By Clarence Cromwell
The local rally against medical marijuana apparently didn't convince Los Gatos voters.
Although Proposition 215 opponents brought Los Gatos an anti-hemp rally the week before the election--with U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein and local political bigwigs--the medical marijuana proposition passed here and in every other city in Santa Clara County.
In Los Gatos, the proposition sailed through with approval from 68 percent (7,935 to 3,627 votes) of those who voted on it. It was a winner in all 34 of the precincts where ballots were cast Nov. 5. Monte Sereno voters cast 862 ballots in favor of medical marijuana and 592 against.
The proposition passed with 65 percent approval in Santa Clara County (282,375 to 154,232 votes). It passed statewide, as well.
Proposition 215 states that patients and certain caregivers grow marijuana for medical purposes. Patients who obtain written or verbal permission from their doctor are permitted to smoke marijuana if physician determines the person's health will benefit from using the drug.
Los Gatans likewise approved of two other important propositions that won: 209, the anti-affirmative action initiative; and 218, the proposition that would tighten voter control over local taxes.
On the question of affirmative action, Los Gatans voted 6,513 to 5,075 to abolish it. In Monte Sereno, the initiative won, 886 to 569 votes. The proposition prohibits preferential treatment in public employment, public education and public contracting.
On subjecting local taxes, assessments and fees to the ballot, Los Gatans voted 5,892 to 4,899 in favor of the proposition. Monte Serenans voted 833 to 539 in favor.
This article appeared in the Los Gatos Weekly-Times, November 20, 1996.
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