GROW BYLAW GOOD FOR COMMUNITY

The Point of North Cowichan's Controlled Substance Bylaw Has Been Lost.

The Cowichan Community Policing Society asked local government to
consider such a bylaw. They did it in response to the increasing
number of grow operations, the dangers to and costs incurred with the
discovery and dismantling of such operations and the decline in
property values for those neighbouring a grow operation.

The bylaw is not an increased mandate for the police at the expense
of tenant and landowners. It is a tool that helps safeguard
residents, neighbours and future tenants. Several other jurisdictions
have enacted similar bylaws and have found the incidents of grow
operations have declined. Tenant rights are already protected under
provincial legislation and none of the jurisdictions have reported an
increase in tenant complaints.

This bylaw places some onus back on the landlords and/or property
managers for public safety by ensuring that if the building has been
used for a grow operation, they report it to the appropriate
authority, have the building properly cleaned and disinfected and
certified for reoccupancy. Costs for dismantling and cleanup may be
the responsibility of the owner instead of the taxpayer.

Contrary to March 4 opinion writer Jason Youmans, marijuana is not
just a police matter. It is a community matter. Congratulations to
North Cowichan for stepping up. All councils were first approached in
2005. The idea was reported in local papers and residents had
opportunities for input.

Training is available for landlords and property managers. The
Residential Tenancy Act outlines duties and responsibilities of both
the landlord and tenant. Take the time to read the bylaw on North
Cowichan's website. The more informed we are, the more empowered we
become for our own safety and involvement in our community.