UPDATED: Klamath Falls approves Cannabis Measure for the ballot in November

Klamath Falls approves Cannabis Measure for the ballot in November

Klamath Falls, OR— Around 75 people were in attendance at the Klamath Falls City Council meeting Monday night to refer a decision regarding recreational marijuana to city voters in November.

An initiative petition filed by Marianne Yong and Edward Medina Jr. to allow recreational marijuana production and sales within the city and imposing a 3 percent tax on retail sales. The city clerk suggested that the first five people in support and opposition would be heard.

Marianne Yong, first to speak and owns and Operates Wholly Hemp Farm in Southern Oregon and is one of many residents in favor of the measure. “We are poised to design a strong cannabis industry designed just for Klamath Falls, OR. Other areas such as Medford, Bend, and Lakeview benefit from revived economies and strengthened workforces derived from sales that could be made here,” she said.

Ryan Huntsman, a retired Klamath County Sheriffs deputy, explained that Southern Oregon is a major player in black market trafficking of illegally produced marijuana. “Investigation and prosecution is the responsibility of local governments", which are “time and resource intensive", "While important, it takes time away from calls for service,” he said.

Ryan Huntsman who retired from the Klamath County Sheriff’s office in 2016 speaks out in support of legal recreational marijuana sales and regulation in Klamath Falls. Ryan Huntsman argued that legal sales would help with regulations and compliance.

Ed Medina Jr., owner of A Better Way Medicinal Alternatives, speaks out in support of legal recreational marijuana sales and regulation saying, “Cannabis is here,” and the city needs to “build a system that works for the community,” in Klamath Falls at the city council meeting Monday, Aug. 6.

Shannon Hand was one of two people who wished to speak out in opposition of recreational marijuana sales. “It is a gateway drug,” she said. “We’re not gaining anything we’re losing way too much. We can’t sacrifice our children we can’t sacrifice our workforce for the few dollars it’s gonna put in the pockets of our business people.” Shannon Hand said, "I didn't come with anything prepared to say."

"If you can't take the heat, stay out of the kitchen".

Councilman Bill Adams made clear before the vote that he did not support the measure. He said, “I think our hands are tied. I’m gonna vote in favor because we are required to put it on the ballot and it’s the right thing to do because the signatures were gathered, but I oppose the measure.”

Monday night the City Council affirmed receipt of 1,864 valid signatures. The Klamath Falls City Council voted Monday night to refer a decision regarding recreational marijuana to city voters in November.