Pubdate: Wed, 25 Aug 2010 Source: Appeal-Democrat (Marysville, CA) Copyright: 2010 Appeal-Democrat Contact: http://www.appeal-democrat.com/sections/services/forms/editorletter.php Website: http://www.appeal-democrat.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1343 Author: Nancy Pasternack TEMPORARY POT LAW OK'D IN WHEATLAND Wheatland's zoning laws have to play catch-up with legislation regarding medical marijuana dispensaries, city officials said Tuesday when explaining the need for an interim ordinance. The historic burg of 3,000 is the latest municipality among dozens in the state that have sought to severely restrict or ban medical marijuana dispensaries from operating within its limits. The Wheatland City Council voted 4-0 in favor of instituting a 45-day temporary law, which went into effect immediately, and which prohibits the establishment of medical marijuana dispensaries during that time. "This gives us a breath and allows us to step back," said Tim Raney, the city's community development director. A more permanent measure is expected to get a public hearing within the month and go before the council for a vote afterward. "We have a blank spot in the ordinance," said Councilman David Coe of the city's zoning rules, which predate California Proposition 215, otherwise known as the Compassionate Use Act of 1996. The voter initiative, which went into effect in November of that year, allows patients with a valid doctor's recommendation, to possess and cultivate marijuana for personal medical use. Cities, including Marysville, have argued that the law does not offer clear direction regarding medical marijuana dispensaries. "I don't know why we need a special ordinance for this drug," Benjamin Bartholomew told the council Tuesday. Bartholomew writes for his parents' community newsletter, the Wheatland Citizen. "We have a dozen-plus alcohol dispensaries. Most of our problems are alcohol-related and not pot-related, seems to me," he said. "There are differences," countered Mayor Enita Elphick. "Alcohol is not illegal federally or in the state." Wheatland now has 30 days to hold a public hearing regarding a permanent ordinance to forbid operation of any medical marijuana dispensary within its boundaries. - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D