Could Mahwah Allow Cannabis Businesses After All?

MAHWAH, NJ — The township committee will host a special meeting to consider an amendment to the standing cannabis ordinance, perhaps presenting an opportunity for businesses to enter the city limits.

Committee members passed an ordinance barring cannabis businesses from opening earlier this year, but will discuss an amendment that would allow one cannabis retailer to open on Route 17 North.

The new ordinance — 1956 — would also establish requirements and restrictions related to security, hours of operation, odor mitigation, signage and tax benefits to the township.

Township officials created the existing ordinance, which bans cannabis businesses, ahead of a state deadline to do so on Aug. 21, and they weren't alone.

Numerous community officials in the state chose to do so for a few reasons, not the least of which because they could amend the ordinance to allow cannabis businesses at any time.

Had officials chosen to allow businesses prior to that August deadline, however, they would have to for five years to consider a ban.

Read more: Marijuana Is Legal In NJ. But Can Towns Still Ban It?

The meeting will be held on Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Center, 475 Corporate Dr.

For the agenda, click here.