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City struggling without provincial regulations around cannabis legalization

Dec 19, 2017 | 3:25 PM

 

MEDICINE HAT, AB — Mayor Ted Clugston said the city is trying to be proactive ahead of the impending legalization of cannabis, but admits there is a struggle without provincial legislation in place.

Clugston spoke after the council meeting Monday night and said city staff are trying to work ahead while keeping next summer in their sights, but knows there are still numerous unknowns.

“We’re actively working with the other municipalities but we’re anxiously awaiting the regulations,” he said. “What are the rules on the retail side? And then, of course, on the enforcement side. It’s also going to be very difficult.”

The Development and Infrastructure committee is expected to meet on Wednesday to discuss the municipal response to the legalization.

The briefing note in the online agenda highlights several keys areas which will need to be discussed before the legislation, including the intensity of odour and second hand smoke.

The committee will also look for feedback around land use and zoning and public consumption.

Clugston knows the issues go even deeper.

“Alcohol is legal but you can’t have a two-six of vodka before you come to work,” he said. “And so [when] marijuana is legal, […] what’s an appropriate amount before for you to come to work? Especially in high risk situations, where you’re working with heavy equipment and those kinds of things?”

Clugston said he’s been working closely with his fellow mid-sized city mayors who have also been in talks with American mayors, trying to learn from the mistakes they faced when marijuana was first legalized south of the border.

“The myriad of things that have to be worked out is really quite daunting,” he added.