TO: Mayor and City Commission
FROM: Douglas E. Smith, City Manager
DATE: January 20, 2016
Title
BROWARD COUNTY ORDINANCE REGARDING CIVIL CITATION FOR CANNABIS POSSESSION
BACKGROUND: On November 10, 2015, The Broward County Commission approved an Ordinance where police officers will have the option of issuing a $150 civil citation to someone caught with 20 grams or less of marijuana instead of filing a misdemeanor criminal charge against that person.
A $250 citation would be given for a second offense and a $500 citation for a third offense. Violators would also have to complete an assessment/treatment plan. In lieu of paying fines for first and second offenses, violators may participate in a community service, drug treatment, or educational program which has been approved by the County Administrator. Violators receiving a civil citation for a third violation must consent to participate in a screening and then complete a treatment and educational program or pay a fine, depending upon the result of the screening.
The City of Margate received a letter from Broward County Administrator, Bertha Henry inquiring as to whether our City will be opting out of this ordinance. The initial request was for a response by December 31, 2015; however, this time frame was extended to February 5, 2015.
RECOMMENDATION: For discussion
FISCAL IMPACT: For discussion
CONTACT PERSON: Douglas E. Smith, City Manager