Vote on cannabis rules delayed over growers concerns

Chelan County Commissioners tabled a vote after a contentious hearing Tuesday on the proposed new rules regarding growing marijuana throughout the county.  The Wenatchee World reports about 100 growers attended the meeting and those that commented told commissioners about the devastating impact the changes would have on their businesses and livelihoods.  Some threatening more litigation against the county or campaigns against commissioner's re-election bids if the final rules are adopted.  When Commissioners imposed a moratorium last year on marijuana operations while crafting new rules, Central Washington Growers Association filed a lawsuit on behalf of growers and processors who had begun operating under the original county guidelines.

The vote on the new rules has been tabled until the Board's August 22nd meeting.

The new proposed ordinance would place limitations on lot sizes, setbacks and implement requirements on the smell of cannabis as it grows.