Clinic, health department outline projects

Wahkiakum County health officials aren't impressed with the state of Washington's draft plan for the distribution of marijuna funds.

The state has collected millions in taxes from the sale of legalized marijuna in the past year, and $7.25 million of those funds are destined to programs that will educate youth about hazards of marijuana use by young people.

County Health Officer Dr. Sarah Present on Tuesday told Wahkiakum County commissioners that the state plans a hotline, $35,000, prevention effforts, $2.25 million, and media based education, $3.34 million.

"My main concern is that it's a competitive program," Dr. Present said. "It's challenging for small communities."

Dr. Present added that county officials have the opportunity to comment on the program on a website."

Dian Cooper, executive director of the Cowlitz Family Health Clinic, said she plans on commenting.

"The competitive nature is a concern," Cooper said. She added that she would welcome talking points from the county health officials, and Dr. Present said she would supply them.

The effort may be for naught, according to Commissioner Blair Brady, who lobbied county issues in the legislature this year.

"If you (a county) didn't have a retail sales store, you get nothing," Brady said. "It's very unfair.

"I could go on and on, but they have totally disrespected counties in this last biennium."

County Health and Human Services Director Sue Cameron suggested the Wahkiakum Community Network, with its youth programs, should be able to put together a good appeal.

Commissioner Dan Cothren commented that the high level of marijuana use by young people may be surprising to some people. In his career as a forest security officer, he sees lots of signs of use, such as discarded paraphernalia, left at party sites in the woods.

"A lot of youth don't feel it's as risky as it is," Dr. Present said. "We should look at legalization as an opportunity for education for youth."