For much of the past two decades, Adelanto has struggled to stay afloat. The desert city 9 miles northwest of Victorville in San Bernardino County has 40% of people living below the poverty line. Three years ago, it was talking possible bankruptcy and disincorporation thanks to a $2.6 million budget hole. But suddenly, things are changing.
The city's budget deficit has plummeted to $500,000 to $700,000. According to Mayor Richard Kerr, much of that is owed to tax revenue from medical marijuana cultivation. Currently, there are 360 acres zoned for medical marijuana cultivation in Adelanto.
There's more were that came from. With recreational marijuana sales slated for legalization next year, Adelanto's friendly cannabis policies could result in a windfall -- if it can keep up with all the other cities trying to get in on the game, that is.
Read more about Adelanto's hope of becoming the Silicon Valley of marijuana here.