All right. Good evening. It's the meeting of the cannabis control board of the city of Jersey City held Monday, May uh 18, 2025 at approximately 509 in accordance with the open public meetings act known as
the sunshine bill. Adequate notices meeting was provided by email to the Bergen record. Roll call please. >> Chairperson Kaplowitz >> here. >> Vice Chair Patel >> here. >> Commissioner Napioski >> here. Commissioner Stell is absent and
Commissioner Pepe >> here. >> Uh, anybody has a cell phone, please put it either on silent or off. >> With the board's permission, I'd like to call the first application Green Stop Wellness.
Not up here. Please have a seat at the U the table. Would you please uh raise your right hand? Do you swear from the testimony you're about to give? be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Help you God. >> Yes, sir. >> Okay, put your hand down. Please state your name, spell your last name, and
just give us your office address. >> Name is Vicram. >> Put the mic on, please. >> Uh, name is Vicram. Last name is Kumar. K U M A R. Address is 516 Tunnly, Jersey City.
>> All right, sir. Uh why don't you tell the board uh what's going on? You're here for a uh renewal. >> Yes. >> Uh why don't you update the board as to how things are uh going, so to speak, and uh they'll take it from there with questions. >> That's interesting.
>> Okay. Um things have been steady. They haven't grown much since we opened up. Um I don't know if you're aware, there were three dispensaries next to us that shut down in less than a year. Uh the amount of traffic we anticipated is not there.
Um so it's slowly building up but we are trying our best to hang in there and uh hopefully to see the sales go up slowly and steadily. >> Any complaints? Uh any violations? Any
problems with machinery that would uh cause you to serve folks that are underage? >> No. No. Thankfully, no complaints. Uh we up to date with our taxes with the town. So, no complaints thankfully so far. >> Good. >> We're trying our best.
>> How many employees do you have now? >> We have seven, sir. >> Seven. >> Mhm. >> How many from Georgia City? >> So, earlier there were three. Now there is only one. But we have a help wanted sign at the dispensary. We want to hire local.
>> Mostly all the people that we hire for other activities uh graffiti work and all are local artists from Jersey City. >> We support the police. Uh we supported last year bike city. We supporting this this year as well. We're trying our best
to support as many local communities efforts as we can. Right now we're in survival mode. We want to make sure we survive first in order to help and somebody else. All right. To >> make sure we stay in business. >> Uh any comments or any suggestions from
your own experience over the last few years? >> I think everybody's on the same page. You probably heard it before. Uh there's just too many dispensaries. Um especially we were on the one and nine stretch. There was like four right next to us, >> right?
>> The rents are here are really high. Expenses, property taxes are high. So that's causing us to just slow down a little bit and just try to meet the expenses and keep everybody on board. >> Mhm. >> If there were probably less, we would
probably get more business, but that was the only comment. You know, >> it is what it is. >> Any questions from the board? >> Any public comment? Not hearing any. Um I'll entertain a motion.
Second for stat for stat for a renewal. >> Who made the motion? He just he entertained one. >> Motion. >> He's going to dance for us. >> I'll second the motion for approval. >> Okay. So, thank you, Robert. >> Please call the vote. >> Chairperson Kaplowitz, >> I.
>> Vice Chair Patel, >> yes. >> Commissioner Napioski, >> I. >> Commissioner Pepe, >> yes. >> All right, motion carries. Best of luck. Congratulations. >> Thank you so much. Please support. >> Take care.
All right. Uh, regards to Jersey Leaf, um, want to just step forward for a second. Unfortunately, we have to have at least uh, five. No, it's four. Two. Yeah, five. >> Well, we do have four.
>> Two. Yeah, but he's recused. >> Oh, he's recusing himself. The gentleman has to recuse himself. So, we do not have a quorum. Uh, we've reached out to the other uh commissioner and we're shy two commissioners to start with. So, we
don't have a quorum to hear and vote on your application. You have two choices. Uh, you can basically reschedu or you can sit and wait to see if the other gentleman shows up. That's your choice. >> We'll reschedu. >> No big deal.
>> Okay. >> It's all right. Y >> thank you. >> We'll see you guys next month. >> All right. >> Could have w they could have waved the conflict. >> No. >> Really?
>> Oh man. >> Okay. Lord department like bust our chops last year. Really? No objectors. Let them go. >> Wow. Okay. >> Call the next one, Mr. >> Yes. U Kush Club. Um CCB22-29.
Kush Club, New Jersey, 550 to 560 Tunnel Avenue, Jersey City. This is a renewal. No one here. >> Why don't you do second call maybe? >> Can you hear me? >> Yeah.
>> So, I put them on the agenda because technically they are up for renewal. Um, we did get word that they're closed, but they've never reached told us that they were closed. We They've never paid the application fee. They were open.
>> They did open at least at some point, but um when I reached out to them to pay the application fee, they did not. And they haven't paid any quarterly taxes. Um we did send inspector out to see if they were open the day that the
inspector or the I think it was um Omar Aliyah from the >> So basically they're out of business and they haven't and they haven't paid any dues. Question >> I'm listening Mr. >> Can we take a vote to not renew them at this point and send it to the council make it finalized or they have to be
here? >> No, they they don't have to be here but I I would give them one more bite at the apple and here's why. They actually were a functioning business which means right they they got final approval from the CRC. I mean they they were in operation. They were selling cash.
