Cannabis Troubles Pinpointed

Last week, the Santa Barbara Independent published an article about the Grand Jury report that was released on June 30 blasting the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors for its mismanagement of the county’s cannabis production, for dismissing public input, ignoring major environmental impacts, and allowing excessive production, among other criticisms. The comprehensive Grand Jury 26-page report on the county’s woeful Cannabis Ordinance underscores the many concerns we have urged upon the Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors for the last three years. An ad hoc committee, made up of supervisors Das Williams and Steve Lavagnino, was cited by the Grand Jury as the origin of our county’s cannabis troubles.

In February, prior to the March 3, 2020, primary election, the Santa Barbara Independent published an endorsement of incumbent Das Williams for 1st District Supervisor against challenger Laura Capps. This paragraph stands out: “But we also believe Williams will learn to admit his mistakes quickly and with compassion, and that he will strive to repair relationships with those who have been his past allies. Most importantly, we are convinced that as the 1st District Supervisor, Das Williams will continue to push home the legislation, programs, and solutions to the challenges confronting Santa Barbara County.”

Fast forward three months to the June 11, 2020, Board of Supervisors meeting when: