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Home My WebLink AboutLeague of CA Cities - Appv 2014 Impct of Illegal Marijuana Grows f CITY OF PALM DESERT r OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER STAFF REPORT REQUEST: PROVIDE DIRECTION TO THE CITY'S LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES VOTING DELEGATE TO APPROVE THE 2014 ANNUAL CONFERENCE RESOLUTION, CONCERNING THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF ILLEGAL MARIJUANA GROWS ON BOTH PRIVATE AND PUBLIC LANDS THROUGHOUT CALIFORNIA. SUBMITTED BY: Stephen Y. Aryan, Risk Manager DATE: August 28, 2014 CONTENTS: League of California Cities 2014 Annual Conference Resolution Packet Recommendation By Minute Motion, authorize the City of Palm Desert's League of California Cities voting delegate to approve the 2014 Annual Conference Resolution (Illegal Marijuana Grows). Committee Recommendation The City's Legislative Review Committee is scheduled to meet after the 2014 League of California Cities Annual Conference; therefore, there was not an opportunity to review this matter with this advisory board. Backqround This year's annual League of California Cities Conference will be held September 3-5, 2014, in Los Angeles. The City of Palm Desert's League of California Cities voting delegate is Councilmember Jan Harnik. At the Annual Conference, the League will consider one resolution concerning illegal marijuana grows and they encourage each city to determine its position on this resolution, so that their voting delegate can properly represent them. This resolution seeks to highlight the environmental and public safety issues triggered by illegal marijuana cultivation. It calls upon the League, Governor, and Legislature to take action by convening a summit to address the environmental impacts of such cultivation sites. It also calls upon the State of California to provide solutions in response, include sufficient funding to decisively address the problem. Illegal marijuana cultivation is causing extreme environmental degradation including habitat destruction, illegal water diversion, the loss of wildlife, and pollution. It is expensive to remediate such environmental destruction that impacts federal, state, local, tribal, and private property. The presence of illegal marijuana growing sites on state and federal public lands also creates unsafe conditions for visitors. These lands are managed with taxpayer support and are intended to be for the public's enjoyment. League of California Cities Annual Conference Resolution August 28, 2014 Page 2 of 2 Although the City of Palm Desert is not directly impacted by marijuana grows within our community, staff recommends the City's League voting delegate approve this resolution to signify Palm Desert's support of those Northern California counties and communities where this issue is more prominent. Fiscal Analvsis There is no direct fiscal impact related to the City's voting delegate supporting this resolution. Submitted By: CITY COU�TCILA�ION APl'ROVI:D DF,NiTD RI:C�[VED OTHER Risk ,�na MFrTiNG I)ATE �Z ^� Steph Y. A n, � AYeS��pn, «;�K �ec1et t1JQ,b�er Ta.h� --F�-�-� � Appr al: Nnrs: N�rb �I3�r�.;vT: No� --� Ai3STAliV: No� � l�f?��1P1[�:D �;v, � r rv► Oi•Q;;'sna9 on I�ilc with City Clcrk's Office o n M. Wohlmuth, City Manager ��,�, �: �„<,,�� LEAGUE�� tin�unn�i�Ni<i,('r1')iSl�i ��, ��c(')1l;)(,tili.h?(10 0, '^'�- O�� C�/�� ()IiN Il� i��1`)I(,)h�t;-ti'�IO ��r•�_ C 1 T I E S _,_,._� ,� u��;, ,�. July 14,2014 TO: Mayors,City Managers and City Clerks League Board of Directors RE: Annua] Conference Resolutions Packet Notice of League Annual Meeting Enclosed please find the 2014 Annual Conference Resolutions Packet. Annual Conference in Los Angeles.This year's League Annual Conference will be held September 3-5 in Los Angeles. The conference announcement has previously been sent to all cities and we hope that you and your colleagues will be able to join us. More information about the conference is available on the League's Web site at www.cacities.org/ac. We look forward to welcoming city officials to the conference. Annual LuncheonBusiness Meeting-Friday, September 5, 12:00 p.m.The League's Annual Business Meeting will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Resolutions Packet.At the Annual Conference,the League will consider the one resolution introduced by the deadline, Saturday,July 5,2014,midnight.The resolution is included in this packet. Resolutions submitted to the General Assembly must be concurred in by five cities or by city officials from at least five or more cities.These letters of concurrence are included with this packet. We request that you distribute this packet to your city council. We encourage each city council to consider the resolution and to determine a city position so that your voting delegate can represent your city's position on each resolution.A copy of the resolution packet is posted on the League's website for your convenience: www.caciti�s.or /�res�lutions. The resolutions packet contains additional information related to consideration of the resolution at the Annual Conference.This includes the date, time and location of the meetings at which the resolution will be considered. Voting Delegates.Each city council is encouraged to designate a voting delegate and two alternates to represent their city at the Annual Business Meeting.A letter asking city councils to designate their voting delegate and two alternates has already been sent to each city. Copies of the letter,voting delegate form,and additional information are also available at: www.cacities.org/resolutions. The deadline for submitting a voting delegate form prior to the Annual Conference is August 15,2014. i---------------------------------------------------------, ; Please Bring This Packet to the Annual Conference � ; September 3—5, Los Angeles � ---------------------------------------------------------- ��;��.�>.,_...,, Q (.) 