>> At least one day they were open one day. We're really not sure. >> Like we I called them. He said he was open. I said you got to pay the um application fee. He said I wasn't aware. I'll get right on that. We gave him a couple of days and then we just haven't heard from him again. And so we started
doing our own research, looking them up and sending someone there. >> Did Did they pay their state? Uh >> I don't know about the state. Um >> did they take out building permits and actually construct? >> We believe it was built out. Yes. >> All right. So >> there's a chance that it was
>> they confirmed that they were open. >> We almost feel that they may have never opened or opened in a very short period of time. >> Popped off. >> Uh I'm going to suggest this. Uh Mr. Chairman, I' I'd like to reach out to the CRC and just see if they have a final license. >> Uh, makes a big difference if they have
a final license versus uh not having a final license. If they never actually opened, I don't see how they would ever have a final license. And if they opened for one day, it's highly unlikely they have a final license from the CRC, but they might. So, I think we give them one
adjournment. Uh, and I will do some research to see if I can find out if they actually have an annual license from the CRC. They don't show up next month. Um, it would be the board's prerogative to recommend uh to the city council that u they
revoke their resolution of support. >> Agreed. Does everybody agree with that? >> Have an administrative complaint against them already for not paying the fees >> uh from the city? >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Yeah, we did speak to them when we found out they were open
>> and they did confirm that they would get on it. They would send us, you know, their applica, not the application fee, but the um license fee >> and we just didn't hear from them after that. >> So, they open without paying. >> Yeah, a lot of them do. I think they're not aware sometimes. So, that wasn't a
big issue. But when we told him, he said, "Yes, I'm open. I didn't know I needed to pay that now. I'll get right on it and then we just never heard from them. >> Okay. >> My question is do we act if they're not paying they're not open and they're on here >> why can't we just vote to have them not
renewed or that's what I would confirm. I'd move for that. >> So um you know I I get that and it's and it's an attractive uh solution but um there can be some serious problems with trying to revoke a license once the
state has issued it. Um, I get it, but we don't know. There's a lot of We're not sure. We're not sure. We're not sure. Um, and I get it. I mean, were they even issued a local license here? I'm guessing the answer is no. If they didn't pay the fee, >> I say no.
>> Let me ask uh do do we know if the city issued them a local license? >> No, because that would be from our office and they haven't paid us. So, we wouldn't issue a local license. We We issue the license at Commerce. So, >> how are they up for renewal?
>> They never got it. >> Well, what normally happens, um, we put the renewal applications in front of the board, uh, 90 days before because that's a requirement from the CRC. So, a lot of times we'll bring them 3 months before we even need them to come into a renewal. And that's what we have
attempted to do because it's been a long process with the state. That's why we brought them back today just in case and hoping that would encourage them to come in and give us a status update and make the payments, but it doesn't appear that they're responding. So, >> so one second. >> So, basically what I'm understanding is
>> they have not open. They have not paid their fees. Uh so therefore, they're non-existent. Correct. >> I I think they did open for a few weeks at least according to what we have in front of us, but they're no longer here. should not point. They should not have
opened if they correct. >> So, right off the bat, they're in violation. >> They opened illegally, but they opened. >> I I'll tell you something. I would revoke their license. >> We don't have the authority. >> Well, I would recommend to the council to revoke. >> So, yes. Okay. It's well within the board's jurisdiction to indicate to the
city council that we no longer uh or the board no longer supports uh this applicant and would recommend that they revoke their uh I'll make that motion. >> Resolution of support because they don't even have a local license. >> All right, I'll make that motion. >> I'll second that motion.
>> Chairperson Kappovitz, >> I. >> Chairperson Patel, >> yes. >> Commissioner Naprioski, >> I. >> Commissioner Pepe, >> yes. >> All right. I'll have that ready for the next meeting then. >> Okay. Next is CCB22-9
Butler and Baldwin, 75 Martin Luther King Drive. Uh so >> status update, >> Mr. Chairman, if I might go right ahead. >> So this particular application was on for uh the uh April 27th meeting and the
board did indeed vote uh to send a resol resolution to the city council indicating that uh the CCB would no longer support this applicant and would suggest that their resolution of support uh be revoked. I had some conversations uh with Maynard and I don't know there
may have been some miscommunication with the applicant maybe not but we wanted to give them one more opportunity perhaps to show up this evening uh and make a pitch for a motion for reconsideration but obviously if they're not here this evening and I don't know mayor if you
want to add anything to the equation uh the >> there's there is nobody here for this uh you know application Butler and um Baldwin is there. Okay. They're not sure. They haven't shown up. >> And mayor, could you just succinctly put
on the record all of the efforts that you >> and in addition to um reaching out by email, even just asking for a suggestion of a some written communication on an update on status on what's happening with the license that has not been answered. Um, as far as the update, um,
there was an email that some of the misinformation that she felt like, why am I coming back when you've already voted to revoke my license? And I, you know, I attempted to, you know, we're giving you another bite at the apple, you know, return or give us an update and we'll get the board to maybe
reconsider it. But I did not receive a response. >> I'm I make a motion that we send to the council they revoke their license. Um, so in other words, we would just simply renew the vote from the last meeting, April 27th. Okay, that's fine.
Yeah. >> Do we have to vote again on it? >> Uh, no. Um, >> okay. >> We don't. This was their opportunity for a motion for reconsideration where they could have argued and I guess that's not happening, Mr. Chairman. >> Okay. Two down.
Uh, one approved, two down. Okay. Next. CCB23-50, White Lotus Dispensary Status Update. >> Same situation, Mr. Chairman. Um, after speaking with Maynard, we thought we would give them uh another opportunity. They said maybe they would show up,
maybe they wouldn't show up. Go ahead, Mark. >> Hey, I have an update. >> I have an update about them as well. I did reach out and finally got in touch with the owners and they did say they were going ahead and bowing out. >> Bowing out, meaning they're not >> you are no longer moving forward with
the application. Okay. >> So, that would mean that we simply reconfirm the vote as of for April 27th to send the resolution to the city council indicating that this board can no longer support this applica applicant and suggest revoking the resolution of support.
>> Okay. Next, CCB22-06 Tyson 2.0 404 Central Avenue. Also, excuse me, also a status update. Is anybody here for um Tyson?
Not seeing anyone or hearing anyone. Is there any communication regarding them? >> Speed is going faster than I thought. >> Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Uh, let's see. >> It's basically what I sent you guys the
>> review. So, the Division of Commerce received a status update submission from Tyson 2.0, formerly known as Decades Dispensary, >> just in case you guys didn't know who that was regarding the current progress of the proposed cannabis business located at 404
um Central Avenue. Um, based on the information provided by the applicant, the following updates were noted. The applicant advised they are currently awaiting issuance of a CO prior to opening for business. The applicant confirmed that permits for construction and buildout have been obtained and
provided copies of related permits and inspection documentation. The applicant advised they remain in communication with the state of New Jersey regarding inspections and approvals. The applicant indicated that annual state approvals uh was received on June 9th, 2023. The
applicant stated that they have been there's been delays impacting opening timelines including issues relating to sprinkler systems installation HVAC uh coordinations with PSENG for power upgrades. Um they also stated further indicated that there have been no
changes in ownership at this time as well. Um if there's any support they they did update and send some supporting documents. I sent some of those things to you earlier and the Division of Commerce will just keep continuing to monitor the applicant's progress if you
choose to allow them to move forward. >> Have they paid their fees? >> So, there's just a they paid their application fee. These are people are just um >> Okay, so they're in limbo. >> Yeah, they haven't opened yet. >> Uh remind me when we first heard it.
>> They're supposed to be here. >> They're supposed to be here. The applicant stated they would be in attendance tonight, >> right? That's what it says on your >> Yeah. >> Yeah. I find it perplexing that, you know, if they've >> This is from 20 2022.
Approved June 13, 2022. Uh planning approval 32822. City council approval 817, 2022. It is now April 18th, 2026. And they still don't have a CO,
>> right? When we don't have And they're not here. >> Yeah. >> I mean, if I was an applicant and I wanted um to get an extension, I would have been here at 4:00. >> Me, too. >> Also, that update, I just didn't mean to interrupt. That update was most recent
update. So, they did send their uh status update form to give us that information to let us know where they were in the process. So, I gave applicants um the applicants from March till now. So, anybody that submitted
updates as of March 2026, that was recent um updates. So, they did submit an recent updated status. >> Do we have any idea if they I they're completely built out on their facility or partially built out or nothing?
>> I can't speak on that. >> We don't know. What's the any idea what the date is or the year on these construction permits? >> You know, because if they took them out three years ago, they ain't got the money, >> right? >> Yeah. >> I don't have the dates because they said
they would send the >> Yeah. It says, >> yeah, >> it says supporting documentation submitted by the applicant included copies of construction permits, inspection records. So perhaps the board might give this applicant another 30
days. Um but obviously if the construction permits or the building permits are several years old, that just means they can't find the finance, >> right? >> Yeah, I'm looking at it here. There's permits issued in 23, but there's recent ones issued as recently as December of
202 December of 2025. >> Okay. >> What What permits are those 2025? >> Yeah. >> Uh looks like electric. They're electrical. >> It's the board's pleasure. >> There's two ways, three ways we can deal with this. We can postpone it once again
for an update. Two, we could basically revoke our approval to the and ask the council to remove it and let the council decide what they want. They could basically give them some more time and send it back to us. Uh I mean this is
you know literally it's four years that you know we've heard this and everything through it. Uh what's what's I would I mean at best give them one more cycle. That's it though. >> If they've got permits from December
2025 I mean I'm looking at that as almost not resetting the clock but it shows something. >> Yeah. >> Right. So >> I mean >> Okay. So that how do you have proof for that? >> The um what Marqueia sent us earlier there's there's screenshots and pictures of of the of the construction permits.
They have approval for fire protection that was dated looks like April 24. >> Yeah, I didn't see that. >> That was sent earlier today, I think. Yeah. >> Which is why it's not in my packet. >> Yeah. You know, I'll tell you what. Let's be generous and
require them. >> We could be, like I said, there's to to me it's two ways of going. We either say go to the council and that we're our opinion should be revoked and let them argue with the council to come back to
us or we give them one shot that they must be here. Uh what's the next meeting? June >> 22nd. >> June >> June 22nd. Uh that's good. I'm I'm just back for my next trip. Um
uh if they're not here Yeah. And you know something if you want those are the two options they have till the 22nd. they're not here with actual evidence of construction and you know where they are with the city. Uh we'll send you know to
the council to revoke it. >> I agree. >> Yeah. Chairman, I agree with you. >> All right. >> Let them know. So >> that's a motion to adjourn to the next meeting. >> Correct. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Next >> on a motion.
>> Oh, sorry. Yes. >> Don't have to. >> Okay. We're basically the motion is that they have to be here at the next meeting with a complete detailed update where they are. If they do not show up or they show up and they don't have any
evidence, we're going to send to the council that their license should be revoked. >> Is there a second? >> I'll second the motion. >> Okay. Call the vote. >> Chairperson Kaplowitz, >> I. >> Chairperson Patel, >> yes. >> Commissioner Napioski,
>> I. >> Commissioner Pepe, >> yes. >> Okay. Next. CCB22-33. Backpack Boys, 746 Grant Street. Status update.
>> Oh, we got somebody here. >> Make yourself comfortable. Please have a seat. >> All right. Would you please raise your right hand? Do you swear affirm the testimony about to give you the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth help you got? >> I do. >> You could put your hand down, please.
>> State your name. Uh, spell your last name and give us your address. >> Analyia Volani. V I L L A N I. Our address is 746 Grand Street, New Jersey. Jersey City. >> I'm sorry, what was your name again?
>> Analyia. So on the original application says >> that I have it says Elizabeth Sandberg owns 100% of the business. >> Yes. She was not able to make it today. Neither was her son Brett Sandberg. And so they let you guys know that I would
be attending for them. >> What's your what's your what's your >> I am the director of operations. >> Okay. >> So swear her in. >> I just did. >> Okay. Just wasn't paying attention. >> That's okay. Okay. So, what I read here
is that you've gotten all through everything and you're waiting for the certificate of occupancy. >> Yes, sir. >> So, everything is done. >> Yes, sir. >> And when do you expect to get the certificate? >> We have our final tomorrow and we hope to have it within seven days.
>> Okay. Uh any questions from the board? Can I see that? >> Uh any any questions from the staff or statements? Nothing. So >> So when I'm sorry, when when you say final, what are you referring to? >> They're coming to do our final
inspection tomorrow. >> Uh the city >> city building department. >> Um so does that mean you have >> All right. So you're going to get your CO. When is the state coming in for >> The state will be coming in as soon as I
give them the CO. >> And I've already they've already been out twice. um they came out and inspected us. So, we pretty much have done everything that they've asked from us. >> So, we're just waiting on the CO. >> So, the city's coming in tomorrow.
>> The state is going to be coming in when? >> Um as soon as I call her. >> Okay. >> Yes. As soon as I have the CO, she will come in and um and do our final inspection. >> But she's already been there twice, so we shouldn't have any issues. They already have um access to our cameras. They have everything that they need from
us. legal opinion. Um, we could carry this to the next meeting or we could give a approval based upon evidence that the city signed off and the state signed off.
