Pubdate: Wed, 12 Feb 2014
Source: Strathmore Standard (CN AB)
Copyright: 2014 Strathmore Standard
Contact: http://www.strathmorestandard.com/letters
Website: http://www.strathmorestandard.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3322
Author: Lola Adeniran

CHANGES TO MEDICAL MARIJUANA AND THE LAND USE BYLAW

With Health Canada's recent approval of allowing for people to apply
to license to produce medical marijuana town council and
administration are looking into the implications on the town's land
use bylaws.

At the Feb 5 town council meeting. Councillor Bob Sobol pointed out
that within the town's land use bylaw currently there is nothing to
define what medical marijuana actually is,the use of the land and regulation.

Sobol asked that council provide direction to administration to
research and prepare a report to council on all aspects including land
use requirements of a medical marijuana facility.

"I think we should keep an open mind on this. This is very strictly
regulated and it's not going to be an open house greenhouse in the
country...there is very strict control on this, and the heavy security
that comes with it from Health Canada ," said Councillor Rocky Blokland.

Recently, in Smith Falls, Ontario Health Canada approved a health
facility in the town. The appeal is that the facility brings capital
to the town and creates jobs.

"Interestingly enough, the mayor and town strongly endorse this
initiative...it would bring increased employment into town and spin off
financial diversity...if it ever crosses our plate we should strongly
have a good look at this," said Blokland.

"Colorado and Washington have had considerable experience in
legalizing medical marijuana and they have very mixed experiences in
such that we can learn from them. I would encourage in the research
that we utilize those databases," said Deputy Mayor Denise Peterson.

Council gave administration direction on gathering information needed
for the impact the issue may have on the land use bylaws. 
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D