Pubdate: Thu, 26 May 2005
Source: Union, The (CA)
Copyright: 2005 Nevada County Publishing Company
Contact:  http://www.theunion.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/957
Author: David Bunker
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?115 (Cannabis - California)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal)

TRUCKEE TO REGULATE POT SHOPS

TRUCKEE - Prospective medical marijuana shop owners and their customers will
be waiting to inhale for at least 45 days until the Truckee Town Council
develops zoning regulations for such establishments.

Last week, council members voted to prohibit medical marijuana shops in town
for 45 days. The prohibition, which follows a string of inquiries about
locating a cannabis club in town, will also give residents a chance to voice
their opinions on medical marijuana shops in Truckee before a decision is
made, said Town Manager Tony Lashbrook.

"What we are trying to do is call a time-out so we can have a typical
Truckee process," Lashbrook said.

The concern over unregulated marijuana shops is faced by cities across the
state. While many have specific codes addressing unconventional uses,
medical marijuana shops were not seen as a potential commercial use when
guidelines were finalized.

The council's unanimous vote on the moratorium belied a lengthy discussion
that signaled the council members' varied views on medical marijuana issues.

Councilwoman Beth Ingalls said that the temporary moratoriums have often
morphed into long-term prohibitions on medical marijuana shops in other
cities.

But Councilman Richard Anderson said that Truckee must be aware of the
problems that have sprung up around marijuana shops in other towns.

A change to the development code to add regulations for marijuana shops
would take more than 45 days, Councilman Josh Susman pointed out. The issue
would have to be reviewed by the planning commission, the town council and
then become part of the code after a 30-day waiting period.

In the end, the council agreed an in-depth discussion of other issues
surrounding medical marijuana and its place in Truckee would be discussed at
a later meeting. 
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MAP posted-by: Josh