Pubdate: Wed, 10 Dec 2008
Source: Contra Costa Times (CA)
Copyright: 2008 Knight Ridder
Contact:  http://www.contracostatimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/96
Author: Jonathan Lockett
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?115 (Cannabis - California)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/topic/Dispensaries (Dispensaries)

OAKLEY BANS MEDICAL MARIJUANA SALES

OAKLEY -- There is officially no place in east Contra Costa County 
for medical marijuana to be sold legally.

On Tuesday night, Oakley joined Pittsburg, Antioch and Brentwood in 
permanently prohibiting medical marijuana dispensaries after more 
than a year-long moratorium on the businesses.

The City Council voted unanimously without deliberation or opposition 
from the public.

City Attorney Alison Barratt-Green said banning the establishments 
would avoid negative impacts on the city such as an increase in 
crime, and use of marijuana by minors and those without medical need.

Although most medical marijuana businesses have private security, 
Barratt-Green said there still would be a risk to the residents of Oakley.

"(Private security) is a step in the right direction," Barratt-Green 
said, "but it still doesn't address all of the negative effects of 
the businesses."

Oakley also welcomed Jim Frazier to the City Council, and recognized 
Brad Nix for his 10 years with the council.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom