Pubdate: Thu, 25 Nov 2010 Source: Milford Times (MI) Copyright: 2010 Observer & Eccentric Newspapers Contact: http://www.hometownlife.com/section/CUSTOMERSERVICE2002 Website: http://www.milfordtimes.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5217 Author: Aileen Wingblad Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/topic/Michigan+medical+marijuana DRUG MORATORIUM EXTENDED IN MILFORD TOWNSHIP VOTE A moratorium on activities related to medical marijuana has been extended by Milford Township officials. The township board of trustees voted Nov. 17 to continue the moratorium on growing, smoking and dispensing, to allow more time to gather input from legal counsel and others before determining under what zoning classification those activities will be permitted. Two days earlier, Village of Milford officials cited the same reasons for extending a similar moratorium for the area within the village limits. Michigan voters approved the medical marijuana law in 2008. While the law allows for the sale, use and distribution of medical marijuana for qualified people, it's up to each municipality to decide where those activities are allowed. The township initially established a six-month moratorium last May. The extension was needed to "further study and review" the issue, said township attorney Jennifer Elowsky. Elowsky participates in a group of attorneys looking into the medical marijuana law and possible solutions to the challenges municipalities now face because of it. She said she's hoping for direction from the federal level to assist in the process. Since the moratorium was put in place, the township planning commission has addressed the issue among its members as well as with Elowsky and township planner Nick Lomako. It's up to the planning commission to come up with a recommendation to be considered for approval. The township board will make the final decision. "We're still in the planning mode," said Don Green, township supervisor. "What fits best for us? That's the question." - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake