Pubdate: Sat, 10 Mar 2007
Source: Cowichan News Leader (CN BC)
Copyright: 2007 Cowichan News Leader
Contact:  http://www.cowichannewsleader.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1314
Author: Carol-Ann Rolls,  Manager of Community Policing and Crime
Prevention Programs.

GROW BYLAW GOOD FOR COMMUNITY

The Point of North Cowichan's Controlled Substance Bylaw Has Been Lost.

The Cowichan Community Policing Society asked local government to 
consider such a bylaw. They did it in response to the increasing 
number of grow operations, the dangers to and costs incurred with the 
discovery and dismantling of such operations and the decline in 
property values for those neighbouring a grow operation.

The bylaw is not an increased mandate for the police at the expense 
of tenant and landowners. It is a tool that helps safeguard 
residents, neighbours and future tenants. Several other jurisdictions 
have enacted similar bylaws and have found the incidents of grow 
operations have declined. Tenant rights are already protected under 
provincial legislation and none of the jurisdictions have reported an 
increase in tenant complaints.

This bylaw places some onus back on the landlords and/or property 
managers for public safety by ensuring that if the building has been 
used for a grow operation, they report it to the appropriate 
authority, have the building properly cleaned and disinfected and 
certified for reoccupancy. Costs for dismantling and cleanup may be 
the responsibility of the owner instead of the taxpayer.

Contrary to March 4 opinion writer Jason Youmans, marijuana is not 
just a police matter. It is a community matter. Congratulations to 
North Cowichan for stepping up. All councils were first approached in 
2005. The idea was reported in local papers and residents had 
opportunities for input.

Training is available for landlords and property managers. The 
Residential Tenancy Act outlines duties and responsibilities of both 
the landlord and tenant. Take the time to read the bylaw on North 
Cowichan's website. The more informed we are, the more empowered we 
become for our own safety and involvement in our community.
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MAP posted-by: Elaine