Board adopts framework to distribute cannabis reinvestment funds to 21740 area

Washington County commissioners voted unanimously to approve a community plan for distributing Maryland’s Community Reinvestment & Repair Fund (CRRF), the portion of cannabis sales tax revenue directed to communities disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition. The plan establishes priorities, eligibility criteria, and monitoring requirements for funds restricted to zip code 21740.

Maria Kramer, director of the Office of Grant Management, and Allison Hartsorn, the opioid restitution fund manager, summarized outreach results: a two‑week survey solicited input from community organizations and residents; 156 people completed the survey, with strong representation from postal codes 21740 and 21742. Staff said the top priority areas identified were health and wellness, community/quality of life, economic opportunity, and youth programming.

Maria Kramer said the county’s plan will include competitive application procedures, eligibility standards (including service to the restricted ZIP code), performance metrics and annual reporting to the board and state controller. “The plan is developed by the county, established before distributing funds, developing consultation with stakeholders, and a public hearing,” Kramer said.

Community representatives urged the board to prioritize organizations that serve the targeted neighborhoods. Michael Frell of the Robert W. Johnson Community Center described a planned pool project and other youth programs that the center said would benefit from CRRF support. The board approved the framework and asked staff to move forward with Notice of Availability and grant application procedures.