Pubdate: Mon, 05 Oct 2009 Source: Sherwood Park News (CN AB) Copyright: 2009 Osprey Media Contact: http://www.sherwoodparknews.com/feedback1/LetterToEditor.aspx Website: http://www.sherwoodparknews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1730 Author: Catherine Griwkowsky COUNTY SAYS NO TO DRUG TOOLS Sales And Advertising Of Paraphernelia Restricted Strathcona County has unanimously passed a bylaw that restricts the sale and advertising of drug paraphernalia. The alternation to the land use bylaw means retailers cannot sell drug paraphernalia within 500 metres of a recreation centre, school, park, care centre or religious assembly. No retailer can advertise or promote the sale of drug paraphernalia, the illicit consumption of controlled substances or any instruments for illegal drug use. Existing retailers, however, can still sell drug paraphernalia, but will need to follow advertising restrictions. Retailers outside of the 500-metre range will be allowed to continue selling the merchandise. Mayor Cathy Olesen said the move to allow the paraphernalia in some areas of Sherwood Park was a compromise with businesses. Olesen said the Internet is a "dark hole" that the county has no control over as far as advertising. The bylaw was brought forward by Coun. Jason Gariepy and Coun. Peter Wlodarczak in response to concerns that drug merchandise was being sold in stores masquerading as convenience stores. "From the beginning I have said that it is irresponsible for a retailer to target and sell pipes and bongs to teenagers in our community," Garipey said. "Selling pipes and bongs next to chocolate bars is like selling pornography next to comic books - it's inappropriate and shows complete disregard towards our community." Federal laws state that pipes and bongs are not illegal in and of themselves. Police must find residue of drugs. - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D