Pubdate: Wed, 14 Jul 2010
Source: Journal Advocate, The (Sterling, CO)
Copyright: 2010 MediaNews Group, Inc.
Contact:  http://www.journal-advocate.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/4033
Author: Judy Debus
Bookmark: http://mapinc.org/topic/Dispensaries

TOWNS TAKE ACTION ON MED. MARIJUANA

Merino, Peetz Ban Dispensaries

Two of the smaller incorporated small communities in Logan County 
addressed the issue of medical marijuana dispensaries in their towns 
at their regular business meetings on Monday of this week. They are 
the first incorporated towns in Logan County to do so since the 
county passed a resolution to ban dispensaries within the 
unincorporated areas of the county two weeks ago. The county 
resolution did not cover those towns in the county that have their 
own government structure.

The Merino Town Board met on Monday evening and passed an ordinance 
to prohibit medical marijuana dispensaries within the incorporated 
limits of the town and to cover any area annexed to the town in the future.

In other business that came before the Merino board on Monday was a 
request from Adam Withers to clarify the water tap and sewer costs on 
some property he has purchased in the town and also the cost of 
putting a water tap into a location that has not formerly had one. He 
was told that the cost for a water tap is $1,600 and for a sewer is 
an additional $1,600. There is also a $15 debt service fee that is 
retroactive to April of 2002.

Chairman Felix Urrutia explained that some grant money will pay for 
the new systems the town has to put in at a cost of $4.6 million 
(water and water treatment); however, the town will also have a cost 
of $1.4 million that they will have to cover. The fees and an 
increase in rates are necessary to meet that indebtedness.

Ted Pickett reported on an area that might be purchased to find a new 
water source for the town. A water test will have to be done before 
it can be considered. Debi Metheny, town clerk, will coordinate the testing.

The board approved a request from Rick Baily on behalf of Viaero 
Wireless to construct a self-supporting communications tower in the 
community to offer better coverage in the area. The tower will be 
approximately 20 to 30 feet tall.

The monthly testing of the tornado warning will take place on the 
first Monday of the month at 11:45 a.m.

Also on the agenda and approved by the board was an ordinance 
outlining the procedures and fees to apply for a license to do 
business in town.

The board heard other reports on the pavilion roof repairs needed; 
the light on the Town Hall; an update on road grading; and tree 
maintenance in town.

They also discussed the purchase of a $5,400 spraying machine for 
mosquito spraying in town and the costs involved as opposed to 
contracting to have it done.

Ted Pickett, representing the Buffalo Foundation, requested the 
consideration of a lower fee for the water at the old elementary 
school while they are in the process of getting a tenant for it, so 
they can keep the water on and continue to water the grassy areas and 
the park. The board approved the reduction of the rate to match that 
of other non-profit commercial locations with the stipulation the 
issue would be revisited if and when changes take place.

The Peetz Town Council also addressed the medical marijuana 
dispensary issue at their regular meeting on Monday night and passed 
a resolution to ban them from locating in the incorporated area of 
the town of Peetz.

In other business, the council adjusted the applications for building 
permits to include commercial/businesses with a cost of one percent 
of the total cost of construction.

Discussion was held on considerations for the new budget to include 
new requirements of contacting town hall for the gravel and ground-up 
asphalt the town has available and also the possibility of charging a 
fee for swimming pools due to water usage.

Also discussed was the feasibility of purchasing a new tractor for 
town use. No decision was made.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom