Pubdate: Tue, 14 Jan 2014
Source: Nanaimo Daily News (CN BC)
Section: Front Page
Copyright: 2014 Nanaimo Daily News
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/nanaimodailynews/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1608
Author: Spencer Anderson

ZONING SHIFT TO NIX MEDICAL MARIJUANA OPERATIONS

Nanaimo council has voted in support of a zoning amendment to bar
medical marijuana production in areas zoned for industrial use,
sending the issue to a public hearing sometime in next few weeks.

However, Coun. Bill McKay voted against first and second reading of
the zoning amendment bylaw. He said he is concerned that medical
marijuana production could potentially shift away from industrial to
agricultural areas in the city, which is currently allowed under
provincial regulations.

The vote, which took place at last night's council meeting, will not
affect a proposed new facility at 1100 Maughan Rd. At Duke Point,
which has already received support from council.

Should the zoning amendment pass final reading, city manager Ted
Swabey said that will mean council will be able to consider other
marijuana production facilities on a case-by-case basis.

The motion was brought to council by city staff to head off what city
officials have described as a potential threat to Nanaimo's industrial
tax base.

Previously, the city had designated lands zoned for industry as the
appropriate areas for medical marijuana production. However, marijuana
production has been designated by the province as an agricultural
activity, meaning that producers could theoretically apply for farm
status and pay lower property taxes, spurring the city to change its
policy.

McKay said medical marijuana production is an industrial-type activity
that is different from regular agricultural activity. He cited
security concerns as one example, adding that such facilities are
targeted for break ins.

"Marijuana is not like tomatoes and raspberries," he said. "It's a
very special (project)."  
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D