Press release from the Cher-Ae Heights Indian Community of the Trinidad Rancheria:

As Trinidad Rancheria’s Tribal Chairman, I must speak out and urge a No Vote on Measure A. Our community’s well-being, particularly regarding our environment, economy and job opportunities must be priority.

Humboldt County’s legal cannabis industry serves as an economic engine in our community. The existing regulatory framework balances the environment, economic growth and community safeguarding.

In 2016 and 2018, the Humboldt Board of Supervisors passed two land use ordinances and completed environmental review under CEQA to regulate and mitigate impacts of cannabis cultivation in Humboldt County. These ordinances and environmental analysis were developed through hundreds of hours of public input from people in every corner of the county - including cannabis cultivators, environmental groups, and neighborhood groups - as well as the county and state officials who would be responsible for program implementation.

Measure A introduces challenges that could harm our local economy. Adding hurdles for legal cannabis operations, risks further constriction of this vital industry, impacting both businesses and employees. Many of these individuals contribute to our economic vitality, spending locally and supporting small businesses. The stringent and rigid regulations it would enact would actually harm, not protect, small growers. Also, I object to the lack of public vetting and the proponents of Measure A submitting this Measure to the elections office without any public review.

Our Tribe joins the Board of Supervisors, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, and other local governments and urge a No Vote on Measure A.

Sincerely,

[Signature] 

Garth Sundberg (self)
Chair, Trinidad Rancheria

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