>> Okay. So, you could do either one. Um, it certainly has taken several years to get to this point. It looks like you were before us in 2022. >> 22. Yeah. >> Yes. M so I would suggest that perhaps you give
them 90 days a 90-day in German and then come in and um because they've got to do a a a uh they came to us in 2022 for a preliminary. We still have never done a final. Final is done when they have all
of their ducks in a row. So do you think you'll have all those ducks in a row within 90 days? >> We will. We should have them within this week. Okay. >> So, we bring them >> carried to June. >> We bring them back for a final >> Okay. >> review. >> And if they get it before the 90 days,
just let us know and we may schedule you for an earlier meeting. >> Right. >> Wonderful. >> The next meeting is June 22. >> Did you want to do 90 days? Because June may be very aggressive. Uh I don't think they're going to have their ducks in a row by June. It's May. >> Maybe August. >> Well, >> no. I would recommend I'm saying if we
give them the full 90 days today, but if they happen to get all those approvals earlier, let us know and we may put you want >> you can put us on the June. Okay. >> Yeah. >> Or July. >> Okay. >> So there's a motion to adjourn for 90 days with the understanding that if
you've got state approval, just let the main arts department know and we'll get you on for a final. >> Okay. And do we we have to come to you guys for the final before we can open obviously? >> Correct. Okay. Okay. Motion to adjurnn for 90 days.
>> Second. >> All right. Thank you for coming. >> Wonderful. Thank you. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? That takes care of that. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Carried.
Next. CCB 2223, Canada Boutique by Greenhouse, 125 Columbus Street. status update. >> Okay, come on up. Make yourself comfortable. >> Right. >> Yes.
>> Okay. Please raise your right hand. Do you score affirm the testimony about to give the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth to help you got? >> Yes. >> Please state your name, spell your last name, and give us your address. >> Jalissa Bonia. Uh, B O N I L L A 125 Christopher Columbus Drive, Jersey City,
New Jersey 07302. >> You don't, Mr. Chairman. >> Okay. I don't seem to have that. Okay. So, why don't you tell us where where you stand? >> Yes. Uh, I know it's been a while. Um, so I received city council approval on
April 26, 2023. Um, state approval October 25th, 2023. Um, after receiving the state approval, um, I searched and hired a design firm to create a state-of-the-art uh, dispensary and a lounge concept uh, that can live up to the downtown aesthetics. Um, took some
time to finalize and perfect, but once we finally got it to a place that I liked, we began to search for a contractor, which took a little while, but we officially submitted for permits in February 12th of 2025. Um, we thought it would be a three-month process to get the permits approved, but it has taken much longer than that. Um, I'll save you
with the gritty details and jump to the most recent. We literally just received the MUA approval for the permits last week on May 12th. Um, we submitted the MUA just to give you an idea of how long this process has been taking to the MUA in December of 2025. The weather has been horrible. We had a horrible winter.
We had to do a sewer inspection and the sewer was all frozen. So, we had to wait weeks for it to to melt so we can put the camera down there. Um, so finally around March we were able to do that and then we just now got the MUA approval or paid the fee and we had an issue last week. >> When you say MUA, that's the municipal
sewer authority. >> Um, utility authority of Jersey City. Yeah. >> Water and sewage, >> right? Um, so we have that finally. Now we're waiting on the final building permits so we can start the build out. >> So the buildout is all done. >> No, we're still we need the final permit to begin the buildout.
>> Okay. So So that's where we're at now. >> We're still at that. And what is your projection once you get the permit build out and get the final? >> Right. We're hoping to begin the buildout in the summer barring the final building uh permits, right?
>> Um and we I ideally will get open by the end of this year. >> So, a building permit you can go down tomorrow and get a building permit. Okay. >> And then start construction. >> Um it's not until everything is done and inspected you get the CO,
>> right? Um, so what what's the hold up for getting a building permit? >> Well, from my understanding, you have to get all the paperwork in. The MUA has to do their approval process in order for the building department to give you the okay to start construction. Um, this is a learning process for you, but that's my understanding.
>> Okay. So, you're saying it is now the end of May. So, you think if everything goes according, you should be in front of us November, December, >> God willing, yes, that's what I'm projecting. >> I'll tell you what,
if the board uh agrees to this, have her come back in 90 days for an update. I I agree. uh having worked in the con in construction and uh dealing with the building department the building permits can take an internably long time >> right so 90 days would be June July
August um a lot of people on vacation in August let's call it September >> September so uh I make a motion that we carry this till September to get a update on where you stand
>> that's fine with me y Second. >> All in favor say I. >> I. >> I. >> I. >> All right. Good luck. >> Thank you so much. >> Oh, yeah. You know how long sometime it takes me to close a deal because there are open permits and to get them to
close. Oh, okay. Next application. CCB22-31 Chilltown Dispensary, 326 Central Avenue, status update. Okay, so no one's here from Chilltown.
Let's just read this real quickly. >> No, go ahead. You read it. >> Give me one second. Sorry, >> I have to ask a question. the main person who resides in Florida. >> Yeah.
>> We're interested in selling the business. So why don't we just turn him down? >> Yeah. >> Make it easy so he has nothing to sell. >> Well, first of all, could you answer the question? uh says here that uh
one of the own the the business owners they currently reside in Florida. So is anybody on that original application that we approved um lives in New Jersey. >> I believe I believe there was an
applicant the other owner but I wasn't able to get in touch with him. The only one I was able to get in touch with was the um gentleman that lives in Florida. And >> yeah, I was apparently emailing an old uh no good email and he did give me an
updated email. Um but yeah, >> well, >> would you like me to read on the record what I found? So, the Division of Commerce has not formally received detailed status update from Chilltown Dispensary despite prior outreach attempts. staff notes that multiple
emails sent to the applicant were either not responded to or communication remained limited. Um on May 12th, 2026, the Division of Commerce successfully made telephone contact with one of the business owners who advised that they currently reside in Florida. During that conversation, the owner stated that the
ownership group is more interested in selling the business and may ultimately decide not to move forward with the cannabis operation. During that call, the owner provided an updated email and requested that the cannabis applicant status
update form be sent resent to that email, which I did. The Division of Commerce forwarded the requested form on that date. Um, currently, Division of Commerce is awaiting a formal written response and updated status submission from the applicant regarding whether they intend to continue pursuing the
project or formally withdraw from the process. So, usually when someone says that, we ask them to give us something in writing and we haven't gotten that either. >> And there's no representation here. No. >> And the fact is that they haven't moved
anywhere near to open up. Uh, and if they're looking to sell something, they really have nothing to sell. >> Uh, >> they were here November 14th, 2022, and nothing has happened since then. >> Yeah. You know, my opinion is that, you
know, we should request the uh uh council to revoke the license. In fact, I'll make that motion. >> I'll second it. >> All in favor say I. >> I. >> I. >> Done. Okay. Next one.
