As communities across Alaska try to figure out how to handle the new legalized marijuana industry, many are opting out.

In October, North Pole voters decided not to allow commercial marijuana businesses within city limits.

That decision, however, has been met with disappointment from one of the city’s most famous residents: Santa Claus.

Santa Claus, formerly known as Thomas O’Connor, legally changed his name to Santa in 2005. He says the moniker helps with his work as a child advocate.

Santa Claus speaks out against North Pole ban of marijuana sales