GROW-OP BYLAW UNDER ATTACK

A controversial bylaw that gives authorities in Mission the power to
fine homeowners for the cost of searching their properties for
marijuana grow-ops -- even if police find nothing -- is under attack
on two fronts.

A Mission municipal councillor is seeking to rescind the bylaw, and
74 residents have reportedly joined to file a class-action lawsuit
against the district.

Some Mission residents have complained that their homes were searched
for pot grow-ops and they were slapped with fees and repair orders
costing upward of $10,000 -- all on questionable evidence.

Coun. Jenny Stevens wants a motion to rescind the bylaw to be
considered by Mission council on Monday.

B.C. Civil Liberties Association spokesman Micheal Vonn said the
group intends to join the class-action suit: "Our opinion is, fining
people for imaginary grow-ops does nothing to increase safety in Mission."