LITTLE FALLS — The township is reviewing an ordinance that if passed, will allow for the retail sale of cannabis within its borders.
While the township currently allows other classifications of cannabis commercial activities such as wholesaling and manufacturing, the city held off introducing a measure that would permit retail sales, Mayor James Damiano said.
Little Falls, he said, didn’t want to be a guinea pig when it came to the marijuana sales business, but rather was waiting to see how retail sales panned out in other municipalities before going to residents with this proposal.
The retail proposal was brought up in April, then, during the most recent township council meeting, the ordinance to allow for the sale of cannabis in the township, was introduced.
“Introducing this ordinance is about opening a dialogue,” Damiano said. “It’s a way for the community to share their opinions. I want to hear concerns and address them.”
Councilman Mike Murphy said the idea needs public vetting before putting it to a final vote. He asked the council for a delay of a month or more in hopes of getting more public input and suggested a town-hall type of event.
“I want to hear what the residents say,” Murphy said during the council’s most recent meeting. He said he hasn’t made his mind up one way or the other.
Damiano agreed that input from residents is sought after, but said he’s not sure a town-hall type of gathering is the best way to educate the public on the issue.
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“I am not opposed to the idea of a town hall,” Damiano said. “However, I have found that people come to town halls with their minds made up.”
Residents will have two opportunities to be heard before the decision is final.
The matter still needs to appear before the city’s Land Use Board as it is not a permitted use and a use variance is needed, Damiano said. The next Land Use Board meeting is scheduled for Sept. 7 and he expects it to be on the agenda.
The Council would also have to hold a public hearing before taking the final vote. Even if adopted, the public would get to comment when the Council votes to approve the vendor.
The mayor said the township is currently working with an applicant, but that may change before a final decision is made.
Story continues below the gallery of photos from 2022.
The new ordinance sets a regulatory framework outlining the regulations and procedures for establishing and operating a retail cannabis business. Damiano said he hopes to limit retailing along Route 46, and if possible, limit the operation to appointment only or perhaps limiting hours of operation.
The township currently allows the other classifications of cannabis commercial activities such as wholesaling and manufacturing.
Daminao said the township will also soon be hearing from a cannabis manufacturing applicant who hopes to set up operations along 46 at the former Liberty Travel site.
This too could be heard at the Sept. 7 Land Use Board meeting.
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