Pubdate: Thu, 28 Jan 2016 Source: Press Democrat, The (Santa Rosa, CA) Copyright: 2016 The Press Democrat Contact: http://www.pressdemocrat.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/348 Author: Tawnie Logan SANTA ROSA POT RULES EDITOR: Regulated cannabis cultivation is good business for Sonoma County, and many elected officials are beginning to take notice. The Sonoma County Growers Alliance, representing the local cannabis industry, has been impressed by the Santa Rosa City Council, its staff, subcommittee and Planning Commission, which convened to help develop cannabis industry policies. All three factions unanimously affirmed the valuable contributions of the cannabis industry to the social and economic well-being of Santa Rosa, rejected a cultivation ban and recommended the development of a comprehensive ordinance for permitting cannabis businesses be drafted. By implementing local permitting consistent with the state's Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, Sonoma County localities can lead the way to set guidelines for best practices. As a result, cultivators and other cannabis businesses will have the opportunity to thrive, and the economy of Sonoma County will benefit. Over the past 15 years, Sonoma County has grown into a cannabis industry hub with national manufacturers of nutrients and ancillary products being developed in a progressive environment. These influential businesses are rooted here, employ our friends and neighbors and positively impact the economy. It is refreshing to see local elected officials take leadership, create regulations and guidelines for our industry, our safety and the environment. TAWNIE LOGAN Executive director, Sonoma County Growers Alliance - --- MAP posted-by: Matt