By WILLIAM CLARK
Neptune officials have outlined how cannabis can be grown, distributed, and taxed in the township.
At its meeting this week the Township Committee adopted three ordinances setting regulations dealing with cannabis. The action came in anticipation of the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission accepting applications on March 15.
The ordinances amended previous ones passed, bringing Neptune’s intention of bringing legalized cannabis up to date with the state CRC’s requirements. With the approval this week, businesses hoping to set up operations in Neptune will be able to file applications with the CRC.
Mayor Nicholas Williams touted Neptune’s vision to move the town forward when other municipalities around the state are opting out of approving cannabis businesses.
“We want to be at the front of everything,” he said before the ordinances came up for final approval.
Williams also said that the approval process will be thorough, holding those who wish to set up shop in the town to a high standard.
Sales of cannabis will generate between one to two percent in local tax revenue based on the ordinances.
Voters in New Jersey approved the question regarding the legalization of cannabis on the November 2020 general election ballot. Neptune Township residents overwhelmingly approved of the question with over 70 percent of respondents voting yes.
Living Shoreline
In other business, Township Business Administrator Gina Laplaca was reached before the meeting for an update on the Living Shoreline project along the Shark River. The project, which intends to provide natural protection along the river, is currently waiting for permit approval from the Army Corps. Once approved, the town can move forward with construction bids.
“The nature and scope of the project are not changing,” LaPlaca said.