1= C�f1, l. i i�C..) E�.N 1 � �lnnual Confe�ence Resolutions Packet 2014 Annual Conference Resolutions V4 �P?JP C�,.. �. D.a ;. �� :�i � �.h,��9� `; 9� �,,�;��{ ��. ��yl�y°�� i;;` � i 116th Annual Conference Los Angeles Septembe� 3 - 5, 20�4 INI+'ORMATION AND PROCCDURES RESOLLITIONS CONTA[NCU IN 7'HIS PACKCT: 'The League bylaws provide that resolutions shall be refened by the president to an appropriate policy committee for review and recommendation. Resolutions with committee recormnendations shall then be considered by the General Resolutions Committee at the Annua] Conference. This year,one resolution has been introduced for consideration by the Annual Conference and referred to the League policy committees. 1'OLICY COMMITTEES: Twa policy committees will meet at the Annual Conference to consider and take action on the resolution referred to thern.The comrnittees are Environmental Quality and Public Safety. These committees will meet on Wednesday, September 3,2014,at the JW Marriott Hotel in Los Angeles. The sponsor of the resolution has been notified of the time and location of the rneetings. GENERAL R.ESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE: This committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 4,at the Los Angeles Convention Center,to consider the reports of the two policy committees regarding the resolution. This cornmittee includes one representative from each of the League's regional divisions,functional departments and standing policy cornmittees,as well as other individuals appointed by the League president. Please check in at the registration desk for room location. ANNUAL LUNCHEONBUSINESS MEETING/GENERAL ASSEMBLY:This meeting will be held at 12:00 p.m.on Friday, September 5,at the Los Angeles Convention Center. PETITIONED ItESOLUTIONS: For those issues that develop after the normal 60-day deadline, a resolution may be introduced at the Annual Conference with a petition signed by designated voting delegates of 10 percent of all member cities(47 valid signatures required)and presented to the Voting Delegates Desk at least 24 hours prior to the time set for convening the Annual Business Session of the General Assembly. This year,that deadline is 12:00 p.m.,Thursday, September 4. If the petitioned resolution is substantially similar in substance to a resolution already under consideration,the petitioned resolution may be disqualified by the General Resolutions Committee. Resolutions can be viewed on the League's Web site: www.cacities.or�lresolutions. Any questions concerning the resolutions procedures may be directed to Meg Desmond at the League office: mdesinond�cacities.org or(916)658-8224 GUIDELINES FOR ANNUAL CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS Policy development is a vital and ongoing process within the League.The principal means for deciding policy on the important issues facing cities is through the Lelgue's ei�ht standing policy committees and the board of directors.'I'he process allows for timely consideration of issues in a chan�ing environment and assures city officials the opportunity to both initiate a��d in�luence policy decisions. Annual conference resolulions consiitute an additional way to develop L,eague policy. Resolutions should adhere to the following criteria. Cuidelines for Annual Conference Resolutions 1. Only issues that have a direct bearing on municipal affairs should be considered or adopted at the Annual Conference. 2. The issue is not of a purely local or regional concern. 3. The recornmended policy should not simply restate existing League policy. 4. The resolution should be directed at achieving one of the following objectives: (a) Focus public or media attention on an issue of major importance to cities. (b) Establish a new direction for League policy by establishing general principals around which more detailed policies may be developed by policy committees and the board of directors. (c) Consider important issues not adequately addressed by the policy cornmittees and board of directors. (d) Amend the League bylaws(requires 2/3 vote at General Assembly). LOCATION OF MEETINGS Policv Committcc Mcetings Wednesday, Sepiember 3,2014 JW Marriott Los Angeles Hotel 900 Wesi Olympic IIoulevard,Los An�eles Environmental Quality: 9:00 a.�n.— 10:30 a.m. Public Safety: 10:30 a.m.— 12:00 p.m. General Resolutions Committee Thursday, September 4,2014, 1:00 p.m. Los Angeles Convention Center 1201 South Figueroa Street,Los Angeles Annual Business Meeting and General Assemblv Luncheon Friday, September 5,2013, 12:00 p.m. Los Angeles Convention Center 1201 South Figueroa Street,Los Angeles KEY TO ACTIONS TAKEN ON RESOLUTIONS Resoluiions have been grouped by policy committees to which they have been assi�n�ed. Nurnber Ke Word Index Rcviewin>Bod Action 1 2 3 1 -Policy Committee Recommendalion to General Resolutions Committee 2-General Resoluiions Committee 3 -General Assembly ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY POLICY COMMITTEE 1 2 3 1 Ille al Marijuana Grow Site I PUBLIC SAFCTY POLICY COMMITTEE 1 2 3 1 Ille al Marijuana Grow Site � Information pertaining to the Annual Conference Resolutions will also be posted on each committee's page on the League website: www.cacities.orQ. The entire Resolutions Packet will be posted at: www.caci ties.org/resol utions. KEY TU AC'I'IONS'I'AK�N ON RESOLUTIONS(Cnntirru��d) Resolutions have been �,n•ouped by policy committees to which ihey have been assigned. KEY TO 1tEVI�WING BODIES KEY TO ACTIONS TAK�N l. Policy Committee A Approve 2. General Resolutions Committee D Disa�prove 3. General Assembly N No Action R Refer to appropriate policy comrnittee for study ACTION FOOTNOTES a Amend+ * Subject matter covered in another resolution Aa Approve as amended+ ** Existing League policy Aaa Approve with additional amendment(s}+ *** Local authority presently exists Ra Refer as amended to appropriate policy committee for study+ Raa Additional amendments and refer+- Da Amend(for clarity or brevity) and Disapprove+ Na Amend(for clarity or brevity)and take No Action+ W Withdrawn by Sponsor Procedural Note: Resolutions that are approved by the General Resolutions Committee,as well as all qualified petitioned resolutions,are reported to the floor of the General Assembly. In addition,League