Pubdate: Thu, 09 Jan 2014
Source: Oliver Chronicle (CN BC)
Copyright: 2014 Oliver Chronicle
Contact:  http://www.oliverchronicle.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/875
Author: Lyonel Doherty

MEDICAL MARIJUANA FACILITY COMING TO RIDING

Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson said a medicinal marijuana 
growing facility coming to her riding this spring will employ about 24 people.

Larson revealed this information at a recent regional district board 
meeting in Penticton, where she joined fellow MLA Dan Ashton in 
discussing various issues. These included the Penticton Regional 
Hospital patient centre tower, the impact of BC Hydro rate increases, 
water sustainability, highway signage enforcement, and the continued 
role of the Agricultural Land Commission.

Larson wouldn't say where the marijuana facility will be located, but 
noted it will be very isolated, with security cameras and barbed wire fencing.

"I can tell you it complies with all the federal rules and 
regulations. It is not in anyone's backyard and will not give off any 
odours or cause any offence," Larson told the Chronicle.

But Area D director Tom Siddon told the board that some residents in 
Okanagan Falls are complaining about the smell emanating from a 
marijuana growing facility near that community.

These facilities come under amended Federal rules governing medicinal 
marijuana growing operations.

One businessman contacted the Town of Oliver last year to enquire if 
its bylaws would allow such a facility here.

Municipal Manager Tom Szalay said there is no municipal bylaw that 
would prohibit such a facility in Oliver. However, it would have to 
be located where permitted in the zoning bylaw, he pointed out.

Szalay noted such a facility would be expected to fit best in the 
industrial area.

Councillor Dave Mattes said he supports any way of reducing the harm 
that comes from the criminalization of marijuana.

He noted that his decision on any marijuana-growing proposal in 
Oliver will be based on the merits of the application.

Councillor Larry Schwartzenberger said any facility in Oliver would 
be a legal business operation that would have to comply with the 
Town's zoning bylaws.

"As with any other application, it should be evaluated on its merits."

Mayor Ron Hovanes could not be reached for comment.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom