Title
a. Receive a report outlining the proposed framework and next steps for the implementation and funding of a local equity program; and
b. Adopt a resolution authorizing the Cannabis Program Manager to execute a grant agreement with the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development to receive grant funding to assist local equity applicants and licensees through a local equity program for commercial cannabis activities; and
c. Provide direction to staff as appropriate.
Report
RECOMMENDATIONS:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive a report outlining the proposed framework and next steps for the implementation and funding of a local equity program; and
b. Adopt a resolution authorizing the Cannabis Program Manager to execute a grant agreement with the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development to receive grant funding to assist local equity applicants and licensees through a local equity program for commercial cannabis activities; and
c. Provide direction to staff as appropriate.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION
In August 2021 the Cannabis Program ("Program") presented the findings of the equity assessment ("Assessment"), which was enabled through the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development ("GO-Biz") Tier 1 grant award. Staff was directed to develop an equity program structure and applicant criteria and return to the Board of Supervisors ("BoS") to gain policy direction. Staff has not prepared a formal cost analysis of the costs to support implementation of the proposed framework. However, the Go-Biz Tier 2 grant funding is anticipated to sufficiently fund the current scope, or the scope will need to be refined.
Staff has researched and reviewed equity programs in the County/City of San Francisco, City of Oakland, and Counties of Humboldt and Mendocino. Staff has prepared qualifying criteria and benefits for qualified applicants within the Proposed Equity Program Framework (Attachment A) for consideration. Staf...
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