[420 Girl]

What to do about medical marijuana in Corning burns as a campaign issue as the two candidates for Corning's next mayor canvass for votes.

Incumbent Gary Strack and challenger Dean Cofer would prefer there not be any medical marijuana dispensaries in town.

"It all depends on what the law determines," Cofer said. "I would prefer not to have one, but the reality is there is one in Corning and whether or not it remains or not is yet to be seen."

Strack said he feels medical marijuana dispensaries should not be allowed under the present structure.

"Medical marijuana should be handled just like any other prescribed medicine that is distributed in pharmacies only with a doctor's prescription," he said.

Cofer noted that he was not a part of city government when the current interim ordinance banning medical marijuana dispensaries was adopted.

"If the courts decide dispensaries should be allowed in cities and counties, I believe those governments should be allowed to zone where dispensaries can be established," he explained. "But in Corning, that would be like shutting the barn door after the horse is out as we already have one right on main street."

Strack also believes city and county governments should be allowed to zone medical marijuana dispensaries.

"Where they would be zoned I believe should be up to the community. I would definitely solicit community input on that decision," Strack stated.

As the campaigns continue up to the Nov. 2 election, Cofer and Strack will be going door-to-door to introduce themselves to voters and plan on participating in upcoming public forum events.

"I want to be mayor to improve this city," said Cofer, who is running his campaign out of his Marguerite Avenue home. "Look around this town. It has deteriorated in the years Steve Kimbrough has been city manager. Even during the 16 years of economical boom there were no improvements."

He said he also wants the opportunity to take a good look at the city budget.

"I think there is too much general budget money going to city administration," Cofer stated.

Strack opened a campaign headquarters on Solano Street this week.

"My headquarters will be open on Thursday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 to noon and a place where people can register to vote and get a raffle ticket for a drawing the last Saturday of each month," he said.

The incumbent would like to continue his tenure as mayor to help the city weather the storm of recession the country and city is experiencing.

"To accomplish that, the community needs the experience of someone who knows the laws, both municipal and state. I have the experience that will help do that."

Strack's campaign committee, which is registered with Tehama County Elections Department, includes Chairwoman Teresa Lamb, Treasurer Kyle Lauderdale, and Secretary Ryan Reilly.

Cofer's team consists of himself and his wife, Roxie, who serves as treasurer and bookkeeper.


NewsHawk: MedicalNeed: 420 MAGAZINE
Source: Rivals ‘agree' on marijuana | city, marijuana, strack - Top Story - Corning Observer
Author: lie R. Johnson/Tri-County Newspapers
Contact: Contact Us : Corning Observer
Copyright: 2010 Freedom Communications
Website:Rivals ‘agree' on marijuana | city, marijuana, strack - Top Story - Corning Observer


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