Marijuana Policy Project

Operation "Green Harvest" used to be a state-wide program.

The Big Island County Council rejected $441,000 in federal funding that would have helped Big Isle police fight the war on drugs.

"It does send a message that the council anyway didn't want to see a continuation of the 'Green Harvest' program," says Big Island County Council Chairman, Pete Hoffmann.

It was a 4-4 vote. The tie means no to the program, which has been in flight for three decades.

Hoffmann voted to keep "Green Harvest" airborne.

"I have always been in support of the program. I feel that as long as marijuana is illegal as far as the federal and state government is concerned we need to give our police force all the tools they need in order to enforce the law."

"I can't see denying them those resources in order to enforce the law. I think that is not the right way to approach this particular problem."

As for why Big Island Council Members would vote against the plan.

"There are of course a number of people here who wish to see the legalization of marijuana in all its forms."

A vocal group that has made a lot of noise lately.

Hoffmann won't say the recent vote is a step in the wrong direction for the Big Island, but... "I certainly don't think it's a step in the right direction. I would have rather not seen that occur. I will abide by the decision of course of the members of the council."

A councilmember who voted against the program says it is a matter of protecting civil rights.

He says the aerial searches are a violation of privacy.

The issue could be a hot topic this fall as Big Isle residents elect a new mayor.