policy provides the following procedure for resolutions approved by League policy committees but not approved by the General Resolutions Committee: Resolutions initially recommended for approval and adoption by all the League policy committees to which the resolution is assigned,but subsequently recommended for disapproval,referral or no action by the General Resolutions Committee,shall then be placed on a consent agenda for consideration by ihe General Assembly. The consent agenda shall include a brief description of the basis for the recommendations by both the policy committee(s)and General Resolutions Committee,as well as the recommended action by each. Any voting delegate may make a motion to pull a resolution from the consent agenda in order to request the opportunity to fully debate the resolution. If,upon a majority vote of the General Assembly,the request for debate is approved,the General Assembly shall have the opporiunity to debate and subsequently vote on the resolution. 2014 ANNUAL COl'�1FERENCE RESOLUTIONS RC50LtJTION REFERREI)7'O ENVIRONM�NTAL OIJALITY AND PUBLIC SAFETY POLICY COMMITTE�S 1. A R�SOLUTION CALLING UPON TH�GOVERNOR AND THE LEGISLATURE TO CONVENE A SUMMIT TO ADDRESS THE DEVASTATING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF ILL�GAL MARIJUANA GROWS ON BOTI3 PRIVATF,AND PUBLIC LANDS THROtIGHOUT CALIFURNIA AND THE INCREASING PROBLEMS TO PUBLIC SAFETY RELATED TO THESE ACTIVITIES BY WORKING IN PARTN�RSHIP WITN THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES TO DEVELOP RESPONSIVE SOL,UTIONS AND TO SECURE ADEQUATE FUNDING FOR COST-EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES. Source: Redwood Empire Division Concurrence of f ve or more cities/citv officials: Cities of Arcata; Blue Lake; Clearlake; Cloverdale; Crescent City;Eureka;Fort Bragg;Healdsburg;Lakeport;Trinidad;and Ukiah Referred to: Environmental Quality and Public Safety Policy Committees Recommendation to General Resolutions Committee: WHEREAS,public concerns in response to widespread damage to fish and wildlife resources and degradation to Califoinia's environnient, and threats to public safety resulting from illegal marijuana cultivation statewide requires urgent action by the Governor and the Legislature,and WHEREAS, local governments and the public support the State's primary objectives in cornplying with environmental laws including the Clean Water Act,Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act,and Endangered Species Act and are supported by substantial public investments at all levels of government to maintain a healthy and sustainable environment for future citizens of California,and WHEREAS,illegal marijuana cultivation activities include habitat destruction and fragmentation,poaching wildlife,illegal water diversions,unregulated use of fertilizers,pesticides, insecticides,rodenticides,soil amendments contaminating land and waters without regard for the cumulative impacts to tl�e environrnent or public health,and WHEREAS,changing global climate conditions are posing escalated threats in California to health,well-being,nature and property; as evidenced by critical water shortages across the state due to prolonged drought conditions,and WHEREAS,illegal water diversion for the purpose of cultivating marijuana plantations poses a direct threat to California's endangered and threatened anadromous fish species,including coho salmon, Chinook salmon,steelhead trout and other aquatic species,especially at critical life phases during seasonally low flow conditions;and WHEREAS,California is a leader in the global effort to fight climate change and is pursuing a broad,integrated strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve energy,yet in a recent Lawrence Livermore Lab study estimated that upwards of 10%of electricity usage statewide can be attributed to indoor marijuana cultivation;these sites are often the causation of fires and home invasion incidents due to criminal activity,and WHEREAS,thc presence of illegal marijuana growin�sites on Slate and federal public lands is creating unsafe conditions for visitors; these lands are taxpayer supported and intended to be managed for recreation,resource conservation and the enjoyment by the public,and WHEREAS,increasing violence and threats to pnblic safety related to illegal marijuana grows is coniributin�;to a sense of lawlessness and impacting nearby communities where criminal activities are expanding,and WH�R�AS, the issue of illegal marijuana grows has reached a crisis level across the state as evidenced by the murder of former League Board member,Fort B��agg Councillnember and veteran forester Jere Melo who was fatally sl�ot down while investigating a report of a marijuana�row on private timberlands in northern California. RESOLVED,at the League General Assembly,assembled at the League Annual Conference on September 5,2014 in Los Angeles,that the League calls for the Governor and the Legislature to work with the League and other stakeholders to convene a summit to address the devastating environmental impacts of illegal marijuana grows on both private and public lands and the inereasing problems to public safety related to these activities. FURTHER RESOLVED,ihat the League will work with its member cities to educate State and federal officials regarding emerging concerns from their communities and citizenry and to the challenges facing local governments. Therefore,we request the Governor and the Legislature to work with the League to provide responsive solutions with adequate funding support and effective State and federal government leadership to address widespread environmental damage and associated threats to public safety impacting every region in the State of California. ////////// Back�round Information on Resolution No. 1 Source: Redwood Empire Division Background: When California voters approved Proposition 215 in 1996 there was little thought given to a wide range of problems which have emerged in association with the increased availability and demand for marijuana. Cities within the Redwood Empire Division have grappled with