Calgary to consider allowing sale of cannabis at 18+ events

From Blue Sky City to green cloud city?

A report from city administration suggests Calgary should consider allowing the sale of cannabis at adult-only events.

Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) implemented a change last year to allow existing cannabis retailers to set up a temporary shop while at events for people 18 and older — where consumption is already allowed.

City administration says in addition to people illegally purchasing it, there is a sort of legal loophole in place already. Cannabis shops are allowed to deliver product, meaning people can legally buy product in a roundabout way while at an event.

“My issue with it being at the fingertips of people just ordering cannabis, and it’s just like Skip the Dishes for cannabis, what are we doing?” asks Ward 1 Coun. and mayoral candidate Sonya Sharp.

Administration says the delivery aspect is the AGLC’s jurisdiction and not the intent of the city’s report.

It was a housekeeping change to Calgary’s business license bylaw to align with provincial rules, but it has led to some politicizing the plant itself.

“Marijuana is legal, I actually think it was done to get a lot of votes for the Liberal government,” said Ward 13 Coun. Dan McLean in chambers. “I know it’s legal, but I think it sends the wrong message.”

Some are expressing concern the issue is just another example of the city footing the bill for the province’s ideas.

“AGLC and the government of Alberta should be paying for the resources for enforcement,” says Sharp.

Others disagree.

“It’s no different than when there is a bear in the tree and someone calls 311 and we direct to Fish and Wildlife,” says Ward 11 Coun. Kourtney Penner. “We do re-direct to the appropriate services to deal with the issue at hand.”

City councillors will be able to debate the plan when it goes to council chambers on Apr. 29.