Fresno County considers changing medical marijuana rules

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The strict policy on growing marijuana in Fresno County will continue for now. And that means anyone who cultivates pot indoors or outdoors is subject to fines.

The zero tolerance policy on pot will remain in effect in Fresno County, despite a consideration to alter it, and allow a third party to hear sometimes lengthy marijuana appeals.

Chairman Andreas Borgeas said, "My biggest opinion, my strongest opinion is whether or not we are the appropriate forum, the appropriate body to hear these appeals.

Borgeas wants an unbiased hearing officer, hired by the county to take over listening to complaints from marijuana growers who are fined. But other supervisors were hesitant to draft even small changes now, since marijuana related crime is down significantly.

Supervisor Judy Case-McNairy said, "It's about creating a safe environment and finding a pathway for a safe community and I do believe all these marijuana grows have created a huge safety issue for the people of Fresno County."

Sheriff Margaret Mims says the ordinance is sending a strong message, along with hefty penalties. She urged the board to leave the policy as it is, for now.

"Were very new into this, we're working our way through the problems that we've had and I believe another year will give us a better measuring stick to see how we're doing to improve the process," explained Sheriff Mims.

One marijuana advocate had hoped the board would at least consider small grows of 12 plants or less. But Michael Green said he didn't expect it, considering their usual hard stance on pot.

Green said, "If that is really what you want to do is endorse the system of Fresno County being a dry county. Go for it. Fresno County is a dry county, that's what we tell all of our medical marijuana patients."

The sheriff is okay with that analogy, as long as it keeps pot growers away from here.

"If the message is don't do it in Fresno County, that's fine with me," explained Sheriff Mims.

The board will reconsider hiring a hearing officer after the next marijuana grow season.