Agenda Item Wording:
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Amended Resolution - Adopt amended Resolution 2024-24 to place a cannabis tax measure on the November 2024 general election ballot.
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Deadline for Action: 7/15/2024
Submitting Department: Community Development
Contact Name and Phone Number: Devon Jones, 713-4190
Department Recommendation:
Adopt amended Resolution 2024-24 to place a cannabis tax measure on the November 2024 general election ballot. The amendment is necessary in order to meet the California Election Code's required 75 word maximum for ballot language and to provide additional clarifying information as to the ballot argument submittal process, the title of the measure, the need for the measure and potential uses of the funds.
The ballot question in the previously approved version is actually at 76 words due to "$10/square..." being two words according to CA Election Code, section 9, Counting of words. The new version simply deletes "and" from "and which would only be levied if state law mandates", bringing the final word count to the required 75 word maximum. Here is the new proposed language for Resolution 2024-24:
"Shall the measure to fund general governmental services such as public safety, emergency response, youth programs, addressing homelessness, and maintaining public spaces, by taxing cannabis businesses at a rate not exceeding 10% of gross receipts, or up to $10/square foot for cultivation, raising approximately $500,000 annually, requiring spending disclosures, which would only be levied if state law mandates or the Council approves an ordinance allowing such businesses, lasting until ended by voters, be adopted?"
The proposed title of the measure is "Visalia Cannabis Tax Authorization for Maintenance of Essential Services". The Mayor is being designated as the City Council member that shall submit the written argument for publication in the voter information guide in accordance with the County Elections Code. Additionally, several new 'wherea...
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