In 2018, San Rafael voters endorsed Measure G, a city-sponsored plan to set new and higher taxes for the fledgling legal marijuana market.
It was a step in the city’s “toe in the water” approach toward opening the door to the 2016 approval of California’s recreational pot initiative. In San Rafael, 69% of its voters endorsed Proposition 64.
The city had estimated local marijuana production and sales — delivery only — could generate about $1 million per year for the city’s general fund.
That estimate fell far short of reality, as the special tax raised only $243,554 in its first calendar year.
That was almost two years ago.
This past year was a lot different. Local pot delivery sales have been on a record-setting pace.
What a difference a pandemic can make.