Almost 1/4 of Humboldt County feels they are somewhat depent on marijuana cultivation for income; 3/4 support cannabis tax

This morning at the Humboldt County

Board of Supervisors there two items brought forth by the County Administrative Office.

One is placing a Commercial cannabis cultivation excise tax on the ballot for the November 8, 2016 election.

The other is an Aggressive and intrusive solicitation ordinance.

In a presentation by Miranda Everett from the FM3, a polling firm, there were some key points highlighted in her presentation.

Support for this tax extremely high in Eureka and Arcata. Extending the tax to recreational marijuana was also popular.

Supervisor Estelle Fennell reiterated what the poll results indicated, that the state is intending taxes as well and that the Board is "aware not to overdo it".

County Public Information Officer Sean Quincey pointed out that only grows that are permitted can be taxed, so recreational marijuana could not be taxed.

He also told the Board "what went into determing the rates" and research done by CAO's office.

Supervisor Fennell said we are "looking at the bigger picture" but this tax only applies to the medical marijuana use and cultivation local laws passed.

Highlights:

Three fourth of the people supported the tax. This included people who made income through marijuana related activities.

Meth, crime, insufficient mental health services were top concerns.

Hard drugs #1 concern, people living on streets on illegal camping #2, lack of mental health services #3 and environmental damage from large scale illegal marijuana growhouses and farms was #4.

People were less concerned about marijuana related crime as compared to environmental damage, but both were concerns.

"Almost 1/4 feel they are atleast somewhat dependent on marijuana."

Potholes were mentioned as a big concern.

Except for Ian Herndon from Humboldt Boutique Gardens, representation from usual cannabis businesses regulars and activists was non existent.

The BOS chambers was only 1/3 full. Most of the attendees were staff or media.

There was a comparison between the 2016 results and a 2014 community survey.

All supervisors are in favor of tax, no sunset, agree with staff's proposed tax structure and  a progressive tax hike.