Politics

Hollister Councilman Ray Friend, like other colleagues, had questions Monday about current state laws and other communities’ precedent when it comes to establishing required, local regulations on medicinal marijuana.

Hollister council members Tuesday put off a decision by 90 days on whether to sell the city's plot in the 400 block of San Benito Street.

The Vache Society had its yearly celebration Jan. 12 at The Inn Tres Pinos, but this one had a bit more significance—it was the 20-year anniversary of the group.Known for having casual and relaxing meetings—a big draw to the members and any potential new members—the 20th-year anniversary celebration featured something somewhat different: speeches. Twenty years is a pretty significant milestone, after all.

It looks like the Hollister council is willing to give another kick-start to the faltering motorcycle rally.

Emails obtained by the Free Lance regarding the Hollister Freedom Rally event showed that city officials behind the scenes held talks on possibly lifting the public nudity ban, agreed to a settlement with Abercrombie & Fitch over use of the event name logo, and experienced tensions with the promoter over what he called “permit hell” and other financial issues.

Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital announced a donation set to help establish a diabetes center in Hollister.

San Benito High School Superintendent John Perales urged trustees to consider a more liberal approach to physical education class waivers during the board meeting this week.

San Benito High School District trustees Tuesday accepted the resignation of Principal Todd Dearden—who had been under investigation for unspecified misconduct—and unanimously approved a resignation agreement that includes two months of salary and health benefits through June.

Supervisor Robert Rivas gets to take his turn as county board chairman in 2016.