COUNTY SAYS NO TO DRUG TOOLS

Sales And Advertising Of Paraphernelia Restricted

Strathcona County has unanimously passed a bylaw that restricts the sale
and advertising of drug paraphernalia.

The alternation to the land use bylaw means retailers cannot sell drug
paraphernalia within 500 metres of a recreation centre, school, park, care
centre or religious assembly. No retailer can advertise or promote the sale
of drug paraphernalia, the illicit consumption of controlled substances or
any instruments for illegal drug use.

Existing retailers, however, can still sell drug paraphernalia, but will
need to follow advertising restrictions.

Retailers outside of the 500-metre range will be allowed to continue
selling the merchandise.

Mayor Cathy Olesen said the move to allow the paraphernalia in some areas
of Sherwood Park was a compromise with businesses.

Olesen said the Internet is a "dark hole" that the county has no control
over as far as advertising.

The bylaw was brought forward by Coun. Jason Gariepy and Coun. Peter
Wlodarczak in response to concerns that drug merchandise was being sold in
stores masquerading as convenience stores.

"From the beginning I have said that it is irresponsible for a retailer to
target and sell pipes and bongs to teenagers in our community," Garipey
said. "Selling pipes and bongs next to chocolate bars is like selling
pornography next to comic books - it's inappropriate and shows complete
disregard towards our community."

Federal laws state that pipes and bongs are not illegal in and of
themselves. Police must find residue of drugs.