Ah, CCB22-35, Neon Heights, 535 Newick Avenue. Status update. >> No show. >> Let the record reflect yet another applicant has failed to attend.
>> Right. >> I have an update about that. She did just call and she had an emergency and actually request if she can just be placed on the very next one cuz she does want to come in and give her update. But she had a medical emergency with >> Yeah, this is the one she's having legal
issues with the landlord. Uh I mean I don't know how to approach this. You want to give her another shot for the next meeting? >> I think we have to. I mean I think we should since she's saying it's involving legal action, >> right?
>> Yeah. All right. >> And she called. So with that respect at least. >> Yeah. I agree. >> I agree. >> Okay. So, uh, is there a motion to >> I'd move to carry it one more cycle. >> Okay. I second that. >> All in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Opposed. Asions.
>> That would be the June meeting, Mr. Ch. >> Okay. Let's see. Next one is uh CCB22-14 Kushmark, Jersey, 1521 JFK Boulevard,
Jersey City. Status update. Is anybody here? >> Oh, smart move. >> Uh, who's going to be testifying? >> Both of us. Yes. >> All right. Um, please both raise your right hand. You swear affirm the testimony about to give the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth
to help you God. >> Put your hand down. Please state your name. Spell your last name. Give us your address. Ladies first. >> Mindy Oak. Last name spelled okay. 1521 Kennedy Boulevard. >> Jersey City. >> Next. >> Yes.
>> Beat off. I f 1521 Kennedy Boulevard. Jersey City. >> Back to you, Mr. Chairman. >> Okay. Well, we're here. Give us an update where you stand. >> You were last here July 11th, 2022.
>> Correct. We got planning board approval February 21st, 2023. Then it took about 8 months to get city council approval October 25th, 2023. We had a pending lawsuit against us from our competitor Ordunia at 202 Cannabis because of the
600 ft rule and he didn't want us to open basically. So he was doing everything he could to prevent us from opening and he lost the lawsuit I guess in Jersey City. Then he filed an appeal,
lost it at the state level and now you know his only option would be I guess the Supreme Court which is ridiculous. >> I doubt not taking that. >> Yeah. I mean ultimately I think his the whole point was for him to slow us down financially to constantly fight this
lawsuit. I mean he lost twice. Was it a a multi-state operator? >> He Yeah, he is. >> They own more business. Correct. From out of state. >> Yeah, he owns some in New York. >> Okay. >> Correct. So, in terms of construction, we're almost there. We have probably a
few more weeks. >> Yeah. All the plumbing, electrical, everything is done. Um, all the framing is done. Just the final touches. Contractor said four to five weeks. >> Okay. So, you've applied for the final CO. Once they're done, then we're going to apply for final SEO.
>> Okay. Uh state what is >> we have an appointment with the uh state inspector for a site visit on Friday. >> Okay. Um >> I missed that. You have an inspection with who? >> The state inspector. >> Okay. The CRC inspector. >> Correct.
>> Okay. >> On Friday. So your estimate to determine final approval CO and open and being able to open up come back here for the final >> six to eight weeks.
>> Okay. So uh give 90 days >> and we also have a change of ownership. We added two more partners onto our license. >> Okay. Uh has the primary owners of 51% still the same? >> Yes.
>> Yeah. You will have to update the application when you return for your final resolution of support. You only have a preliminary. >> So, how do you want to >> running? >> Okay. >> Just update your application. >> Okay.
>> All right. Is there a motion? >> I'll move to carry it for 90 days. >> Second. >> All in favor say I. I. >> I. Opposed. Extensions. So moved. Thank you for showing up. Thank you. Thank you. >> Yeah. Absolutely.
Yeah. >> Okay. Next. CCB22-21 BUD Space 270 Newark Avenue status update. >> Mr. Chairman, let the record reflect. Apparently there the applicant is not in attendance.
>> Okay. Um let's see. Just want to read. We were here September 12th, 2022. >> Yeah. >> This is not a good one. >> No, this one needs to be turned down, >> right? But we should put uh this on the record.
>> On the record. Maybe needs to do it. Please put on the record your um points. >> Okay. So, the last formal status update received uh by the Division of Commerce from Budpace LLC was dated June 14,
2024. In that submission, the applicant advised that an annual conversion application had been submitted to the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission, CRC, and that the business was working through outstanding cure items requested by the state. The
applicant anticipated receiving final state approval by the end of 2024. The applicant further indicated at that time that they anticipated opening for business during the first quarter of 2025. Since the June 14, 2024 submission, the
Division of Commerce has made multiple attempts to contact the applicant regarding updated business status and progress. Uh, multiple emails, communications sent to email address currently on file for the applicant are now being returned as undeliverable and
appear to be bouncing back. Telephone outreach attempts have also been made. However, no direct contact has been established. Calls placed to the applicant have gone unanswered, although voicemail messages were successfully left requesting a return call and
updated status information. At this time, the Division of Commerce has not received any updated status report provided timeline or additional communication from the applicant since June 2024. >> Oh, yeah. >> Okay. So, any discussion?
>> Move to revoke. >> Okay. Is there a second? >> Second. >> All in favor say I. >> I. I. >> Opposed. Extension. So moved. And for the record, uh, we'll have the board's attorney send all these to the,
uh, city council. >> I'm I'm going to draft a resolution indicating why. Uh, we're suggesting that and, um, we'll memorialize them at the next meeting. >> Right. Okay.
