Elko City Council votes to ban marijuana shops

ELKO — The City Council in this Northern Nevada city has approved an ordinance prohibiting recreational and medical marijuana businesses within city limits.

The council adopted the measure this week, with the mayor casting the tie-breaking vote, following prolonged debate, according to the Elko Daily Free Press.

Council member John Patrick Rice opposed the ordinance, asking the council to create a new version that would ban only recreational marijuana businesses.

Rice cited the dozens of letters and testimony from residents who voiced support for medical marijuana by sharing how it has treated their conditions.

Council member Reece Keener noted the testimonies were compelling but ultimately voted for the ordinance, contending that allowing marijuana dispensaries would be in violation of their oath of office.