Council Update – October 10, 2017

We had a very light agenda at this week’s Council meeting as we did not have much before us that was not already discussed at last week’s General Committee meeting (items such a the JOC Audit see – http://www.mrakas.ca/general-committee-update-october-3-2017/ for more info if you missed the last week’s update.). One new matter before us was a motion from the Mayor to have staff investigate an “opt out” clause for marijuana stores. I found the motion to be a bit puzzling given that, while the Province has said they will be looking to open stores this summer, they have yet to create the legislation or confirm details with regards to provisions within the proposed legislation including an “opt out” clause. It seems to me that it would make more sense for us to wait for the Province to pass the legislation, for staff to review it and consider the implications of it for our municipality and then report to Council on options. Many members of Council had the same issue with the motion and asked the Mayor why this was being brought forward now; what would it achieve? It seems to be a bit of a cart before the horse kind of motion. Staff generally review and provide a report on any legislation that would have an impact on the municipality so it’s unclear why we would need a motion to ask staff to do what they would do anyway – especially in advance of any legislation being actually passed. Seems a bit pointless. In any event, Council will have an opportunity to have a fulsome discussion on licensed marijuana stores once the Province does decide how the legislation will be rolled out… more to come on this!!.