News Release

Moreno Valley City Council Approves Commercial Cannabis Tax Measure for November Ballot

For immediate release: June 29, 2018

Measure Would Raise an Estimated $2.2 Million Annually to Provide Additional Public Safety and Quality of Life Services

The Moreno Valley City Council approved a ballot measure for the November 6 general election asking residents to tax commercial cannabis sales and production in the City. If approved by voters, the measure would generate an estimated $2.2 million annually to provide vital public safety and quality of life services.

Thousands of Moreno Valley residents participated in a recent survey, which indicated that more than two-thirds of Moreno Valley residents believe the City needs additional locally controlled funding to protect and maintain key city services. The community survey results show that Moreno Valley residents support key City services, including:

• Maintaining 9-1-1 emergency response times
• Maintaining robbery and burglary suppression programs
• Maintaining safe and clean public areas
• Repairing potholes, local streets, and roads
• Enhancing recreation and youth programs and facilities

The Local Moreno Valley Commercial Cannabis Activity Tax Measure would authorize a tax of up to 8 percent on total sales of commercial cannabis, and a maximum of $15 per square foot of growing space for cannabis cultivation operators.

The tax would not impact any resident or business outside of the commercial cannabis industry. The recommended rate would generate an estimated $2.2 million which would be used to fund the community’s self-identified priorities, including public safety, street repair, and enhancing recreation and youth programs.

The Local Moreno Valley Commercial Cannabis Activity Tax Measure will appear on the November 6, 2018 ballot.