By Diane Saunders | Published in Eastern Arizona Courier
The Graham County Board of Supervisors approved regulations for the cultivation and sale of medical marijuana — less than a week after the regulations received a favorable recommendation from the County Planning and Zoning Commission.
“I think this is a good start in taking us where we want to be,” Supervisor Jim Palmer said.
The marijuana regulations are necessary because voters approved use of the drug for medical reasons in the Nov. 2 general election. The marijuana use rules, which are part of the county’s planning and zoning ordinance, were offered as amendments to the sexually oriented business regulations. Palmer emphasized that marijuana dispensaries can only be located in commercial or manufacturing zones — not residential areas.
Last week, County Health Department Director Neil Karnes said the Arizona Department of Health Services is expected to allow only one dispensary for every 10 pharmacies within a county.
This means the county could have only one dispensary because there are only five pharmacies in Graham.
Wright said if a dispensary opens in Graham, no marijuana growers will be allowed within a 25-mile radius.
He added that a marijuana grower or seller must have a permit before business can be transacted.
Prior to passing the regulations, the supervisors acknowledged that the regulations will probably require updating or changes.
“We’re going to do a lot of tweaking on this,” Board of Supervisors Chairman Mark Herrington said.
