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.
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D