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Published on November 07, 2024
Littleton Voters Approve Marijuana Tax Hike to Fund Public Safety and Homelessness ProgramsSource: City of Littleton

Last Tuesday, the voters of Littleton made a decisive leap towards reinforcing the city's dedication to public welfare, as they greenlit a significant increase to the local marijuana tax. As reported by the City of Littleton, Ballot Issue 3B, which called for a hike from 3% to 7% in retail marijuana sales tax, was passed with the intended purpose of bolstering public safety and addressing homelessness through better-resourced programs.

According to city officials, the projected $646,000 in additional annual revenue is slated to make a meaningful difference in how Littleton tackles mental health and safety challenges. Littleton Mayor Kyle Schlachter said, as obtained by the City of Littleton, "I am very appreciative of Littleton’s voters for once again supporting a financial investment in our community." He highlighted the initiative's benefits, particularly around funding mental health professionals and the local co-responder program. These programs are aimed at preemptively rather than reactively managing public safety and mental health crises.

The resolution reflects a growing recognition of cannabis as a viable economic resource for municipal advancements in social services. Delineated for a specific cause, the increased tax is an example of how local taxation can be harnessed to address concrete issues within the community. Funds are set to channel into programs like the Tri-Cities Homelessness Action Plan, which works collaboratively across multiple city jurisdictions to mitigate homelessness through proactive intervention and support services.

Election results, while pointing to a clear consensus among Littleton's populace, remain unofficial until they receive certification from the counties' boards of canvassers. Once validated, the new tax rate will commence its role in a broader strategy of community amelioration, a move that is reflective of Littleton's commitment to utilizing the fruits of legalization for the public good. In his remarks celebrating the initiative's approval, Mayor Schlachter underscored the depth to which the new revenues will go towards community support by aiding those "who need it most."