Regarding the March 7 Redmond Spokesman guest column by Mayor Fitch titled “Worth discussing marijuana dispensaries in Redmond,” the mayor wrote: “In 2016, Oregon voters decided that adults should have the right to possess and purchase marijuana.” I do not have the statistics. but I doubt Deschutes County voted for that measure in 2016. Normally, Multnomah County carries the vote for the rest of the state.

Adults in Redmond can have marijuana delivered to their home, take the bus to Bend or drive 14 miles to obtain marijuana. Keeping marijuana dispensaries out of Redmond does not prevent any adult from purchasing marijuana. Not having marijuana dispensaries in Redmond does not infringe on the population’s lawful access to marijuana. The access is easy. Our city government is not denying citizens access to marijuana. Our citizens know where to purchase marijuana now.

Yes, the majority of our previous council opposed marijuana dispensaries in Redmond. That council was for infrastructure, good jobs, etc., that makes Redmond unique for family living. The council stood for strong family values. Just because a vote made it legal does not mean it is good for the people.

As the council poll noted, there was interest in having marijuana dispensaries in Redmond. But from the results I read, opposition was stronger. From what I read, the mayor is looking at a compromise as to where to put marijuana dispensaries. It will be interesting to see which neighborhood Mayor Fitch finds acceptable for such businesses and the effects on those neighborhoods.

Yes, there should be a discussion about marijuana dispensaries in Redmond. In the long run, it would be noble if the city would take a stand against one thing that is ruining family life by leading to heavier drugs and crime.

Please let the Redmond City Council know what you think by coming to a council meeting or writing a letter to the council or newspaper.

Judy Dow

Redmond