Greater Cincinnati communities benefit from slice of recreational marijuana tax money

OG article by Todd Dykes

February 24, 2026

Ohio communities hosting recreational marijuana dispensaries have received nearly $36 million in excise tax revenue since voters approved legalization in 2023. The law requires sharing a portion of sales taxes with host cities, townships, and villages. In Greater Cincinnati, Monroe has collected over $946,000 from four dispensaries, including Columbia Care and Shangri-La, thanks to its strategic location and supportive council. Other areas benefiting include Mount Orab ($431,000), Oxford ($362,000), Lebanon ($302,000), Milford ($661,000), and Union Township ($753,000). The small rural village of Seven Mile in Butler County gained $430,000 from Bloom Medicinals. Columbia Township ranks third statewide with $1.5 million from two dispensaries, following efforts to maintain local revenue distribution. Trustee David Kubicki plans to use funds to reduce levy dependence, improve community events, and strengthen police services. Statewide, Columbus leads with $4.7 million and Cincinnati with $2.5 million, where one council member pushes for reinvestment in historically affected neighborhoods. Recent legislation preserved this tax-sharing approach, which may motivate more communities to host dispensaries and boost local economies.