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December 12, 2013 <br /> Kittitas County Board of Commissioners <br /> 205 W. 50' Ave. Ste. 108 <br /> Ellensburg, Washington 98926 <br /> I am submitting the following comments and suggestions for consideration by the Board <br /> and staff regarding any necessary county adopted policy in relation to marijuana grower <br /> and processer uses in Kittitas County as provided by the passage of Initiative 502 by the <br /> voters of the State of Washington and regulated by the Washington State Liquor Control <br /> Board (WSLCB). <br /> I believe the county should consider allowing adequate time for consideration of any <br /> county action on the potential impacts of passage of Initiative 502. Any AGO or other <br /> guidance received could be included in deliberations. <br /> Review other county jurisdictions handling of this issue such as the Metropolitan King <br /> County Council approval of legislation modifying building codes and development <br /> regulations for siting of licensed recreational marijuana businesses and Douglas County's <br /> outright allowance as any other commercial agricultural activity. <br /> Avoid assuming liability by the county. <br /> 1. Recognize that licensure of growers and processors is done by the WA. State Liquor <br /> Control Board and clearly state this in any applicable ordinance, regulation, etc. <br /> 2. Treat as much as possible like any other rural agricultural operation. <br /> 3. Agricultural production and processing categories in rural designations and zones can <br /> Zn <br /> provide some direction for dealing with these specific uses. <br /> 4. Determine if there is potential for additional legal challenge if marijuana growing is <br /> distinguished from other growing operations. <br /> 5. State clearly it is the State of Washington's duty to enforce regulations stemming from <br /> the passage of Initiative 502. <br /> 6. If the county finds issues stemming from these activities do require special attention, <br /> keep to the focus of public health, safety and welfare and limit any policy to land use <br /> planning and zoning, environmental health and public works. <br /> Considerations for rural character compliance under the Growth Management Act. <br /> The Growth Management Act contains guidance for compatibility with a county's <br /> rural character. (RCW 36.70A.030 Definitions). <br /> (15) "Rural character" refers to the patterns of land use and development <br /> established by a county in the rural element of its comprehensive plan: <br /> 1 <br />