the impacts of illicit marijuana grow sites for decades. Yet in recent years the environmental degradation from marijuana growing operations and public safety threats has grown exponenrially. In 2011, Fort Bragg City Council Member Jere Melo was fatally shot while investigating illegal marijuana cultivation on private timber lands in Mendocino County. Illegal marijuana cultivation activities are causing extreme environmental degradation including habitat destruction and fragmentation, illegal water diversions,killing and poisoning wildlife,unregulated use of fertilizers, pesticides, rodenticides contaminating land and polluting waters without regard for the cumulative impacts to the environment and the public's health and safety. It is expensive to remediate this environmental destruction that often destroys significant, federal, state, local, tribal and private investrnents in restoring or protecting the sunounding landscape. Public concern for widespread, landscape-level environmental damage resulting from unregulated gowing operations and escalating violent crimes associated with the marijuana industry has reached a tipping point across the state. The Redwood Empire Division joins with other cities throughout the state in a call for acrion to reverse these trends. Current Aroblem Facin�California's Cities: Cities throughout California state have struggled with regulating medical marijuana dispensaries and ��row houses along with the associated coimnunity impacts of tl�ose facilities and land use activities. Many unforeseen environmenlal impacts and public safet}�concerns are now emerging as a consequence of increased production and demand for marijuana. Critical water shortages across the state due to prolonged drought conditions have resulted in the Gouernor declaring a Drought State of Emergency. Illegal water diversions for the purposes of cultivating marijuana plantations are increasrng throughout the state. These activities impact agricultural production and domestic water use. The cumulative impacts to watershed health are considerable and pose direct threats to California's salmon, trout and other sensitive aquatic species, especially at eritical life stages during seasonally low flow conditions. In addition,under drought conditions, the risk of fire is elevated. The presence of marijuana �*row sites in fire prone areas contributes to potential wildfire risks at the Wildland/Urban Interface. The presence of illegal marijuana growing sites on state and federal public lands creates unsafe conditions for visitors. These lands are managed with taxpayer support and are intended to be for enjoyment by the public,recreation and conservation. However,the increasing level of violence and threats to public safety related to illegal rnarijuana grows on both private and public lands are contributing to a sense of lawlessness and impacting nearby communities where criminal activities are expanding. The lack of oversight of marijuana cultivation operations to ensure compliance with existing state and federal environmental regulations is impacting water quality and quantity statewide. The current legal and regulatory framework is inadequate to address numerous environmental issues, as well as public health and safety. Redwood Empire Division Resolution: The Division's resolution seeks to address the devastating environmental impacts of illegal marijuana grows on both private and public lands throughout California and the rising threat to public safety relating to these illegal sites. The resolution will provide the League with the direction to call upon the Governor and State Legislature to convene a summit to develop responsive solutions, and secure adequate funding for implementation strategies. The issues surrounding marijuana production and distribution are complex and require a comprehensive statewide approach. California cities need to have a strong voice in this process. The mission of the League of California Cities is to enhance the quality of life for all Californians and we believe that our strength]ies in the unity of our diverse communities on issues of mutual concern. ////////// Lea�ue of California Cities Staff Analvsis on Resolution No. 1 Staff: Tim Cromartie(916)658-8252 Committee: Public Safety Policy Committee Summarv• This Resolution seeks to highlight the environmental and public safety issues triggered by illegal marijuana cultivation,and calls upon the League,the Governor and the Legislature to take action by convening a summit to address the environmental impacts of such cultivation sites. It also calls upon the State of California to provide solutions in response,including sufficient funding to decisively address the problem. BackQround: The sponsor af this resolution argues that when California voters approved Proposition 215 in 1996,little thought was given to a wide range of problems which have emerged in association with the increased availability and demand for marijuana. Cities within the Redwood Einpire Division have grappled with the impacts of illicit marijuana cultivation sites for decades.Yet in recent years the environmental degradation from marijuana growing operations and public safety threats has grown exponentially. In 2011,Fort Bragg City Council Member Jere Melo was fatally shot while investigatin�illegal marijuana cultivation on private timber lands in Mendocino County. Illegal marijuana cultivation activities are causing extreme envirotunental de�,�radation including habitat destruction and fragmentation,illegal water diversions,killing and poisoning wildlife,unregulated use of fertilizers,pesticides,rodenticides contaminating land and polluting waters without regard for the cumulative irnpacts to the environment and the public's he�lth and safety. It is expensive to remediate this environmental destruction which often destroys significant,federal,state,local,tribal and private investments in restoring or protecting the surrounding landscape. Crirical water shortages across the state due to prolonged drought conditions have resulted in the Governor declaring a Drought State of