The City of Cortez wants to experiment with marijuana as city leaders consider adopting a moratorium on recreational marijuana sales.
In a wait-and-see mode, local officials want to know what new guidelines and procedures the state legislature will adopt in January regarding recreational marijuana licensing before rushing to write and approve its own set of regulations.
City Manager Shane Hale sent a memo to city council officials on Friday, suggesting they adopt the moratorium. Until state officials iron out licensing details during the 2014 legislative session, Hale said he believes a local moratorium is needed.
“There is considerable confusion amongst the various players as to the necessity of, the efficacy of and the consequences of local enforcement regarding state licenses,” Hale penned in the memo.
After speaking to Department of Revenue Marijuana Enforcement officials, Hale said he believes the city could face potential litigation if local officials rushed to adopt a recreational marijuana sales ordinance prior to the state formally adopting licensing regulations and policies.
“I anticipate that existing legislation will be further modified to meet the new situation and circumstances created by the implementation of Amendment 64,” Hale wrote.
The moratorium is listed on the city council’s agenda for a 7 p.m. meeting tonight at City Hall.
Prior to adopting a moratorium, city officials indicate they plan to hold a public hearing on Aug. 27, at 7:30 p.m. If approved, the moratorium would sunset on June 1, 2014.
tbaker@cortezjournal.com