For some, not all tax revenue is welcomed

It continues to mystify us why some city officials are opposed to Hamtramck allowing marijuana dispensaries in town.
There remains open hostility to this type of business, based largely on religious and moral beliefs, or so it appears.
There was an initial fear, by some, that the dispensaries would be a magnet for crime — something that statistics can corroborate has not happened – or that the local youth would be somehow “corrupted,” which is laughably false.
The dispensaries, which cater to adults only, have been following the laws, and have turned out to be major revenue producers for the city – tax and fee-wise.
Hamtramck received over $200,000 this year from our four outlets (despite that one closed down in mid-year).
At the same time, these city officials are bemoaning the fact that income tax collection is down about $500,000 compared to the year before, in the belief that something about the tax collection process is inefficient, they turn around and say that the city can live without the revenue stream provided by dispensaries.
Over $200,000 may not seem like much to some city officials; to us, it’s a good chunk of change the city should be glad to receive.
Every little bit helps keep the city afloat.
Just think if Hamtramck allowed more marijuana outlets to operate here. In comparison, over in Hazel Park, which is just slightly larger in geographical size than Hamtramck, they allow 10 dispensaries to operate, which brings in almost $560,000 a year for the city.
That’s an impressive sum of money by anyone’s standards.
What comes next – banning bars from operating as well, because of a belief that alcohol is evil?
Hamtramck should be welcoming to all legal businesses, and not allow personal beliefs to interfere.
Posted March 15, 2024