Holmdel Committee To Introduce Pot Business Ban Ordinance July 13

HOLMDEL, NJ - The five-member Holmdel Township Committee is set to discuss a proposed ordinance banning all cannabis-related businesses from operating in the municipality at its next meeting on July 13, according to municipal documents. A competing ordinance aimed at establishing cannabis regulations in town for cultivators is also on the agenda.

Although New Jersey voters approved the legalization of marijuana during the November 2020 general election 67.1 percent to 32.9 percent, local municipalities can still bar businesses from selling, growing and manufacturing cannabis in town. Any action will need to be taken by municipalities quickly as the exact deadline to pass an ordinance banning or limiting the number of cannabis establishments and establishing civil penalties for violation of ordinances is Aug. 21, according to the New Jersey State League of Municipalities. Related: Marijuana Is Legal In NJ. But Can Towns Still Ban It?

While other municipalities in Monmouth County are still considering pot's role in town - including Manalapan and Marlboro - Freehold and Colts Neck have already taken steps to fully ban pot retailers, manufacturers and cultivators within township limits.

At a June 22 township committee meeting, Holmdel's governing body remained split on the issue of approving licensed cannabis cultivators in town. Committeeman Prakash Santhana, Committeeman Tom Critelli and Committeeman DJ Luccarelli stated their support for the ordinance - arguing that local farms would be provided with more lucrative options - while Mayor Gregory Buontempo and Deputy Mayor Cathy Weber showed their opposition to both the sale and cultivation of marijuana in the township.

Holmdel residents should also know that, regardless of what businesses can operate in town, it won't limit their ability to consume cannabis or get cannabis delivered from an outside service. Adults 21 and over are allowed to consume cannabis on private property. Cannabis has also been decriminalized in New Jersey, and you can possess up to six ounces of marijuana or 17 grams of hashish without penalty. Read more: 5 Things You Need To Know About Marijuana Legalization In NJ

Here are the other highlights on the July 13 agenda:

• Resolution and certification for state body-worn camera grant program
• Resolution approving Holmdel Police Department purchasing and installation of lighting and equipment
• Introduction of an ordinance authorizing a public question to withdraw form Monmouth County Library System and establish a Holmdel Free Public Library
• Resolution approving preliminary costs for Mount Drive Force main replacement

You can read the full agenda here.