The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit isn't quite sure what to do when it comes to the pending legalization of recreational marijuana.
As of October 17, consumers 19 or older will be able to purchase pot online through the Ontario Cannabis Store — the province plans to allow private retail stores by April 1, 2019.
Board Chair Gary McNamara says there are a lot of questions about regulations and enforcement.
He says the health unit and municipalities have been given no timeline whatsoever from either the provincial or federal government.
"At the end of the day, the rubber is going to hit the road at the municipal level. We're responsible for policing and public health — it's hand in glove with the municipal sector and how are we going to manage all of that?"
McNamara says he knows it's frustrating.
"I know the media is looking for answers to share with all of our friends but all I can say is 'stay tuned' and hopefully in the next three to four weeks we'll have a better handle on is going to come down the pike."
The Ontario Cannabis Store says it has partnered with 26 licensed producers including Aphria in Leamington for its online retail platform. The store will be Ontario's only online retailer when recreational marijuana is legalized this fall.