Cleveland officials want to put cannabis cash directly back into the community by funding local projects across the city.

When Ohioans voted to end prohibition, the big promise was that the tax revenue would actually help the people. In Cleveland, Councilman Richard Starr is working to make sure that cash doesn't just disappear into a massive government pot. He recently proposed an ordinance that would take half of the city’s cannabis tax earnings and put it directly into neighborhood equity funds. This would give local representatives the power to spend that money on specific community needs, like fixing up local parks or helping families with grocery cards.

Since the state started collecting that 10% tax at the register back in 2024, Cleveland has seen nearly a million dollars come back. While that might sound like a lot, it’s actually a bit lower than other major Ohio cities like Columbus or Cincinnati because Cleveland has fewer dispensaries. Currently, all that money goes into the General Fund to pay for basic city services. Starr’s goal is to ensure that the residents who actually supported legalization see the benefits right in their own backyards, rather than just funding a broad city budget.

For those of us who enjoy the plant, this is exactly the kind of "full circle" moment we love to see. It’s a great reminder that your purchases at a licensed shop do more than just get you right—they are actively contributing to the infrastructure of your city. When you're picking up your favorite flower or edibles, you're essentially helping fund a new playground or a local community program.

If you want to support this kind of local equity, keep an eye on how your city council handles these funds. It's always worth reaching out to your local representative to let them know you want to see that "green" money staying in the neighborhood. Staying engaged with local policy ensures that the legal market continues to grow in a way that remains fair, transparent, and beneficial for everyone in the community.