I have been a leagal cannabis farmer with lake county since 2020. My hope is leagal lake county farms provide jobs and spend moneuy locally to help lake county thrive economically. Keeping cultivation taxes low is important for farmers and the industy. In 2020 the prices per lb were 1000 dollars or more wholesale. Prices are currently 300-400 dollars per lbs of wholesale grade A. Please Approve this Temporary Reduction Of The Cannabis Cultiation Tax Through 2025.

Respectfully
Forest Nikola Elie
Founder Of CC Ranch Enterprise

I am writing to express my support for the resolution to extend the temporary reduction of the cannabis cultivation tax rate and to continue limiting the tax to the canopy area until there is market stability. I strongly oppose any overall increase in the cannabis tax rate at this time.

As having worked for both winegrape and cannabis growers in Lake County managing winery, vineyard, and compliance operations I have firsthand experience with the challenges facing our agricultural industries in Lake County. While traditional crops like pears, walnuts, and grapes have long been economic staples, the cannabis industry has quickly become a vital part of our agricultural landscape. However, like many in the sector, we are struggling with market declines, rising costs, and an increasingly difficult regulatory environment.

When the original tax passed the price was $1000/lb in 2019/2020, it is currently $200/lb and last year's high was $350. So at the current rate, it is still too high relative to the pound price; less than 30% of the original pricing when the tax passed. Basically at the reduced 50% rate but a 75% decline in pricing means the current rate is still more detrimental than the initial rates.

Given this context, I strongly oppose any proposed increases in the cannabis tax. The current economic climate is challenging enough without the added burden of higher taxes, which could push many cannabis farmers to the brink of collapse, much like other struggling agricultural sectors. This would reduce our ability to reinvest in operations, innovate, and remain competitive, leading to potential job losses and further economic decline in our community.

The cannabis industry, being newer and still developing, is particularly vulnerable to market instability and regulatory pressures. Increasing taxes now would stifle growth in this emerging sector and harm the broader economy of Lake County.

I urge policymakers to consider the broader implications of a tax increase on the cannabis industry. Maintaining the current tax levels is crucial for supporting the growth and sustainability of this industry. Cannabis, like grapes, pears, and walnuts, is vital to the economic health of Lake County. A tax increase at this time would be a step in the wrong direction with far-reaching negative consequences for our community.

Please extend this tax relief. This has helped so many small farmers stay in business. The ripple effect of the small farmer spending their money here in Lake County has a wider reach than a special tax. Keeping taxes low will help the small farmer stay in business and keep spending their money locally.

Small business is the backbone to our local economy.

Please extend the tax relief. The industry is in need of support now more than ever. Without this support many will lose their businesses and many people will be put out of work.

Please support the extension of the temporary reduction of the cannabis cultivation tax rate. The industry has been decimated by over-regulation and high taxes in recent years, causing record numbers of farms to go out of business. Tax relief has been the only saving grace for operations like ours in South Lake County. The success and survival of farms is also critical to the economic success of our county.