BYLAW TO CONTROL SALE OF HYDROPONIC EQUIPMENT ATTRACTS ATTENTION

CHILLIWACK - When Chilliwack introduced a plan to control the sale of
hydroponic equipment, as an obstacle for drug producers, they
expected to attract attention from other communities.

Coun. Sharon Gaetz, who chairs the city's public safety advisory
committee, said the proposed bylaw has been attracting attention from
national newspapers and broadcasters.

Gaetz has already been interviewed a number of times about this
latest weapon in the city's war on illegal narcotics production. The
bylaw will require businesses selling hydroponic equipment to obtain
a $1,000-per -year licence as well as their regular business licence.
They must also maintain a register of the sale of the items they can
show police. As well, buyers are to show picture I.D. and proof of residence.

Some are questioning the bylaw, most notably the B.C. Hydroponic
Merchants Association, which is considering court action to defend
the rights of legitimate hydroponic merchants.