Residents and NAACP press Modesto council to re-open vote on cannabis equity grant; motion for special meeting fails 3–3

A group of community speakers urged the Modesto City Council on Dec. 10 to authorize staff to submit an application for state cannabis equity funding and to reconsider a prior tied vote that left the program stalled.

Terry Johnson, representing the NAACP Modesto-Stanislaus, said the grant "is up to $250,000" and urged council members to approve the city's application before the stated Dec. 16 deadline. Wendy Byrd told the council, "All you're asking for is to apply," and warned that missing the application window would delay the program by a year.

Dr. Samuel White, legal chair for the Stanislaus County NAACP, said the previous 3–3 split was "egregious" and urged members who opposed the program to reconsider. "I even would like the DOJ Department of Justice to take a look at this," White said, alleging the vote's effect could raise civil-rights concerns.

Vice Mayor Alvarez told the council he had recused himself from the equity decision "out of an abundance of caution" because a family member may apply; he defended his course as adhering to ethical guidance. Jessica Hill, director of economic development, said staff had an outline and estimated about 48 hours to update the previous application for resubmission.

Council Member Chris Rickey moved to call a special meeting to allow staff to file an updated application; the motion was seconded by Council Member Williams. The clerk called a roll and the motion failed for lack of a majority with a 3–3 vote. The council did not schedule another meeting on the item before adjourning.

The public comments made clear community support for pursuing the grant, and speakers asked for transparency about any conflicts of interest asserted by council members who abstained or recused themselves.