Hempstalk Denied Permit

The city parks bureau rejected organizers’ request for use of Waterfront Park one day after the state became the latest to legalize recreational marijuana use, saying organizers have been unable to properly manage the gathering.

A lawyer representing the organizers told The Oregonian she will appeal the city’s permit denial. Hempstalk is an annual event that advocates for marijuana legalization.

Parks officials say attendees regularly violate the laws by consuming pot during the festival. The most recent Hempstalk took place in September at Waterfront Park, featuring artists including Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, and John Trudell.

Oregonians recently approved the recreational use of marijuana. But even after pot becomes legal in July, public consumption won’t be allowed.