The Medical Health Officer argues there should be no exceptions to the proposed 160-metre buffer zone between schools and possible Cannabis retail outlets in Saskatoon. Dr. Julie Kryzanowski says reserach indicates increased tobbaco use in youth the closer they are to outlets that sell it. She believes the same would be the case for Cannabis. The city is reviewing a proposed 60-metre zone in the Broadway Business District since 160-metres would rule out the entire area. Retailers in the Broadway area are lobbying for a much smaller buffer zone. Dr. Kryzanowski also feels post secondary campuses should be off limits to Cannabis stores because use is highest amongst young adults, particularily ages 19-to-23. The city hopes to have recommendations ready for a May 28th public hearing.
Saskatoon City Councillor Darren Hill is on record stating that a buffer zone would be counter-productive. He says young people in the city use Cannabis and responsible, legislated sales of the drug shouldn’t be hidden from them.