The City of Vernon is not cracking down on marijuana dispensaries.
Council decided Monday not to investigate a zoning bylaw that would prohibit marijuana operations.
“I haven’t heard any complaints from the public,” said Coun. Juliette Cunningham.
“It’s federal jurisdiction and we are taking on enough downloading from the lack of action from other governments.”
Coun. Catherine Lord insists city staff are currently busy and don’t need to take on policing marijuana sales.
“Until we get more clarity from other levels of government, I don’t want us spending any more time on it,” she said.
However, Coun. Scott Anderson spoke in favour of zoning changes.
“We are allowing illegal things to be going on,” he said.
“It’s very relevant and not a waste of time to be aware of that.”
According to a staff report, there have not been any business licences issued for medical marijuana production facilities in the city.
“Business licences have not been issued for retail stores selling marijuana as such a use is illegal,” states the report.
Anderson attempted to have a letter sent to the federal government seeking clarity on medical marijuana, but he only got support from Coun. Dalvir Nahal.
“Should we be arresting people or leaving them alone? We need direction?” said Anderson.