Pubdate: Thu, 28 Jun 2012
Source: Sky-Hi Daily News (CO)
Copyright: 2012 Swift Communications, Inc.
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Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/5078
Author: Kristen Lodge

FRASER BOARD OPENS DOOR TO MEDICAL MARIJUANA SHOPS

FRASER - Trustees passed an ordinance Wednesday night, June 27, to 
allow licensing and operation for medical marijuana businesses within 
town limits.

In a special election on Nov. 2, 2010, voters were asked whether the 
town should prohibit medical marijuana businesses. The ballot 
question was defeated.

In discussions before the vote, Trustee Eileen Waldow reminded fellow 
trustees that the voters asked town officials not to restrict medical 
marijuana businesses.

Both the Alco and Safeway shopping centers prohibit marijuana 
businesses, said Mayor Peggy Smith.

Trustee Cheri Sanders said she doesn't want medical marijuana 
businesses in Fraser at all.

"I don't believe that a dispensary should go in a residential 
district even though it's zoned business," Sanders said.

Philip Naill made the motion to approve licensing with amended 
distance between dispensaries to be 500 feet. The ordinance passed on 
a 5-2 vote with Smith and Sanders dissenting.

The application fee for a new medical marijuana business license is 
$5,000 plus reimbursement of any additional fees or expenses incurred 
by the town. And, an annual license fee for a medical marijuana 
center is $5,000 plus reimbursement of any additional fees or 
expenses incurred by the town.

Medical marijuana businesses can only be located on a property zoned 
in a business district. The business must be 1,000 feet away from an 
educational institution or school, either public or private; and 500 
feet from an existing medical marijuana business. Additionally, it 
must be 200 feet from any existing licensed child care facility.

The town of Fraser will collect a 5 percent tax on all sales.

To obtain a license submit an application to the town clerk. The 
application will be reviewed by the town clerk, police department, 
town manager, and the planning and building department. Applications 
will be available at Fraser Town Hall starting July 2. Applicants 
also must apply through the state.

Medical marijuana card-holders and their caregivers are governed 
under separate state laws.

Byers Peak annexation

In other business, Byers Peak Ranch annexation discussions will 
continue to move forward.

"For the amount of effort put forth I am frustrated with lack of 
progress as far as the town is concerned," Sanders said.

"I'm willing to move forward if we can make some progress."

All trustees were in favor to keep moving forward with negotiations.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom