y. — The town of Hamburg will allow marijuana dispensaries.

In a 3-2 vote Monday night, the town board voted not to opt out and will also allow on-site consumption lounges in the town.       

The decision was made after board members had a lengthy discussion on the pros and cons of each scenario.

"The business is going somewhere," said councilman Shawn Connolly. "Our residents are going to be buying and using marijuana legally, regardless of what we decide tonight."

"At this time, I am in favor of opting out because of the time it provides us to be more mindful in approaching this topic and also to allow us to differentiate between on-site consumption and retail dispensaries," said councilwoman Elizabeth Farrell.

The surrounding villages of Blasdell, Hamburg and the town of Evans have yet to vote on the matter.

Municipalities across the state have the choice to opt out of the program but must do so by the end of the year.