On Tuesday, the Meridian Township Board unanimously approved an ordinance amendment aimed at retaining funds from cannabis-related prosecutions within the township, rather than allowing them to go to Ingham County. The vote, which concluded with a 6-0 decision, marks a significant shift in how the township will handle financial penalties associated with cannabis offenses, especially those involving underage possession and distribution.
Meridian Township Police Chief Rick Grillo and Township Attorney Cullen Harkness first introduced the proposed ordinance amendment last month. The initiative was presented as a means for the township to better manage the resources generated from cannabis-related legal actions. Under the previous system, fines and penalties collected from these prosecutions were automatically directed to Ingham County, leaving the township without a share of these funds.
Trustee Marna Wilson provided insights into the township's existing cannabis-related prosecution powers, noting that Meridian Township has long had an ordinance in place to address violations, particularly those involving individuals under the age of 21. These cases typically involve possession or distribution, areas where the township has seen a need for continued enforcement.
"We have an ordinance that allows us to prosecute for marijuana issues and violations," Wilson stated during the meeting. "Primarily for possession in under 21-year-olds and distribution."
Before the newly passed amendment, any financial penalties resulting from these prosecutions were allocated to Ingham County. The ordinance change ensures that moving forward, such funds will remain within Meridian Township, providing a potential boost to local resources.
"What we're trying to do with this ordinance is, if there are monetary penalties associated with the conviction, the Township gets to keep that money instead of turning it over to the county," Wilson explained. This shift is seen as a way to enhance the township's financial capabilities, particularly in areas like law enforcement.
Wilson highlighted that the funds recouped through these prosecutions could be utilized in various ways to benefit the township. While they might contribute to the general fund, Wilson indicated a strong likelihood that the money would be allocated to bolster police support, addressing public safety needs directly within the community.
The ordinance is set to take effect on September 18th, marking a new chapter in how Meridian Township manages its cannabis-related legal processes and the accompanying financial implications. The amendment's passage could lead to more focused and well-funded law enforcement efforts within the township, particularly as it relates to cannabis regulation and youth-related offenses.
Meridian Township Clerk Deborah Guthrie was not present for the vote, but the board's unanimous decision underscores strong support for the measure among township leaders. As the new ordinance takes effect, it is expected to provide the township with greater control over the financial outcomes of cannabis-related legal actions, ensuring that funds generated from these prosecutions directly benefit the local community.
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