Costa Mesa A temporary citywide ban on marijuana uses authorized under a state voter-approved recreational marijuana measure was extended for another 101/2 months to give city staffers time look for ways to implement the law.
Without much discussion Tuesday, the City Council approved the extension of the urgency ordinance with a 5-0 vote.
The initial 45-day ban was approved Jan. 3 and set to expire Feb. 17, according to a city staff report.
It will give the city time to develop permanent regulations, said Jay Trevino, a consultant with the development services department.
Under the prohibition, marijuana uses allowed under Proposition 64 such as the cultivation of more than six plants, outdoor cultivation and recreational marijuana businesses that do not conflict with a city-sponsored medical marijuana measure are illegal.
The cities of Santa Ana, San Clemente and Aliso Viejo have passed similar bans.
The state basically said that if you dont have something (ordinance) in place, then youve basically approved it and you have to go by that states rules, Councilman Jim Righeimer said.
Though marijuana for adults 21-years-old and older is legal in the state, Californians can still face penalties in some instances.
The citys marijuana ordinance, known as Measure X, sets aside an industrial zone north of the I-405 freeway and west of Harbor Boulevard for medical marijuana businesses.
After obtaining permits, the businesses will be able to manufacture, research, test, develop, distribute and transport medical marijuana products, along with paying an annual six percent tax. Retails sale are not allowed.
Were having to go through and hire outside consultants to figure out how do you tax it, how do you collect it, Righeimer said.
The council also approved a resolution to access the local and federal criminal histories of medical marijuana business applicants. Business owners and employees will be required to undergo criminal background checks prior to the business being issued a permit.
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker
Full Article: Costa Mesa Extends Marijuana Ban For Uses Allowed Under Proposition 64
Author: Louis Casiano Jr.
Contact: 714-796-7984
Photo Credit: H. Lorren Au Jr.
Website: The Orange County Register
