Pubdate: Fri, 25 Feb 2011 Source: Abbotsford Times (CN BC) Copyright: 2011 The Abbotsford Times Contact: http://www.abbotsfordtimes.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1009 MISSION'S POT BYLAW ON HOLD The District of Mission's controversial public safety inspection team (PSIT) scheme was put on hold at a council meeting this week. PSIT grew out of the district's Controlled Substance Property bylaw, which has been criticized as undemocratic by many residents and attacked by the B.C. Civil Liberties Association. In a press release on Tuesday, the district announced council voted to uphold the current postponement until May, when the enabling bylaws to allow PSIT should be enacted. Under the suspended bylaw, homeowners who had their homes searched for marijuana grow ops were charged fess and given repair orders costing up to $10,000 by the district -- even when no illegal drugs were found. The district could wind up defending a costly class action launched by angry homeowners who have been fined despite their innocence. The district also announced on Tuesday it has hired a public relations firm to help staff deal with a public education and information program. - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake