Colorado Springs could extend medical marijuana business ban

Colorado Springs officials have suggested extending the city’s ban on medical marijuana businesses for another year.

City Council passed a six-month ban last November with the promise that it wouldn’t be extended. A task force that has studied the issue made some recommendations Monday but told the council medical marijuana issues should be explored further.

Nonvoting task force member Bret Waters suggested the city extend the ban for 12 months. Waters is also the mayor’s deputy chief of staff and an outspoken marijuana opponent.

Council President Merv Bennett reminded the council that they’d agreed not to extend the moratorium. Other officials suggested creating a new moratorium or limiting business licenses.

Bennett asked the task force to return with a recommendation for next steps by May.