LIVERMORE JOINS OTHER CITIES IN BANNING POT CLUBS

LIVERMORE -- Livermore joined neighbors Dublin and Pleasanton in
banning medical cannabis dispensaries within city limits by passing a
similar ordinance Monday night.

The new law was approved after its second reading without any
opposition or fanfare. Broader discussions on the topic were held
last November, at which time it was decided that secondary impacts of
such facilities -- most notably increased crime -- outweigh the
benefits to the community.

At that time, City Manager Linda Barton told the Council that based
on findings in other communities that allow medical marijuana
facilities, it would add significantly to the police department's
workload and could require additional staff.

Pleasanton banned the dispensaries in June, but are trying to work
with Alameda County to see how great the demand is for such facilities.

Dublin passed a ban last year.

Other Bay Area cities with bans on dispensaries include Concord,
Dublin, Pleasanton Hill, Antioch, Oakley, Pinole, San Pablo and Hercules.