Stanhope bans all cannabis commerce
Stanhope. The public will have a chance to weigh in on the ordinance that would all six commercial licenses for cultivators, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, and delivery services.
Stanhope /
| 29 Jun 2021 | 05:05
The lobby to Stanhope borough hall is now open (Photo by Vera Olinski)
At their first in-person meeting at the municipal building after more than a year of virtual meetings, the Stanhope council prohibited all six classes of cannabis commerce in the borough.
In a 4-2 vote, the council passed an ordinance prohibiting the operation of any class of cannabis business within the borough of Stanhope. A public hearing on the ordinance will be held on Tuesday, July 13.
Councilmen Anthony Riccardi and Gene Wronko voted against the ordinance.
Gov. Phil Murphy signed three laws, which went into effect on Feb. 22, that make the adult use of marijuana legal and decriminalizes possession of small amounts of marijuana. No municipality may prohibit the delivery of marijuana, whether medical or recreational.
The New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Enforcement Assistance Marketplace Modernization Act has created classes of commercial licenses for cultivators, manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, and delivery services.
Municipalities have 180 days either to prohibit or allow some or none of these licenses. Approved licenses will remain valid for a five-year commitment period. Another 180-day review window follows after five years, when municipalities may again decide whether to prohibit licenses or add them.
IN OTHER TOWN BUSINESS
New councilman: The council unanimously elected Michael Vance as temporary councilman to take the place of Raymond Cipollini, who moved out of the borough.
Land Use Board: The council unanimously elected Michael Vance as the council’s representative on the Land Use Board.
Code enforcement/housing and zoning officer: The council unanimously passed an ordinance adding the position of code enforcement/housing and zoning officer at an annual salary of $25,000. A public hearing on the proposed new position will be held on Tuesday, July 13.
New police officer: The council unanimously offered Christina Dimitriou a position as borough police officer. The police academy will begin July 6.
Shared services: The council unanimously authorized sharing street-sweeping services with Hopatcong. Borough administrator Brian McNeilly said the sweeper, operator, and removal of debris will cost $2,200 per week, which amounts to a substantial savings for the borough.
Clean Communities Grant: The council unanimously amended the budget to include the Clean Communities Grant.
Construction employees get more time: The council unanimously increased the construction department schedule outside of normal work hours from two to 10 hours. Borough administrator Brian McNeilly said the department needs extra time to catch up with the rentals, fees, and inspections that had stalled during the Covid emergency.
Tax collection rate: Council president Thomas Romano said the town borough has collected about 97 percent of its tax revenue so far this year.
9/11 memorial service: Councilman Gene Wronko said those who perished in the 9/11 terror attacks will be remembered in a 20th anniversary memorial service at the lake, where the 9/11 Memorial is located.
Pig roast fundraiser: Mayor Patricia Zdichocki said a pig roast fundraiser for the ambulance and fire departments will be held on Friday, Sept. 10.
Purchasing agreement: The council unanimously approved continuing the qualified purchasing agent agreement with Sparta. The cost will remain at $2,400 per year.
Borough hall lobby reopens: Borough administrator Brian McNeilly said the borough hall lobby is now open, with employees working behind glass.
Road work: Borough engineer Eric Keller said Dell Road and Young Drive are completed, and Plane Lane and East Drive are paved. Next, he said, they will move forward with Baker Place.