NO POT SHOP IN ELK GROVE

Re "Panel votes to open door to medicinal pot shops," March 27: I am vehemently opposed to the location of any medicinal marijuana dispensary within the city of Elk Grove.  As with juice bars and adult bookstores, the recommendations put forth by the commission have one purpose: to establish stringent, consistent requirements that can be applied on objectionable, but legal, industries.  Had the commission failed to recommend appropriate zoning conditions for these facilities, it would have created an even greater threat to public safety.

Absent proper zoning, a marijuana facility could be built next to schools, churches or coffee houses.

Worse, retailers could lease space anywhere within the city limits from existing building owners without prior city approval.

By recommending zoning guidelines, the commission sought to provide the greatest possible protection to our community.  Unfortunately, state law allows/requires that medicinal marijuana dispensaries have a vested right to locate in cities such as Elk Grove.  This law should be changed to eliminate or restrict this threat to our community.

- - Tim Murphy, Elk Grove Planning Commissioner