It happens every time a controversial topic comes up – people complain there wasn’t enough public consultation, no matter how much engagement there was. It wasn’t long ago there was significant uproar about the Glenbow Ranch Area Structure Plan, despite an extensive round of open houses. Now, the County is asking for your input on establishing cannabis rules, which will undoubtedly be a hot button issue. Yet, at the July 5 open house RVC hosted to gather public input in order to develop cannabis regulations for businesses and consumptions sites, only about a dozen residents showed up. This was your chance to have your questions and concerns considered, but only 12 people could manage to get themselves to the event? That is far too few. Like it or not, the sale and consumption of cannabis will be made legal in Canada Oct. 17. The federal and provincial governments have already worked out legislation and regulations, which stipulate how cannabis can be grown, who can consume it and where it can be consumed, as well as introduced stricter penalties for impaired driving. No matter where you stand on the issue, how rules are developed will impact you. The County has extended this opportunity for public opinion until July 30, and will make the information presented at the open house available online. So, please, get involved now – instead of complaining after the fact that no one asked you. Visit rockyview.ca for more information or email questions or comments to [email protected]
