Despite Opposition, Princeton’s Cannabis Task Force Moves Ahead

PRINCETON, NJ – The Cannabis Task Force has decided to move ahead with its recommendations to Council, despite pushback from some residents.

During the Dec. 16 meeting, the CTF said it was going forward with its recommendations to allow three medical and adult-use retail dispensaries in town.

The CTF presented its report to Council on Nov. 30 but was faced with some pushback from residents who called for stronger zoning restrictions, via an online petiton.

In Princeton, CTF recommends that all marijuana retailers be subject to zoning restrictions similar to alcohol stores — at least 200 feet from schools.

The petition said that having dispensaries near schools, playgrounds, and residential neighborhoods, was "in violation of U.S. Federal law and common sense." Federal law requires a buffer of 1,000 feet for any cannabis dispensaries situated near schools.

Recently, Princeton Public Schools too weighed in on the matter, releasing a "position statement," requesting Council to enforce "a buffer of 1,000 feet for any cannabis dispensaries" situated near schools.

Read More:

Petition Opposes Cannabis Retail Near Princeton Schools, Homes

Princeton BOE Urges Council To Impose Cannabis Zoning Limitations

Highlights From Princeton's Cannabis Task Force Report

In their statement, the BOE said it was appealing to the council "in the interest of protecting student health and wellness.” They presented three points to consider when addressing the licensing of legal cannabis dispensaries.

First, a buffer of 1,000 feet for any cannabis dispensaries situated near schools. Second, a portion of tax revenues from cannabis dispensaries should be directed to Princeton Public Schools. The money will be used for public information campaigns on cannabis use and its effects on health and wellness. And third, a commitment from the municipality, law enforcement, and legal dispensaries to strictly enforce the law prohibiting sales to minors.

Task Force members decided to push forward with their recommendations saying they were fact-based and supported by research.

The Task Force has zeroed in on commercial areas for cannabis retail. The identified locations are Dinky area/Alexander St, Jugtown (near the intersection of Harrison St and Nassau St), Central Business District, Witherspoon North (Witherspoon Street only between Green and Leigh Avenue), and 206 North (at Cherry Valley).

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