DOLORES –

The pot-sales prohibition ordinance, enacted in 2014, was extended two years, until Dec. 31, 2018, to allow for more time to consider the matter.

Before the motion to continue the ban, town trustee Robert Dobry presented a motion that would have allowed the ban to be overturned by resolution of the board, which is less cumbersome than passing an ordinance.

“I feel that is a compromise,” he said.

But the measure failed and a motion to continue the ban passed, with trustees Dobry and Trevor Ince voting against.

The two say they believe retail marijuana sales would improve sales tax revenues for the town. Other board members said it could increase demand for law enforcement and increase town administrative costs.

Dobry pointed out that Dolores District 2 voted in favor of Amendment 64 in 2012, which legalized recreational use and sales of marijuana.

Towns and counties can decide whether to establish pot shops. Montezuma County has banned retails sales, but Cortez and Mancos have allowed them.