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Nearly 70 per cent of Drayton Valley-area residents support cannabis retail stores, survey says

May 29, 2018 | 9:45 AM

A recent survey suggests nearly 70 per cent of Drayton Valley area residents support cannabis retail stores opening shop in town once it’s legalized.

Nearly 550 Drayton Valley area residents responded to the Cannabis Survey that was compiled of 11 questions regarding the operations of cannabis stores and the consumption of marijuana in Drayton Valley. 

Drayton Valley Mayor Michael Doerksen said that an interesting response he found was that over 65 per cent would like to see a public vote on the issue.

The majority of the respondents were between the ages of 25 to 44, making up nearly 57 per cent.

Just over half of the respondents would like to see the use of cannabis on private property but not on public lands such as sidewalks or walking trails. A further 60 per cent agreed that marijuana could be allowed in designated areas at festivals or events.

Schools and parks/playgrounds were the two highest ranked spots where a setback of at least 100 metres should be implemented for nearby cannabis retail stores. 

Mayor Doerksen added that  the survey was a great way to gauge how residents feel about the issue, however council will be taking its time on the legislation. 

“We’re not really taking the federal governments deadline as a hard go or stop, it’s kind of like we are going to do what’s best for Drayton Valley,” said Doerksen. 

Doerksen said he has had nine to 10 groups approach him regarding opening a retail cannabis store in Drayton Valley.