Altona's new mayor is responding to questions about why the community didn't hold a plebiscite on the retail sale of marijuana in town following the legalization of recreational cannabis nearly a month ago. While communities like Winkler and Steinbach included the vote as part of the municipal election last month, Altona went a different route.

Al Friesen was part of the previous council that made the decision, which he said didn't come lightly, and included much discussion with the province and neighbouring municipalities.

"We made the decision because we are elected to make decisions," he explained.

Friesen added that council wanted to strike a balance between prohibition and regulations, and explained each application for a retail location is subject to council approval and also allows an opportunity for the public to voice an opinion.

He was quick to note that at this point, council has not received any applications but will be able to set further conditions when and if that happens.

"Again, it wasn't a snap decision. We thought it through carefully and felt it was the prudent way to proceed."