RICHMOND COUNCIL APPROVES AMENDED GROW-OP BYLAW FOR LANDLORDS

Richmond gave preliminary approval last night to an amended pot grow-op
bylaw, which will hit landlords in the pocket book.

The bylaw, which is scheduled to go into effect July 1, charges landlords
fees for firefighters, police, city staff, building inspections and
re-occupancy permits. The city may also discontinue providing water service.

"The bylaw serves to make landlords acutely aware of their responsibilities
to periodically check their properties," wrote community bylaw manager Don
Pearson in a report to council.

Last year, Richmond RCMP executed 64 warrants and had 187 active probes into
grow-ops.

Richmond's amended bylaw provides an appeal process to council for landlords
who have been assessed fees.