GROW-OP RULES THE RIGHT MOVE

It is refreshing to be able to salute the people involved when we're
in a leadership role on provincial or even national issues.

That's the case with the way our city handles marijuana grow operation
houses - an example for other municipalities.

Realtors on the Lower Mainland are asking for an additional question
on real estate disclosure forms, advising of grow-op use, protecting
themselves and real estate buyers. That's an excellent move - anything
to protect the consumer has to be welcomed.

Nanaimo borrowed an idea from New Westminster which cuts off all
services to drug-use houses - water, electricity, etc. Nanaimo has
taken that a couple of steps further. First, a building permit has to
be obtained and the house inspected by a contractor and a consultant
to check all aspects, including air quality and possible structural
damage.

After all concerns have been corrected, a city building inspection is
carried out before a new occupancy permit is issued.

This is a common-sense approach to what can turn into a nightmare for
a buyer, especially with possible mould and rot which can not only be
structurally damaging, but pose a serious health threat.

Hats off to city hall for this one.