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Extracted from Consolidated Report

This investigation was originally published as part of a larger consolidated report containing multiple investigations. View the consolidated PDF for the complete document.

Score: -3 (2/5/5)
Monterey County Grand Jury • 2023-2024

Monterey Fire Department: Overdue for Overhaul

30 pages
View PDF View Full Original

Findings 8 findings

F1 Page 53
Current revenues do not provide sufficient margins over expenses to fund community services at prior years' levels. Without operational changes, the Cannabis Program's sustainability is in jeopardy, and future funding for community services from this source will be minimal and/or unavailable.
F2 Page 53
The 2020 Cannabis Program Strategic Plan, intended to be updated every two years, was not revised until January 2024, causing delays in assessing key metrics and whether program goals are being met.
F3 Page 53
Current tax rates have stabilized. Revenues for FY 2024-25 are projected to be consistent with prior years, contributing to the Program's sustainability if Program expenses are aligned with revenues.
F4 Page 53
An internal audit of the Cannabis Program, recommended by the Citygate Report, was not completed, thus risking inefficient operating practices and the potential for inaccurate record keeping. (cid:3) (cid:3) 38 (cid:3) (cid:3) (cid:3) (cid:3)
F5 Page 54
More than 50 cannabis businesses have closed or filed bankruptcy leaving the County with $6M in unpaid taxes, resulting in reduced revenues for community services.
F6 Page 54
A community survey indicated that a high priority for cannabis tax revenues should be allocated toward drug education and prevention. However, only a small fraction of the cannabis tax revenues has been allocated toward such programs. The lack of funding for these programs is inconsistent with community priorities and increases the potential for drug abuse and death.
F7 Page 54
Illicit activities are one of several major factors contributing to the reduction in funds available for community needs.
F8 Page 54
Criminal/Civil penalties for most illicit business activities may be adjudicated as a misdemeanor by the District Attorney’s office with less than a year probation and/or a fine of $1,000 or less, resulting in an ineffective deterrent system.

Recommendations 9

Agency Responses 6

Government agencies' official responses to this report's findings and recommendations. Click on a response to see the structured breakdown.