District targets grow-op stench

Lake Country proposal for laws requiring pot producers improve air filtration among resolutions to be discussed by UBCM

The “disturbing odours” that can waft from cannabis production plants should be more vigorously curtailed, Lake Country councillors say.

Town representatives will present three resolutions for discussion at next month’s gathering of local politicians in Vancouver.

No resolutions are being brought forward by delegates from Kelowna or Peachland.

West Kelowna’s two proposals are to allow municipalities to install photo radar on city streets, and calling on the province to prohibit the selling of “fruit and candy flavoured” e-cigarettes and vapour products to minors.

At each UBCM session, politicians decide whether to support or oppose resolutions tabled by their colleagues from around B.C. The following year, the provincial government gives a response to the various proposals.

The resolutions for this year’s convention cover a broad range of topics, ranging from the construction of more hospital helipads to increased library funding, more regulation for groundwater extraction and greater protection of caves.

Since marijuana was legalized last year, Lake Country’s politicians believe there are “gaps to fill” in how the plant is grown at commercial operations.

“Cannabis production operations cause disturbing odours that can create issues and breathing problems to those with respiratory vulnerability,” Lake Country’s resolution states.

The call is for the province to pass new laws to better enforce federal laws that require pot producers to have good-quality air filtration systems.

Another of Lake Country’s resolution is a call for the province to fund the installation of seatbelts on all school buses. And, like their West Kelowna colleagues, Lake Country politicians also want “tougher regulations” on the sale of e-cigarettes and vapour products to young people.