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May meet in two weeks to learn more about the issue
YOUNGSTOWN
The Youngstown Board of Health put off taking a stance on the state marijuana ballot issue, but is contemplating convening a special meeting in two weeks to learn more about the issue.
Board member Porfirio Esparra Jr. said he would like to be more informed on the issue, particularly as it pertains to the medical use of marijuana.
“Marijuana can already be prescribed by a physician for medical use,” said Erin Bishop, health commissioner, at Monday’s board meeting.
“I would like to see the regulations that says medicinal marijuana is legal,” Esparra said. Youngstown Mayor John A. McNally, chairman of the health board, suggested a special meeting to further discuss the issue.
State Issue 3, the Ohio Marijuana Legalization Initiative, is an initiated constitutional amendment on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.
In other action, the board passed a plan for a new regulation governing the keeping of livestock, including chickens, goats and other fowl in the city.
The plan of action tasks the health board with making a recommendation to the planning/zoning commission, which is responsible for issuing and revoking permits to keep livestock, and also for enforcement.
According to the plan, chickens and other domestic animals can pose a significant public-health concern and nuisance if not properly cared for; and chickens and other fowl may carry disease that can be transmitted to other animals and people.
The proposed resolution would include rules on food and water storage, distance and setback requirements, coop and housing requirements, maximum number of animals permitted to be kept, and what type of animals are restricted in the city.