OAKLEY BANS MEDICAL MARIJUANA SALES

OAKLEY -- There is officially no place in east Contra Costa County
for medical marijuana to be sold legally.

On Tuesday night, Oakley joined Pittsburg, Antioch and Brentwood in
permanently prohibiting medical marijuana dispensaries after more
than a year-long moratorium on the businesses.

The City Council voted unanimously without deliberation or opposition
from the public.

City Attorney Alison Barratt-Green said banning the establishments
would avoid negative impacts on the city such as an increase in
crime, and use of marijuana by minors and those without medical need.

Although most medical marijuana businesses have private security,
Barratt-Green said there still would be a risk to the residents of Oakley.

"(Private security) is a step in the right direction," Barratt-Green
said, "but it still doesn't address all of the negative effects of
the businesses."

Oakley also welcomed Jim Frazier to the City Council, and recognized
Brad Nix for his 10 years with the council.