A New Era for Surrey: Cannabis Stores Potentially Allowed

Cannabis stores have been prohibited from operating in Surrey, BC, even though the drug has been legal in Canada for nearly five years. However, Mayor Brenda Locke and Surrey City Council are currently considering whether to allow cannabis retailers in the city. This article will explore the reasons for this potential change, the challenges it may pose, and the impact it could have on Surrey’s economy and residents.

Overview

• Mayor Brenda Locke and Surrey City Council are considering allowing cannabis stores in the city.
• Surrey currently prohibits cannabis retailers from operating in the city.
• Industry stakeholders and the Surrey Board of Trade have been calling for the removal of red tape for cannabis businesses in the city.
• The potential change has been met with support from some councillors and industry professionals.
• However, concerns remain about the impact of cannabis on young people and the need for regulation and education.

Why Consider Allowing Cannabis Stores in Surrey?

Economic Benefits

One reason why Surrey is considering allowing cannabis stores is the potential economic benefits. As B.C.’s second-largest city, Surrey has a rapidly growing economy. However, by prohibiting cannabis retailers from operating within its borders, it is falling behind neighboring municipalities like White Rock and Delta, which have already welcomed cannabis businesses. This is frustrating for many industry stakeholders and the Surrey Board of Trade, who see the potential economic benefits of allowing these businesses to operate in the city.

The Need to Tackle the Illegal Marijuana Market

Another reason for considering allowing cannabis stores in Surrey is the need to tackle the illegal marijuana market. By prohibiting legal retailers from operating in the city, Surrey is inadvertently pushing consumers towards the illegal market. This is not only detrimental to the city’s economy but can also be dangerous, as there is no regulation or oversight of products sold in the illegal market.

Increased Accessibility for Medical Marijuana Patients

Another group that could benefit from allowing cannabis stores in Surrey is medical marijuana patients. Jody Toor, an integrative medical doctor, envisions a medical-oriented approach to cannabis use, where medical professionals can educate and consult with customers in the cannabis store itself. This would provide easier access to medical marijuana for patients with conditions such as chronic pain, mental health issues, cancer, and PTSD.

Challenges

Regulation

One of the main challenges of allowing cannabis stores in Surrey is the need for regulation. The city must ensure that these businesses are following all the necessary regulations and guidelines set forth by the federal and provincial governments. This includes enforcing age restrictions, preventing illegal sales, and ensuring products are properly labeled and tested.

Education

Another challenge of allowing cannabis stores in Surrey is the need for education. The city must ensure that residents understand the risks and benefits of cannabis use, particularly for young people. This includes educating residents about the potential negative effects of cannabis use on the developing brain, as well as how to use the drug responsibly.

Impact on Surrey

Economic Impact

Allowing cannabis stores in Surrey could have a significant economic impact on the city. By allowing legal retailers to operate within its borders, Surrey could see an increase in tax revenue and job creation. This would benefit not only the cannabis industry but also other local businesses that would benefit from increased foot traffic in the city.

Public Perception

Allowing cannabis stores in Surrey could also have an impact on public perception. The stigma associated with cannabis use and the industry as a whole could be diminished if legal retailers are allowed to operate in the city. This would not only benefit the cannabis industry but also help to reduce the negative perception of Surrey as a whole.

Conclusion

Surrey is currently considering allowing cannabis stores in the city, which could have significant economic benefits and help tackle the illegal marijuana market. However, the city must ensure that these businesses are properly

regulated and that residents are educated about the risks and benefits of cannabis use. Allowing legal cannabis retailers to operate in Surrey could have a positive impact on the city’s economy, as well as help to reduce the stigma associated with the industry. As Surrey City Council continues to consider this potential change, it will be important to balance the potential benefits with the need for proper regulation and education. Overall, the potential for legal cannabis retailers to operate in Surrey is an important issue that will continue to shape the city’s economic and social landscape in the coming years.

FAQs

1. When might cannabis stores be allowed to operate in Surrey?

• Surrey City Council is currently considering the potential change, and it is unclear when or if cannabis stores will be allowed to operate in the city.

2. What are the potential economic benefits of allowing cannabis stores in Surrey?

• Allowing legal cannabis retailers to operate in Surrey could increase tax revenue and job creation, benefiting both the cannabis industry and other local businesses.

3. What are the concerns surrounding allowing cannabis stores in Surrey?

• Some concerns include ensuring proper regulation and education to mitigate the potential negative effects of cannabis use, particularly on young people.

4. What impact could allowing cannabis stores in Surrey have on public perception?

• Allowing legal retailers to operate in the city could help to reduce the negative stigma associated with cannabis use and the industry as a whole.

5. How could medical marijuana patients benefit from allowing cannabis stores in Surrey?

• Easier access to medical marijuana could benefit patients with conditions such as chronic pain, mental health issues, cancer, and PTSD.