Emergency. Illegal water diversions for the purposes of cultivating marijuana plantations are increasing throughout the state. These activities impact agriculiural production and domestic water use. The cumulative impacts to watershed health are considerable and pose direct threats to California's salmon,trout and other sensitive aquatic species,especially at critical life stages during seasonally low flow conditions. In addition,under drought conditions,the risk of fire is elevated.The presence of marijuana grow sites in fire prone areas contributes to potential wildfire risks at the WildlandlUrban Interface. The lack of oversight of marijuana cultivation operations to ensure compliance with existing state and federal environmental regulations is impacting water quality and quantity statewide. The current legal and regulatory framework is inadequate to address numerous environmental issues,as well as public health and safety. Public concern for widespread environmental damage resulting from unregulated growing operations and escalating violent crimes associated with the marijuana industry has reached a tipping point across the state. The Redwood Empire Division joins with other cities throughout the state in a call for action to reverse these trends. Note: T'he League of Cities has joined with the California Police Chiefs Association to co-sponsor legislation, SB 1262(Correa),to establish a regulatory scheme for medical marijuana that protects local control,addresses the public safety concerns triggered by marijuana regulation,and imposes health and safety standards on marijuana for the first time. However,the measure does not address environmental issues,due to the expense and complexity associated with adding that objective to a bill that already has far-reaching regulatory goals combined with a critical need to contain state costs. Fiscal Impact: If the policy advocated by the Resolution is implemented by the state,there will be ongoing and unspecified costs to the State General Fund for enforcement activities,primarily in the rural counties where many of the illicit marijuana cultivation sites are located. Conservatively,the annual costs could run in the hundreds of thousands to low millions to patrol likely grow sites,crack down on illegal water diversion activities,and provide consistent environmental clean-up made necessary by illegal rodenticides and pesticides. Comment• To assure succe.cs,counties will liave to be aciively involved in any policy change geared toward rigorous and cansistcnt e;nforcement against illegal mari,juana�rc�ws,b*iven the fact diat many of the cultivation sites are located in rural areas under the direct authority oC county�overnments. This will require a dialogue with counties,durinb which llie questian of local political wil] to enforce the law, in addition to securing fhe necessary funding,will arise. If counties shouid opt not to play an active part in an agb�ressive enforcemeni strale�;y,tl�e chances of success are questionable. Existin�League Policv: Related to tl�is Resolution,existing policy provides: • The League opposes the legalization of marijuana cultivation and use for non-medicinal purposes. • Reaffirniing that local control is paramount,the League holds that cities should have the authority to regulate medical marijuana dispensaries,cooperatives,collectives or other distribution points if the regulation relates to location,operation or establishment to best suit the needs of the community. • The League affirms that revenue or other financial benefits from creating a statewide tax str-ucture on medical marijuana should be considered only after the public safety and health ramifications are fully evaluated. LETTERS OF CONCUI��RENCE Resolution No. 1 Illegal Marijuana Grow Site Ci�� a�' '�--�"-b'c�.'��`--'�' C:ity Mniin�cr finoirmimci�cal Seruices Police R�creutir»i �,,,. �.,� � ,N (707) 822•5953 8'l2•8184 H22•2=128 822•7091 ��•'•� •�i x.� �, ��.. Conur�iauty 1leucloprnenl Finrtnce Puhlir U��Ot'I(S 7YQ715�01'CUCI011 �"` = �.^ '�'•` :`�':�`:..< 1''� B22•59.55 Fi22•5951 812•5957 822•3"l75 4 �C.1�'�M 736 F Street /�rca[a, CA 95511 J�,�ly 2, 2014 Jose Cisneros, President League of C�lifornia Cities f 400 K Street, Suite �00 Sacramento, CA 95 R I 4 R�: Envirpnmentnl and Pub(ic Safety Impaels of Iltegal Msirijuuna Grows Resotution Dear President Cisneros; The Arcata City Council supports the Redwaod Empire Division's effort to submit a resoluiion fUr consideration by the Genera! Assembly at the Leagi�e's 2014 Annual Confei•ence in Los Angeles. The Division's resolution seeks to address the devastating environmental impacts of illegal marijuana grows on boih private and public lands throughout Calitornia,and the inereasing threat to public sai'ety relating to these illegal sites. Tt1e resolutian will provide the League with ti�e direction to call upon the Governor and Staie Legislature to convene a summit to develop responsive solutions and to secure adequate funding foi•implementation strategies. ALL of the rural areas adjacent to the City of Arcata and throughout Humboldt County have been greatly affected by the devastating environmental impacts af illegal marijuana grows! As members of the League, our city values the policy development process provided to the General Assemb3y. We appreciate your time on ti�'ts issue. Please feel free to contacl me at any time at mwheelley@cityofarcata.org if you ilave a��y questions. Sincerely, ��''�' ,.