Council approves regulations for public cannabis use in Leduc
Leduc City Council approved amendments to the Community Standards Bylaw addressing the public use of cannabis during their June 25 regular council meeting.
Amendments will make public use of cannabis similar to rules governing public consumption of alcohol. Smoking and vaping cannabis will be prohibited in public places, which are defined in the bylaw as any property, publically or privately owned, that the public may have access to. Cannabis consumption will be permitted in private residences.
“Council made the decision to take a conservative approach with cannabis legalization as it relates to public use,” says Leduc Mayor Bob Young. “This affords the opportunity for the city to develop a public education campaign so our community is well aware in advance of October 17 when legalization of recreational cannabis becomes law.”
The approved amendments take into consideration feedback collected from a survey of local businesses and residents that happened in early 2018 as well as commentary gathered during the bylaw’s public hearing process. The amendments are also mindful of recommendations put forward by Alberta Health Services.
“We’ve chosen to take a cautious approach to the public use of cannabis,” says Cameron Chisholm, manager of RCMP Administration and Enforcement Services. “This will allow us to monitor and evaluate the bylaw to determine how it’s working for our community.”
The City of Leduc’s approach to managing public consumption of cannabis has been developed to best suit the community while working within requirements set out by federal and provincial regulations. More information regarding the City of Leduc’s approach to cannabis legalization can be found at Leduc.ca/cannabis.
— 30 —
Leduc is a growing, dynamic city in the heart of Canada’s economic engine and conveniently located at the crossroads of air, highway and rail transportation. The City of Leduc is a centre of innovation, entrepreneurship and quality of life. As a regional leader, the city, together with other municipalities in the area, plays a key role in protecting the integrity of the Edmonton International Airport (EIA) and leading economic development in the region, including Aerotropolis. For information on non-emergency city services and programs, visit www.leduc.ca or follow us on Twitter @cityofleduc.
MEDIA CONTACT
Nikki Booth, Corporate Communications
780-340-7483
nbooth@leduc.ca