Next. CCB 22-36, Greener on Grove, 608 Grove Street. Status update. Good evening. Who's going to be testifying? >> Uh, both of us. >> Both of us. >> When you get comfortable, please raise your right hand. Do you swear affirm the
testimony you're about to give me the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? Help you God. >> I do. >> Put your hands down, and starting with the ladies, please state your name. Spell your last name, and give us your business address. >> Uh, Sering Co., last name Ko, 608 Gro
Street, Jersey City, New Jersey 07301. >> Uh, Haynes Co. uh last name spelled KO 608 Gro Street City, New Jersey. >> Germany. >> So, let's give give us an update where you stand, what's been accomplished, what's been done, what's still
outstanding. >> We we have had a lot of construction delays and it's been really hard. Um but we are but we finally got all of our utilities installed and we plan to call for a final inspection
this summer and hope to open in the fall. Okay. Um, have you contacted the department, you know, the building department for the inspection yet or not yet? >> Not quite yet. >> Okay. How much work do you still have to do on the place? >> It's we actually called for pre-final
and they um they gave us some things to go through and we're remedying everything right now. >> Okay. So, are there any questions? If not, I would suggest doing a 90-day return.
I'd second that. All in favor say I. I >> opposed. Extension. So moved. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Next on the hit list. Okay. CCB CCB 23-60
Alura Tune Inc. 433 Palisade Avenue. Status update. >> All right. Good evening. Make >> Are we both ladies and gentlemen? >> Who's going to be testifying? >> Both of us. >> All right. Please raise your right hand. You swear from the testimony about to give the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. I hope you got
it. >> We do. >> We do. >> Okay. You can put your hands down. Please state your name. Spell your last name. Give us your address. Start it with the lady. >> Amanda Row, 433 Palisade Avenue, Jersey City. Sir, >> uh, >> Richard Fiero, 433 Palisade Avenue,
Jersey City. >> Okay, that give us an update. What you've accomplished so far, where you stand, what still has to get done. >> We are very, very happy and proud to say that we have gotten all of our approvals
from the state, from the town. We are here asking for your blessing and I believe we are ready to move forward and open. Oh, so you've already gotten your your CO. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> And both from the city and the state. >> Yes. >> So, oh, so you're just here for a final
>> correct >> rule. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> So, um, let me just digest this. You've got your CO. When is the state coming in to give you their final >> license? He's already signed off. We have our license here.
>> All right. Um, and then you have got to apply for a state I'm sorry, a local Yes. >> Can I see that? Yeah. >> Thank you. Uh, you've got to apply for your local license and obviously pay the fee. >> Yes. >> Thank you. I'll get this right back to you.
>> Yeah. It's funny that they say this. Uh, this is not a final final, but they'll be back for a final inspection. Okay. But that's almost there, >> right? So, um, at this point in time, we can't give you a final approval, but we
can have you come back. The reason we can't give you a final approval because we need all the documents that are complete, then you have to come for an actual final presentation and a vote to for us to let you move forward.
>> So, we can do a final resolution. You need not bring an attorney. You don't have to bring any security guards. We know from the first application and I'll supply >> this is your transcript from the one back in 2022. I'll supply that to the
board. >> Uh who was Allison Reynolds? I'm sorry. >> She was our attorney at the time. >> Oh, there you go. Right. >> Yeah. Yeah. All the attorneys are gone now. Right. Yes. Money left. But >> and ownership still remains the same. >> Yes. >> No additions, no deletions. Okay. Again,
you can't you can't open up until everything is signed off coming back to us to give a vote and that's not >> my I'm not understanding what the difference >> the process works is you came before us for a preliminary approval >> tonight
>> the ordinance correct correct >> okay um the ordinance requires that once you have all your ducks in a row come back to us >> for a final uh approval final final resolution of support. That's what we've
done for all the applicants. >> So that would mean that the soft opening that you have scheduled for the beginning of June, you would likely have to be back here June 22nd, I would think. >> Might be able to change. >> Oh, really? Be able to get around?
>> Can I see this? Well, >> well, the state's going to come in and do a final inspection and they're >> they've already done their final inspection and signed off >> today. He asked to have he asked to monitor our cameras and he did that today. That's the only thing that he hasn't done. He told me that he Mr.
Spirano, he said he's not coming back. >> Okay. We gave him we gave him access to our cameras today and that's all that he was waiting for. He actually told me, "Rich, I have no reason to come back there. You guys are all set." He came and gave us his final inspection. >> Okay, we the process has changed once
again. >> So, we're being updated now. >> So, >> once you once you pay the Department of Commerce, good luck. >> Great. >> All right. So, basically, all you're looking for now is a final vote so you can pay and get the approval and open.
>> Yes. >> Congratulations. Thank you. >> Is there a motion? >> I'll move to >> Is there a second? >> Second. >> Okay. All in favor say I. >> I. Hi. >> Hi. >> Congratulations. >> Congrats. Best of luck. Thank you. >> Okay. >> I just have one question before we
leave. >> Um, regarding the final Jersey City license that will be obtained once we make the payment to the Department of Commerce. >> Yes. >> I'm sorry. >> Immediately the license right away. >> Okay.
>> After payment. Yes. Payment. Right. >> Okay. So, we have to remit that to Marquia. >> Yes. She'll invoice you. >> We'll get an invoice. >> Yes. Okay, perfect. >> Once you get there, you open up the doors and you become very green. >> Very green. Thank you. >> Congratulations.
>> Congrats again, guys. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Congratulations. >> That was a surprise. >> Yeah. >> Okay. Next. CCB 2355. >> Highkey 2011, 95 Monosel Avenue. Status
update. This one I don't think I have. >> Also called Luku. Is that it? Stanford. >> All I have is uh Oh, excuse me. >> Yeah. Buu culture. >> Buu culture. >> Oh, I apologize. >> Oh, you just skipped one. >> I just skipped one. C uh CCB 22-42 Buu
Culture, 390 Tunnel Avenue. Status update. I apologize. >> These guys are ready to walk. >> How you doing? Good. Good. >> They started over. Okay.
Oh, that's these folks. Okay. >> You want to see it, Mr. Chairman, and pass it back? >> All right. Uh, are you here as their attorney? >> Yes, I am. >> We don't see that anymore. All the money's gone. >> Right. All right. >> 2022 there. We're always attorneys
making 12250 an hour here. >> All right. Uh, so, um, is this your only witness? >> Yes. >> Please raise your right hand. Do you swear affirm the testimony about to give the truth, old truth, and nothing but the truth? I'll be God. >> I do. >> Would you put your hand down, please? State your name, spell your last name, and give us your address here.
>> Ben Paranti. It's spelled P I R O N TI. Address is 390 Tonnelly Avenue, Jersey City. >> You're a witness counselor. >> Um, okay. >> Tell us where we're at. Or you can do it through your witness, whatever you want. >> Yeah, I think it's best if Ben gives an update on what's been going on because I
know it's been a while. The last time you were here were January 23rd, 2023. >> Yeah. So, I'll just just to set that stage. Um, it was November of 29, 2023 when the final resolution of support, the original resolution of support was
issued by the city council and the planning documents were the planning approval was also received. Those are the two prerequisite documents that are needed to apply for the state annual license. So once those documents got in hand, we started working on their SOPs, additional plans that need to be
submitted to the state. March of 2024 is when that final state application was submitted. The approval from the state did not come in until December 12, 2024. Um, took some time. I think a little bit of that had to do with just required, you know, additional questions. They
wanted some information on finances, making sure that the applicant had proof of funds. after that happened. Um, we're talking now January 2025. Ben, I'll just let you share because that's a bit personal. >> Um,
during that time we had uh we had a few setbacks. Uh, the first one was with our architectural plans. There was uh some issues with the design of the dispensary as the architect that we had used. He didn't really understand exactly what
our needs were and he did some there were some design issues where we ended up having to redesign the whole entire interior. >> Did you actually do a buildout first? >> No. >> Okay. >> No, no, no. This is this is just the architectural design. That took quite a
long time for him to uh get that done. And you know the talk the clock was ticking and it was getting really frustrating. But anyway, we got through that and um from that point
um we finally got through uh we started we started on on the construction doing our site work. We got all our approvals and everything and um right before that time we had some a
personal setback. Our my mother passed away. She was in the she was hospitalized quite a long time and and it it was it was just really bad. >> True. >> But um that that was another setback. >> But anyway, got through that and we
started doing um all the the site work first. And while they were doing the site work, they started working on the building. Everything at this point is all framed out. The site works just about done. We couldn't do anything because the weather started getting cold, so they couldn't finish that. But
now that it's warm, I would say, I mean, we're talking about just finishing it and paving it now. That's really all that has to be done. There has to be another uh inspection, I believe. Um, and then they're going to go ahead and pave that. So then that'll be all done. The parking lot, everything will be
done. All the curving's done. I mean, we have quite a bit done, >> but uh >> Well, the interior is done. >> The interior is not done. >> Oh, it's not done. >> No. >> Okay. >> That's what we're working on getting done next. >> The walls have been put up, though, right? >> Yeah. All All the framing and everything is done, right? >> We have all the exterior getting ready
to have that put on, but it just needs all the drywall and all that stuff done. >> And the new plans that he's talking about, the new architectural plans, they got approved in June 2025. So after those new plans got approved, that's when they really started to do the build out.
>> Right. So okay, from this point on projection because basically uh you're not ready for a final. So how 90 days you think or longer? >> So this is the same as the last applicant, >> right?
>> Um once they get their state approval and pay uh the division of commerce, they're ready to open up. >> Well, yes and no. There's a little difference is the other one was totally built out and ready to open the doors. >> They need to get the CO still. Um they had one uh state inspector come out to
do the initial walkthrough last year. So they still have to come once the CO is in hand or the temporary CO state will come back to do the final walkthrough once they say it's okay. Then we'll give the operational date best case. We're we're giving a longer date just to be realistic if November 1st to be
>> November. So why don't we reschedu you to come back uh >> November. Ben, >> that should work. Yeah. >> So, I I have just a couple quick questions. So, does Mr. Smith still own 51% of the business? >> Miss Smith. Yeah.
>> Ronnie Smith. Miss Kelly owns 39%. Correct. >> And you own 5%. >> Five. Yes. >> Okay. All right. >> And Claire or Miss Kelly is u Ben's wife. >> All right. Well, >> just >> she's not change. >> No.
>> Now, you anticipate to open November 1st. So, do we want to have them back October earlier or do you is November realistic? >> Well, if we if we get ahead of schedule, is that something we can go ahead and reschedule it for early? >> Absolutely. I'm just thinking that, you know, uh the Jersey City Building
Department, the state coming down. Yeah. You know, construction if we get like, you know, some bad weather, things stop. >> Yes, I'm familiar with all the delays. >> Right. So, I'm just thinking that we come back, we schedule for November, but if you're done earlier Oh, absolutely. If we have room uh you know to see in
October, that's fine, too. I'm not going to try to delay anything. I'm just being realistic. And I, as you already know from experience that uh >> you know, >> it is what it is. >> But it sounds like you're almost there.
>> Yes. >> And I thank you very much for showing up to give us the full details. All right. >> Thank you. >> So, is there a motion to carry this to the November meeting? Motion. >> Is there a second? >> Second.
>> All in favor say I. I. Opposed. Sension. So move. See you in November. I earier. >> Thanks. >> Good to see you. Bye. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Okay. Uh. Okay. So, the next one is CCB 23-55
Highkey 2011 95 Monosel Avenue status update. And yes, someone else shows up. All right. Uh, good evening. Would you please uh raise your right hand? You swear affirm the testimony about to give you the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth help you God. >> Yes. >> Would you put your hand down, please?
State your name and give us your address. >> Craig Dilla, D A B I L A 95 Monaceel Avenue. >> And you are the primary owner 1%. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Okay. So, um,
>> CCB approval date. I received that on March 27th, 2023. Um, I received my planning board approval date on August 22nd, 2023. And I received my city council approval 11823.
Um, as of January, um, we received our framing and our plumbing um, inspections. Um, that was done on uh, after that. Um, we also within that same week, we also received our CRC inspection. Um currently next week we
will be submitting our um electrical um paperwork for inspection. Um once we've received that um all our walls is built out um we have the cameras in place. We have the flooring. So once we receive our electrical permit we will then close
out within a week or two. So with the CO and then the final inspection by >> Yep. Um Yep. After after a week or two after receiving the um plumbing approval to close up um we should be done within one or two weeks to finish up um closing
the store. Everything is already built out. Um once we do once we receive that we contact um the city for the CO. Um all our paperwork is already in place with um our state inspec inspector. So once we once we've received the CO um we
go ahead and um get our inspection date. >> No changes in ownership. >> No changes. >> Uh I think what's realistic is we'll put you down for 90 days again if you're if you get, you know, things done fast. Give a call and we'll try to squeeze you
in. >> 90 days I think is realistic. >> I agree. >> Uh is there a motion? >> Move to carry it. 90 days. >> Second. >> Second. >> All in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Opposed. Abstentious. So move. See you. >> All right. Thank you. >> Have a great day. >> Thank you.
