Rockford City Council narrowly voted 7-6 Dec. 1 to tap $2.6 million in funds accumulated from a 3% tax on recreational marijuana sales to help close a projected $3.7 million 2026 budget deficit.

Funds from the 3% sales tax were restricted by a 2021 city policy to funding programs that benefit communities disproportionately impacted by the war on drugs. The decision to utilize the money came after a lengthy debate that included at least three attempts to delay a vote.

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