INDIO COMMISSION BACKS BAN ON DISPENSARIES

Indio soon might join the ranks of Palm Desert, Indian Wells and La
Quinta in limiting medical marijuana dispensaries.

The Indio Planning Commission on Wednesday, with no opposition,
recommended an ordinance to the City Council that would prohibit
marijuana dispensaries within all zoning districts.

While the city in recent months has been approached by parties
interested in opening medical marijuana outlets in Indio, the city
does not have standards relating to the location, operation and
concentration of dispensaries.

And the difference between state and federal law adds to the uncertainty.

"We have conflict," said Omar Sandoval, assistant city attorney.

Federal law bans all sale and use of marijuana while California state
law allows medical use for patients with a doctor's letter of recommendation.

Steve Copenhaver, community development director with the city, said
the new ordinance will "make it very clear" where the city stands on
marijuana dispensaries.

The ordinance could go before the council for approval sometime in March.