Pubdate: Thu, 14 Feb 2008 Source: Desert Sun, The (Palm Springs, CA) Copyright: 2008 The Desert Sun Contact: http://local2.thedesertsun.com/mailer/opinionwrap.php Website: http://www.thedesertsun.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1112 Note: Does not accept LTEs from outside circulation area. Author: Xochitl Pena, The Desert Sun Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?115 (Cannabis - California) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal) INDIO COMMISSION BACKS BAN ON DISPENSARIES Indio soon might join the ranks of Palm Desert, Indian Wells and La Quinta in limiting medical marijuana dispensaries. The Indio Planning Commission on Wednesday, with no opposition, recommended an ordinance to the City Council that would prohibit marijuana dispensaries within all zoning districts. While the city in recent months has been approached by parties interested in opening medical marijuana outlets in Indio, the city does not have standards relating to the location, operation and concentration of dispensaries. And the difference between state and federal law adds to the uncertainty. "We have conflict," said Omar Sandoval, assistant city attorney. Federal law bans all sale and use of marijuana while California state law allows medical use for patients with a doctor's letter of recommendation. Steve Copenhaver, community development director with the city, said the new ordinance will "make it very clear" where the city stands on marijuana dispensaries. The ordinance could go before the council for approval sometime in March. - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom