Politics & Government

Public Hearing On Princeton Cannabis Ordinance To be Held Aug. 9

Public hearing and vote on the opt-out ordinance which was scheduled for Monday will now be held on Aug. 9.

PRINCETON, NJ — A public hearing on the ordinance that prohibits all marijuana businesses in town will now be held on Aug. 9. The hearing was earlier scheduled for Monday, but during the council meeting, Mayor Mark Freda announced the change in date, which reflects on the council agenda.

The township decided to introduce a temporary opt-out ordinance, with an aim to present a “limited opt-in ordinance” at a later date.

Read More Here: Princeton Council Introduces Ordinance Banning Marijuana Biz

Find out what's happening in Princetonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

New Jersey municipalities have until Aug. 21 to decide whether to allow or block marijuana retail within their borders. Most townships are choosing to “opt-out” and wait to see what rules and regulations the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission will roll out in August.

If municipalities fail to come to a decision by the deadline, they will not be able to repeal or alter their ordinances later. Not only will marijuana businesses be allowed to operate, but officials won't have another chance to issue a ban for the next five years.

Find out what's happening in Princetonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

With the temporary opt-out ordinance in place, Princeton's Cannabis Task Force will continue to research, explore and sketch out guidelines and make recommendations for a limited opt-in ordinance.

Want to win Six Flags Great Adventure Season Passes? Here's how.

Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com

Get breaking news alerts on your phone with our app. Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.