This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
Longmont, CO – The Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce is supporting two ballot issues for the 2017 ballot: Question 2I, Marijuana Tax and Question 2H, Public Safety Tax.
The “Marijuana Tax” is an additional sales tax at 3% on any retail sales of marijuana in the City of Longmont. Only customers purchasing marijuana pay the tax. Half of the funds will be used for city services to cover licensing and permitting of marijuana stores, the other half of collected funds will be used for affordable housing needs.
“Marijuana retail sales are new for Longmont; it’s important that expected and perhaps unexpected costs are covered. Our members in the marijuana retail sector support this tax. Collected funds will cover costs but also address affordable housing needs, something the Chamber will be actively addressing with our economic partners,” said Michelle Brietzke, 2017 Chamber Board of Directors Chair.
The “Public Safety Tax” is a dedicated public safety tax that will be used to increase Longmont’s police force as well as firefighters, dispatchers and support staff. In addition, increased funds will be used to purchase equipment and facilities to further enhance safety in Longmont.
“A vibrant economic environment is dependent on having a safe community. The men and women in Longmont’s Public Safety Department have done great work ensuring residents’ and businesses’ safety while managing an ever-growing population. Supporting 2H will help our Safety Department meet increasing demand,” said Scott Cook, CEO of the Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce (LACC) is proud to be a 501(c) 6, not-for-profit, organization serving the business community for over 130 years. LACC, through its member, led Public Policy Committee and Board of Directors, regularly reviews legislative and ballot issues to determine their impact on local businesses.
This is a press release from the Longmont Area Chamber of Commerce and is published by the Longmont Observer as a public service. The Longmont Observer does not support nor oppose ballot issues.
