Cherry Hill To Talk Cannabis In Public Meeting

CHERRY HILL, NJ — While cannabis businesses have emerged around South Jersey since recreational legalization, Cherry Hill officials opted to keep the township out of the industry — for the time being. But the public can help determine Cherry Hill's next steps at an upcoming meeting.

The township will hold the meeting July 10 in the Council Chambers — following the Township Council meeting that begins at 7 p.m.

Officials will provide a short presentation before listening to public feedback, said Township Business Administrator Erin Knoedler.

"The purpose is really to hear from the public," Knoedler told Patch.

In 2021, Cherry Hill was among many New Jersey municipalities that opted out of allowing cannabis businesses within its premises. When recreational use for adults became legal in New Jersey that year, local governments had six months to decide whether to prohibit any or all types of weed businesses.

Municipalities could opt in later to allow them. But if they didn't ban them by the 180-day mark, they wouldn't have another opportunity for five more years.

Several cities and towns in Camden County took a wait-and-see approach, with several local ordinances citing "present uncertainties regarding the future impacts" of allowing such businesses.

Adults 21 and older in New Jersey can still consume recreational weed in private spaces, no matter their locale's regulations on cannabis businesses. Landlords may prohibit weed consumption on their property. See the state's FAQ page on recreational use.

Cannabis businesses continue to emerge throughout South Jersey, including three that recently began selling recreational products: Sweetspot in Voorhees, Holistic Solutions in Atco, and Nova Farms in Woodbury. Read more: 3 Dispensaries Begin Selling Recreational Weed In South Jersey

The state cannabis commission has a complete list of New Jersey dispensaries offering recreational and/or medical cannabis.

During the 2020 general election, two-thirds of New Jersey voters cast ballots in favor of a referendum to legalize recreational weed. In Cherry Hill, 62 percent voted "yes" while 23 percent voted against the measure. However, the ballot question didn't address legalizing cannabis businesses in specific municipalities. So the results may differ from public opinion on whether residents want them in their communities.