GROW-OP BYLAW GETS YEAR-LONG TRIAL

A North Cowichan bylaw meant to put the kibosh on marijuana grow
operations and drug laboratories in rental properties in the area
will have a year of implementation before municipal staff take
another look at its merits.

The bylaw, which was implemented in February, requires landlords to
inspect their properties once every six months to ensure they are not
being used for illegal purposes.

Councillor George Seymour said property owners told him the
inspection visits were too costly to conduct, especially for
landlords who do not live in the area.

Councillor Anne Murray echoed his sentiments.

"Irresponsible landlords are asking for everything they get," said Murray.

"Responsible owners should be aware of who their tenants are and what
they are doing with the property," Murray continued.

However, North Cowichan mayor Jon Lefebure told those assembled for
the July 18 meeting he would rather his district be viewed as onerous
where drug issues are concerned.