-"� . � f��tarlt l�. �A�heeilcy, Mayor cc: ICathryn Murray, President, Redwood Empice Division,c!o Sara Rounds, Regional Public Affaii•s Manager, LOCC Red�a�ood Empi�•e Division, via email srounds a cacities.org CITY OF BLUE LAKE Past 01'fice Box 458, 1 l l Greenwood Road, Biue i.akc, CA 95525 Phone 707.668.5655 Fax 7U7.668.5916 June 30,2014 Josc Cisneros,President League of California Cities 1400 K Sireet, Suite 400 Sacrarnento, CA 9�814 it�: Environmental and Public Safet��Ianpacts of Tllegal Marijuana Grows Resolation Dear President Cisneros: The CiTy of Blue Lake supports the Redwood Em}�ire Division's effort to subnut a resolution for consideratian by the General Assembly at the League's 20I4 Annual Conferet�ce in Los A.ngales. The Division's resalution seelcs ta address the devastating enviranmental impacts of illegal marijuana grows on boih private and pt�blic lands tl�roughout Calzfornia and ihe increasing threat to pubtic safety relating to these illegal sites. ��e resolution will provide the League with the direction to call upon the Governor and StAte Legislature to convene a summit to develop responsive solutions and to secure adequate funding for implementation strategies. As members of the League,our city values the poticy development process provided to fhe General l�ssembly, We appreciate your tiine on this issue. Please feel free to contact Lana Ma��zanita,Mayor Pro-Te�n at 707-497-8159 or joc2zitlierl rr,gmail.eom,if you lzave any questians. Sincerel j �Gea- �� Ge�l�-�1� ��C�--� �� — ��..� � � Lana Manzanita Mayor Pro-Tem City of Blue Lak.e cc; Ka.thryn Murray, President,Redwood Empire Division c/o Sara Rounds,Regianal Public Affairs Manager,I OCC Redwood Empire Uivision, srounds�a�,cacities.or� , � �� City of �learlake 14050 Olympic Drive, Clearlake, California 95422 (707) 994-8201 �ax (707) 995-2653 .. , •� .,., July 2, 20]4 Jose Cisneros, President League o�'Califarnia Cities 1400 K Street, Suite�00 Sacramento, CA 958I4 RE: Enviranmental and Public Safet}� Impacts of Illegal Marijuana Grovc�s Resolution Dear President Cisneros: The City of Clearlake supports the Redwaod Empire Division's eifort to subin.it a resolution for consid.eration by the Cieneral Assembly at the League's 201.4 Annual Canference in Los Angeles. Tl�e Division's resoluiion seeks to address the devastatin� environmental i.mpacts of illegal marijuana grows on both private and public lands throughout California and the increasing tlueat to }�ublic safety relating to ihese illegal sites. The resolution wil] provid.e the League witll the direction to call upon the Gove�nor and State Legislature to convene a sui�nmit to devetop responsive solutions and to secure adequate filnding for implenlentation strategies. The City of Clearlake is eaperiencing significant issues with illegal grows in the city liniits. Individuals are squatting on lands not belonging to theil� and planiing large grows. Grows are being planted near and along creelts gaing through the city wifl� unknown substances potentially Leeching into the waterways, Othez•s are rentii�g praperties and clear cutting then� of oak and atlier trees for plant sites often wi.thout the lalowiedge of the prope��ty owner. Holneowners tell ot not being able tfl enjoy tl�eir own properties with grow sites x�ext to them creating untenable odors, spe�ving of fc�ul language and concern of threats to their personal safety if they coinpiain. We hear often tlie concern of increased crime due to the grows in the city. As a rneinber of the League, our city values the poticy cievelopivent process provided to the General Assembly. We appreciate your time on this issue. Please fee! free to contact Joan Phillipe at 707-994-8201 x120 or city.administrator@clearlake.ca.us, if you have any questions. Sincerely, f � ` � Jo L. Ph.itlipe City Manager ce: [Cath�yn Mui�ay, President, Redwood Empire Division c/o Sara Rowlcis, Regioi�al Aublic Affairs Manager, LOCC Redwood Cmpire Di�ision, sround.�(c�cacities,org �!ir� CCTY OI� � L CJ V E IZI.� �l L E . June 25, 2014 Jose Cisneros, Presidenl League of California Cities l 400 K Street, Suite 400 Sacramento, CA 95814 RE: �nvironmental and Public Safety Impacts of Ille�al Marijuana Grows Resolution Deaz President Cisneros: The City of Cloverdale supports the Redwood Empixe Division's eff.ort to submit a resolution for consideratian by the General Assembly at the League's 2014 Amival Conference in Los .Angeles. The Division's resolutioi� seeks to address tlie devastalin�environrnental irnpacts of illegal marijuana grows on both private and public Iands through.out California and the increasing threat to public safel;y relatiiag to these illegal sites. The resolution will provide the League with the direction to call upon the Governor and State Legislature to convene a summit to develop responsive solutions and to secure adequate funding for implementation strategies. Throughout the Redwood Empire regian including the City of Cloverdale,illegal marijuana grows negatively impact our eiivironmental healil�and public safety. Last year,the Cloverdale Police Departrneizt eradicated over 300 plants witlun aur City Limits. Please note that Cloverdale is a total of 2.5 square rniles. 'These plants use scarce water r.esources during a water shorta.ge emergency caused by the cunen.t drought and contribute to lawlessness that threat�the public safety of our citizens. On a personal level,the City of Cloverdale continues#o be heartsick for the loss of City of Fort Bragg Council Member JereMelo. Jere was murdered as a result of investigating an illegal marijuana grow. Jere was an exceptional leader in our region,the League of California.Cities and the State of California. The City of Cloverdale misses him gxeatly. As members of the League, our city values the golicy development process provided ta the General Assembly. We appreciate your time on this issue.Please feel free to contact Cloverdale City Mana.ger Pau]Cayler at 707-894-1710,if you have any questions. Sincerely, �'�:-t--N� �.._.___�.__ c�,� �`�� Carol Russell Mayor City of Cloverdale cc: Kathryn Murray,President, Redwood Empire Divisioil c/o Sara Rounds,Regivnal PubIic Affairs Manager,LOCC Redwood Empire Division, �7'()l.ttl C{S:�;c:aC-911 t'S,t'r�'{.� �� -,.. r .� ;? u :r��;� .�,::,. , . � • E r�,`:.ar"�� 1^;`+� i � p' f� J j H,. n ti� � 4 ,� r� RJ C '� , r t �„ � � y ,.v,i „� :;�5' �s "� ,�`3 c w n.��7aKSr � _ '.`;?� +'�.. '�'�'r ��9� � . "70'7-465�+441�5 t�',i�7t1. , �t{aqor r,ick f{alle� '" �or�or,''3`0 7em+�nn Gzct'o�cau (;c�tutril R4r�nbcr Richru�d i:nen "t:cauncil Mcmbcr lia�ll}�'i�•F�clinne"C:nunril Memt�rr F�nthnm fvfi.irra}� CSr��C'Ic•ri•:koina�� I'ai�rh "Citt�Atiornr,•��liolu�rt N. HJsir); ' (:�ip�)a�ma�;i�r E•:u�;cnr h7. f'til�aizc� .