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CITY COUNCIL TO REVISIT MEDICAL MARIJUANA

The Turlock City Council could put together a quick - but temporary - ordinance to keep medical marijuana distributors out of the city.

At its Tuesday night meeting, city staff will ask the council to adopt an emergency 45-day ordinance prohibiting the establishment of any medical marijuana dispensaries within city limits.

Staff is also requesting the council allow further study of the issue.  A long-term solution will require changing of zoning ordinances.

The request comes after Modesto's recent passage of a law prohibiting medical marijuana dispensaries.

Fresno, Rocklin, Concord, Susanville and Pasadena have passed similar ordinances.

Although there hasn't been a request to start a medical marijuana dispensary in Turlock, "there is a concern that Turlock's central and accessible location could make it attractive for such a business," read a document prepared by Planning Manager Michael Cooke for the council's agenda.

The fact that possession and distribution of marijuana, even for medical purposes, is illegal under the Federal Controlled Substances Act was another reason Cooke sited for the need for the ordinance and zoning changes.

He also wrote that Turlock Police Services officials are worried that "a marijuana dispensary has the potential to increase crime and violence in Turlock."

According to the document, Interim City Manager Tim Kerr recommended the council approve the staffs' requests.

The Turlock City Council meets a 7 p.m.  Tuesday night in the Yosemite Room at City Hall, 156 S.  Broadway, Turlock.