Deschutes County opts out of pot biz — for now

Deschutes County commissioners decided Monday to temporarily opt out of allowing new rural marijuana businesses, and to create a committee to review proposed regulations so they can make a more informed decision.

After a pair of lengthy recent hearings dominated by rural residents worried about the impacts of large marijuana grows — and earlier hearings the county’s Planning Commission — the board took the opt-out step, facing an upcoming deadline.

“At this time, the county opted out for anybody to have the ability to get a license from OLCC as of Jan. 4 next year,” said Commission Chairman Tony DeBone.

But commissioners also noted they can rescind the opt-out ordinance at any time — and that they plan to do so.

Commissioners said they don’t plan to opt out indefinitely, as that under current state law would mean the final decision on allowing marijuana business would go to voters in November 2016. The county oversees, and the temporary ban only affects rural unincorporated areas outside of cities, and apparently won’t affect existing facilities..

Instead, commissioners said they plan to establish a committee to review rules as recommended by the planning commission and make its own recommendations.

That didn’t set well at all with some who favor moving forward with the marijuana industry as Oregon voters approved a year ago.

“Doing an opt out at the last minute is a behavior I consider chicken,” said cannabis community activist Justin Gottlieb.

Commissioners also said they don’t want to go first and instead would like to see how Clackamas and Jackson counties proceed when adopting marijuana land use regulations.

“I don’t support grandfathering people in,” DeBone said. “I don’t support making a decision on somebody’s capital investment that they did before the fact. There’s no way to put that in our decision process. We’re looking for the right fit in our community, for our culture here in Deschutes County.”

In January, commissioners will discuss the formation of a committee of citizen volunteers. Additional information about the committee is forthcoming, they said.

Commissioners have requested a check-in with staff and the committee in 90 days. At that time, they will determine next steps in the process.

Those who seek moving forward with business plans voiced their frustration and disappointment with the interim step.

“Those of us that have been preparing for this market, this really hinders us,” said Lindsey Pate of Glass House Grown. “Those of us that have put our money into it, our blood, sweat and tears.”