HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) – On the eve of the enactment of Proposal 1, a ballot initiative that voters in Michigan approved last month to allow recreational use of marijuana in this state, local municipalities have been scrambling to set up guidelines for the legal use and distribution of cannabis and hemp.
During tonight’s biweekly business meeting, the Holland City Council is expected to approve an emergency ordinance, which gives it immediate effect, that amends the Tulip City’s code to reflect the restrictions approved in Prop 1 that prohibits weed for those under 21; consuming or smoking marijuana in a public place, including schools or jails; grow pot that can be seen unaided from a public place; operate a vehicle or boat while consuming weed; and passengers in vehicles from smoking joints. In addition, Council should, on procedural first reading, endorse an ordinance amendment making Holland off-limits for anyone wishing to set up shop for selling marijuana. A second reading and formal approval is slated for two weeks from tonight. On Monday, the Zeeland City Council OK’d similar ordinance amendments for that community.
Perhaps overshadowed by the marijuana question on tonight’s 7 PM Council meeting agenda is an ordinance amendment that establishes a Water System Advisory Council. This stems from new lead and copper rule provisions in the state’s Safe Drinking Water Act, enacted earlier this year, which mandates all water systems serving populations of 50 thousand and more to establish such a panel. This measure came as a result of the Flint Water Crisis.