�1J1]C ?.i, �t)�4 � Jo,�; Cisne7'r�s, I'resiclent Le�guc c>f Califin-nia C`iCics 14OO l� Sireei, Suite 400 SUCi'i1111G1L0, C;1� �)�til�l RL:: Etavi�'o�7tt7enk�l n�atl .I'ul.tiic 5a1'ety lmpacts of'Cile�al l�-Z�irijuana Grows Itesolutian De��r l�resident C;isneros: The C:ity uf Crescent C'iiV supports Qze Redwoc�cl Ln�}�iz-e Divi�ion's e('i:c�ri tc� sul�rnic �l resnlulio�l ('c>r cc�nsicicratit�r� by ihc Ge�iera.l As:;eil7bly t�t t1.ic Lea�ue's 201� A»nual Cuiiference in Lc�s rl.ndelc:s. 1"l�e Uivisioil's reso]ution scel;.s ta address the de�j�stating envirc�i.tmei.rial im.pacts of ille�;11 rn�irijttana gro�t�s on buth priv,�ie and publi� la»ds t1n•ou�,�hout.C;�(iforni�� and tlie increasii}g tl.ireat to pul�lic satety relati.n� to the:e ille��l sites. The resc�lutian. �vi13 prc�vide the Leac�e tivith the direction (n call u�ao�.� t3�� Gc>vern�r a�.�.ii Statc: Le�isl.ature co convene ea sun�larit i� develop responsive solutions �ncl tci secure adequate funding f:or implemei�t:ttion str�te�ies. Illegal niaizjuai�a �rows have a de��astatin�impact on die Sta.te anri tederal puhlic lands surr.oui�d.ing our communi(y. Tl�ey create uns�ife c�nditians for �ur visilors. 1'h.e use of �xnreguIateci fertiiizers, pcsticides, insecticides and re�denticide:s cc�ntaminate tfie la.nd and gro�ind water. As memhers of thc-; Leaeue, our city values the Pc�iicy developmc��t process provided fo il�e Ge��er��l �.ssembiy. We �pprec:iate your time an this issue. I'lease fe.el free t� coi�tict �u�ez�e Falazzo, City Mlanager at 7EJ7-4b4-7�53 cx 23? or c�}alazzo(c'c;ci-escenTciCy.org, if you hav°e any questions. Sincerely, �f/�=�6 !+� � R i c3i 1rc1 I-Io 31ey M ayo�- C'rescent C'.t.ty cc: Kfithryn Murray, 1'resicjent, Red«ood Gm��ire TJivisian c10 Snra Ro��nds, Regic�nt�l Public Aftiiirs Nlana�cr, LC)C"C rc;�i��ood En��ire Di��isio��, sroundsCi-c�cities,or� �„�_........�...,,,..._w�..�.....�......._.,_...v_.�.........,.u....,,.,.y..�..v....L..w.�.�,.M,�.��.,.,,�.�.,.,µ�..a,,..,..,,,�..,...�.,.,�..�...,_...,„.,,.w..�.�.,,.M.....,..,..�.,..�....f,,.............�.��.�..�......,.M.._.,..�.,� d S � ,��.°�u C4'��;,,. , . CITY OF EUREKA C1TY MANAGER � � �U � 531 it Street • E�n��ka, �alifornia n550i-II46 • {707) 441-4144 � * * fax (707) �F41-4138 � �'�� e' .._.�-�-' '��9 .0 1 Pp'E�•-'' 6 � .. � June 26, 2014 � � .1ose Cisneros, President � �` League af California Cities � 1400 K Street, Suite 400 Sacramento, CA 95814 � � � � TY.�: F,nvirora�nental and Puhlic fi�fetv Im�r�ccts �f�lle�a:?Nas�riju��a Gr�ws Rpa��i��.!�� Dear President Cisneros: The City of�ureka supports the Redwood Empire Division's effort to submit a resolution for � consideration by the General Assembly at the League's 2�14 Annual Conference in I.,os Angeles. The Division's resolution seeks to address the devastating �a�vironmental impacts of illegal marijuana grows on both private and public lands throughout California and the increasinb threat t�public safety relating to these illegal sices. The resolution will provide the Le�zgue witl�the � direction to call upon the Governor aaid Sta.te Legislature to convene a suinmit to develop res�onsive solutions and.to secure adeqtaate fi.mding for implementation strategies. C�ur city has seen an increase in gang activity and organized crime witlun the Greater Eureka Area as a result of illegal growing operations. Our law enforcement and community safety have i�een negatively � impacted by these criminal activities. . � As members of the League, our city values the policX development process provided to the � General Assembly. We appreciate your time on tlus issue. Please feel free to cantact City � Manager Crreg Sparks at 707.441.414Q or gsparks r�r ci.eureka.ca.gov, if yc�u have any questions. � 4 f ; Sincerely, f "C`_' .�-._-..-^ 4 �,`. �� .�'' i rr i' Greg L. City Man ger � City of Eureka � cc: Kathryn Murray,President, Redwood Empire Division c/o Sara Rounds,Regional Public Affairs Manager, LOCC Redwood Empire Division, srounds(�cacities.org 4� •� CITY OF FQRT BRAGG Inrorporuled Arr��usl 5, l889 416 N. Franklin St. Fort Bragg, CA 95437 Phone: (70?) 9G 1-2823 Fax: (707) 961-2802 http:/icity.fortbra�s.com June 23, 2014 Jos� Cisneros, President League of California Cities 1400 K Street, Suite 400 Sacrarnento, CA 95814 RE: Environmentai and Pubiic Safety Impacts of Illegal Marijuana Grows Resolution Dear President Cisneros: The City af Fort Bragg supports the Redwood Empire Division's effort to submit a resolution for consideration hy the General Assembly at the League's 2014 Annual Conference in Las Angeles. The Division's resolution seeks to address the devastating enviranmental impac#s af il(egal marijuana grows on both private and public lands throughout California and the increasing threat to public safety relating to these illegal sites. The resolution will pravide the League with the direction to call upon the Governor and State Legislafiure fio convene a summit to develop responsive solutions and to secure adequate funding for implementation strategies. The City of Fort Bragg last City Councilmember and former Mayor Jere Mel� in August 2011 when he waiked in#o an illegal grow site and was shot and killed by the person guarding said site. As members of the League, our city values the po(icy development process provided to the General Assembly. We appreciate your time on this issue. Please feel free#o contact City Manager Linda Ruffing at 707-961-2$23 or Iruffing a"L?fortbragg.com, if you have any questians. ��'w--------'�. incerely, } "'�~~ /� � r'r J -_ %% ---•- ,..t ��;f�` �r-.....'�-""yr ��C �� D�e � urner Me Caurt e . „ 9 Y M yor ice Mayor a t,,,..� `.�; �_.��b ' crz --`�"�.. Scott Deitz ug a merstrom Heidi Kraut Councilmember Cou ciimember Councilmember cc: Kathryn Murray, President, Redwoad Empire Division c/o Sara Rounds, Regional Public Affairs Manager, LOCC Redwood Empire Division, sraunds@cacities.org ;�. "�%.,.��.. CITY OF HEALDSBURG r�` "``'°:'"�•. � ..� :�.*'f"'�:::�°. . ADMINISTRATION CiTY (�FNEALDSBUAG 401 GrAveStreet ..:, . . .:. CALtNORNiA .. "�'�'��'�"�� ' Healdsburg,CA 95448-4723 .//, ' �:�s. � 81NCE1l87 . � ., �..� .. •/., 'i' !`'' �: Phone: (707)431-3317 � "'Y" �n - ' ��.