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Vernon  

High number of pot shops

Seven applications to open pot shops will come before Vernon city council on Monday.

City staff has recommended “council provide a positive recommendation to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch" regarding the non-medical cannabis retail store applications.

But even if the city does endorse the pot shops, that doesn't mean marijuana stores will be popping up like flowers in springtime.

Coun. Dalvir Nahal says if the city endorses the proposed facilities, it will then go back to the province for final approval.

“There is no guarantee if we say yes to them that the province will give them a licence,” said Nahal. “It is ultimately up to the province.”

Nahal says the city considers applications based on bylaws, zoning and other criteria, but only the province can actually approve a licence.

There are a few storefronts currently selling marijuana in the city, but if they apply for a licence, the fact they were operating without a permit will be in the city report to the province, and Nahal says that will likely not bode well for the applicant.

Nahal said she has not received “one single email” against the proposed marijuana shops.

The two-term councillor says the city and province is in uncharted territory.

“I do feel we are a little behind on this, but I also understand this is completely new for every municipality, so it does take time to figure it all out,” she said.

The city has received a total of 15 applications seeking city endorsement.



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