The East Peoria City Council took the first step to approve Roy Sorce's application to start up a craft cannabis growing operation off Route 116.
Sorce runs a family-owned food trucking and distribution company. He wants to begin a craft cannabis growing and infusing operation as part of his existing business.
He said starting this business fits with his philosophy of giving parolees a chance to start over.
"As a locally-owned business for a long time with roots in the community, we want to continue to provide jobs and apply for our hiring philosophy of second chances," he said.
Sorce currently employs about 20 people.
The council's 4-1 approval will open the way for Sorce to apply for a state license. It would need to be at least 1,000 feet away from Rogy's Daycare across the highway. Cannabis would not be sold on site.
