A new version of a previously defeated bylaw regarding whether cannabis retail stores are a discretionary or permitted use has been brought back in front of Olds council.
The new bylaw passed its first reading. A public hearing about it is now set for Oct. 22 in the council chambers. If it's fully approved, this means that retail cannabis stores will be able to be open in Olds not too long after legalization happens on Oct. 17.
Permitted use allows town staff to make approvals themselves. The development office can approve an application as long as the applicant meets all regulations and requirements for that specific use.
However, if it's a discretionary use, that application has to go directly to the Municipal Planning Commission (MPC) for approval.
There was discussion among council about the benefits of making this a discretionary use or permitted use.
“Why wouldn’t we just use permitted if it’s legal and they’re licensed by the province?” Coun. Debbie Bennett asked.
Mayor Michael Muzychka spoke in favour of the discretionary use designation.
He said that would give the town a chance to receive public input to this new and growing industry.
“My vote last time was for the discretionary uses. The reason being that it’s still a brand new and contentious law that a lot of the population are not happy with," he said.
“I’m for it being discretionary use because that gives us an added layer of public input and I’m always open to hearing what the public has to say,” he added.