� ` Fax: (707}431-3321 Visit us at www.ci.hea[d,rburg.ca.us June 30,2014 Jose Cisneros,President League of California Cities 1400 K Street,Suite 400 Sacramento,CA 95814 RE:Environmental and Pub[ic Safety Impacts of Iilegal Marijuana Graws Resolution Dear Presid�nt Cisneros: The City of Healdsburg supports the Redwood Empire Division's effort to submit a resotution for considerltion by the Genera!Assembiy at the L.eague's 2014 Annual Conference in Los Angeles. The Division's resolution sezks to address the devasiating environmental impacts of illegai marijuana grows on both private and public lands throughout Califomia and the increasing threat to pubtic safety relating to these illegal sites. The resolution wili provide the League with the direction to cal! u�n the Governor and St��te Legislature to convene a summit to develop responsive sotutions and to secure adequate funding for implementation strategies. As members of the League,our city values tne policy development process provided to the General Assembly. We appreciare your time on this issue.Piease feel free to contact me either by phane at(70�431-33171or by e- mail at}woodL ci.tiealdsburg.ca.us if you have any questions. Sincer�iy, James D.Wood Mayor City of Heatdsburg cc: Kathryn Mutray,President,Redwood Empire Division c/o Sara Rounds,Regional Public Affairs Manager, LUCC Redwood Empire Division,srounds@caciti�,s.ore ,-,�-. �w +� p� �rPYrqpp� fti, �r� R� 4'� ��R��L'4J7f�� ' ,: . ,;:i�.�"' '..�'..�. Over JOQ yr,,ri s n/cnmmunitp pinlr.�,prnqrr.�s.s;md:;crvir,r. K �� h xy, '..>t.,p,,:,A�.'(�.... July 1, 2014 Jose Cisneras, President Lea�ue of Califarnia Cities 1400 K Street,Suite 400 Sacramento, CA 95814 RE: ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC SAFETY lMPACTS OF lLLEGAL MARUUANA GROWS RE50LUTIQN Dear President Cisneros: The City of Lakeport supports the Redwood Empire Oivision's effort to submit a resolution far consideration by the General Assembly at the League's 2014 Annual Conference in Los Angeles. The Division's resolution seeks to address the devastating environmental impacts of illegal marijuana grows on both private and public lands throughout California and the increasing threat to public safety relafiing to these illegal sites. The resolution witl provide the League with the direction to cafl upon the Governor and State Legislature to convene a summit to develop responsive solutions and to secure adequate funding for implementation strategies. As members of the League,our city values the po(icy development process pravicled to the General Assembly. We appreciate your time on this issue. Please feel free to contact me at(707) 263-S615, Ext. 12 or by email at kpar(et@cityoflakeport.carr� if you have any questians. Sincerely, � � l.J` Kenneth Parlet, fl Mayor cc: Kathryn Murray, President, Redwood Empire Division c/o Sara Rounds, Regional Public Affairs Manager, LOCC Redwood Empire Division, srou�-�ds�a?ca�_iti�s,or;; �.a J �� S+��E�� ° �.�l��y �dZ�..��.Q �3�JJ ' ��w�� {�C}�� -.�7'��D • �� r ��•�� C77'Y O!'TRJN/DAD P.O.Hax 390 4U9'frinily Streel C1�0� � 'frinids�d.CA 95570 (?07)b77-0223 '�� , Fax: (707)677-�759 . �.,.: Trinidad July 2, 2014 Jose Cisneros, President League of California Cities 1400 K Street, Suite 400 Sacram.enfio, CA 95814 RE: Environmental and Pubtic Safen�Irnpacts af Ilieg�l Marijuana Grows Resolution Dear President Cisneros: The City of Trinidad supports the Redwaod Empire Division's eff.orf io submit a resolution for consideration by the General Assembly at the League's 2014 Annuai Conference in Los An.geles. The Division's resolution seeks to address the devastatii�g environmental irnpacts of illegat marijuana grows on both private and publac lands throughout Califarnia and the increasing threat to public safety relating to these illegal sites. The resolution ��ill provide the League � with ihe direction io call upon the Governor and State L.egislature to convei�e a summit to develop responsive solutions and to secure ade�uate funding for implementation strategies. As members of the League, our city values the policy development process provided to the General Assembly. We appreciate your time on this issue. Sincerely, �. ,.� ��.�.._--_- .iulie Fulkerson Mayor Cc: Sara Raunds, Regional Public Affairs Mana�er, L4CC Redwood Empire Division '�� .;, , Y 1 ti?�y{�'�'7 kf ��. b . 4}„�{X.$r'�'F j.',�: �" L �YF�� .��e�f < �r `t �A4�� ' 1 June 30, 2014 Jose Cisneros, President League of Califnrnia Cities 1400 K Street, 5uite 400 Sacramento, CA 95814 RE: Environmental and Public Safety Impacts of Illegal Marijuana Grows Resolution Dear President Cisneros: The City of Ukiah supports the Redwaod Empire Division's effort to submit a resolution far consideration by the General Assembty at the League's 2014 Annual Canference in Los Angeles. The Diuision's reso(utian seeks to address the devastating environmental impacts of illega! � marijuana grows on both private and public lands throughout California and the increasing threat to public safety relating to these illegal sites. The resolution will provide the League with the direction to caN upon the Governor and State Leg+slature to convene a summit to devsiop responsive solutians and to secure adequate funding far implementatian stra#egies. As members of the League, our city values the policy development process provided to the General Assembly. We appreciate yaur time on this issue. Please feel free to contact Jane Chambers, City Manager, at 7407-463-6210 or jchambersCc�citVofukiah.eam, if you have any questions. Sincerefy, '� f `�`� � ��,�' �f�-��,.��,�- `� l/�'t�. .� �-'- ^�`� ..� (� t� �---'�� -''S-`� --.�. Philip � aldwin Mary 4 n Landis Benj Thomas Mayar Vice Mayar • Councilmember f � �� '�r� � ,��""�t��L �-� �-- ��-�-,,�.,.�� -� t aouglas F. Crane Steve Scatmanini Councilmember Councilmember Cc: Kathryn Murray, President, Redwood Empire Division c/o Sara Rounds, Regional Public Affairs Manager, L�CC Redwoad Empire Division, srounds@cacities.org 3U0 SEMiNARY A�/ENUE UlSIHH, CA 95+82-5d00 Fhvne�7L7t46.-F20C Fa�c#s 7C7l46�-62�4 WebAdd!?ss: ��wr�.cit�lcfukiah-com