>> Okay. >> Yeah, I got no problem. >> Right. Well, >> oh, so we're at the end now. >> Oh, yeah. Uh >> okay. Oh, okay. Gotcha. So, the next is
memorializations of resolutions. >> Uh Mr. Chairman, >> why don't you read all of them and take one vote? >> That sounds fine. Um you're the only one who is ineligible to vote. The rest of the members uh are. So, uh, in the matter of the application of Cream
Dispensary, in the matter of the application Lady L, uh, Cannabis LLC, in the matter of Clone Cannabis Dispensary, formerly known as Golden Door Dispensary, these are all U renewal resolutions. in the matter of Legacy to uh Lifted LLC and the matter of Jersey
Dispensary formerly known as CAN XA Group in the matter of the application of Euphoria LLC and the matter of Bay Street Greenery formerly known as WR Wellness LLC and then the matter of Benedict's uh supply. I did circulate
the resolutions for the most part uh with the exception of Cream Dispensary, they're pretty much the same. cream dispensary, you may recall, had several violations which are highlighted in the resolutions. Unfortunately, there were violations and penalties. They were for failure to verify the ages of the
customer. The applicant testified that updates were made to their standard operating procedures and they added additional training of staff. I'll entertain any questions, comments, modifications at this point. Hearing none, seeing none, I'd ask for a motion followed by a second.
>> Motion. >> Second. Second. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Let the record reflect that the chairman did not vote as he's recused on this. Finally, in the matter of the application of Grass House
Company, this applicant came before us on September 12th, 2023, October 16th, 2023, February 26, 2024, and presented plans to open a cannabis dispensary. Fast forward, he appeared on April 27,
2026 and presented his plans to open a manufacturing a class 2, a wholesale class 3, and distribution class for cannabis businesses. And of course, his desire to obtain the support from the CCB, which he did obtain. I circulated a
proposed resolution. Any comments, questions? This is a uh a preliminary resolution of finding conclusions and I'm probably going to be converting it to a final since apparently they took the final out of the ordinance. I'll double check that but Mayor directed me in that uh that lane. So I'd ask for a
motion followed by a second to adopt >> a second. >> All in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? I'll note that the chairman did not vote and he's he was recused. Thank you. >> That's it. >> Yeah. Okay.
>> Yeah. So, uh my understanding is that you'd like to speak with us. Uh please step forward. This is as part of the open public comment area. >> Who wants to speak? >> Anybody want to speak?
>> You're here. >> So, you don't have to do this, but it's nice. >> Yeah, I think so. Yeah. >> Hello again. Um, >> you remain sworn. >> Okay. Um, I wanted to talk about the um,
consumption lounge rules. Um, as I mentioned earlier, I do want to open up a consumption lounge in downtown, and it's my understanding they're only allowing one per ward, which I understand. Um, I understand you guys were also presented with an outdoor lounge concept within downtown, which I
do kind of question what the rules are around that. Um, based on me reading the ordinances that Jury City put forward, I believe that an outdoor lounge, while it can be fully enclosed, it must not be visible to the public, including backyards. Uh, it must also be at least
200 feet away from any residential space. An outdoor lounge can not allow cannabis smoke to permeate through public air either. Um, even if you have fans, the smoke has to go somewhere, right? Um, and seeing how everyone in D City is in such close quarters, I don't see how an outdoor lounge could be
possible in our vicinity in downtown. Another ordinance >> board may agree with you, by the way. I'm not sure. Right. Yeah. >> You and I had this discussion. It's kind of I don't see how you can possibly hide the fact that people are smoking or
the smell, >> right? Yeah. Especially when you're outside. We walk outside and we smell it every day. So, right, >> putting a a lounge in the backyard doesn't really make any sense. Uh, another ordinance that I found, I don't know if this was finalized, but um, I looked at the document called floor amendments, and there was a sentence in
there that said an outdoor cannabis consumption area shall not be colloccated with any residential use in the same structure or on the same lot. To my understanding, that means it can't be in a mixeduse building, which I believe most dispensaries are in a mixeduse building other than mine. Um,
so just wanted to bring that out there, put that out there. Um, so I believe that my application for a lounge when I am able to put it forward is probably the best possible option for a lounge in downtown. >> So you're thinking of doing a open air or >> No, I'm doing indoor lounge. Okay.
>> But since we're only allowing one per ward, you know, >> right? Uh downtown. Okay. >> W E doesn't have one. >> It shouldn't be. We uh Oh, I I don't know. Downtown we don't have one, right? >> We have a pending application. So that's why she's But the pending application
for the consumption lounge is outdoor. >> Oh, >> and it was at the last meeting. Yes. >> Okay. So I'm a little light on this. I didn't, you know, I just heard about it uh like a week ago from Ron. Uh >> I don't see it passed the council and
they put it in. >> It hasn't gone in front of the council. >> Okay. So they're returning back to this board. >> Right. It's uh it's I think it's wrong. I mean, it it's we're going to get a lot of complaints, >> but >> So, we're not talking about the merits
of that application. The applicant's not here. Um, but I can tell you that it appears that the board may may disfavor outdoor uh lounges for for the reasons that you have uh cited. I mean, sure, you could put a big wall around it, but the smoke is going to eventually go
somewhere. >> And it's very visible, >> right? I mean, I'm here, so I figured let me just bring it up to the board. >> No. I appreciate that. >> Thank you guys. Thank you. >> Okay. Is that the only issue that we have to deal with as from the public?
>> You want to speak? Okay. Anybody else? I hear no one. So I I you before we go. >> Sure. >> I want to discuss uh >> Oh, the ordinances.
>> Right. So, we since this ended a lot quicker than I thought, uh it's only 6:17. Uh I' I'd like to open this discussion up to the board members that what we think
is still a problem. uh and that I'd like us to come up with a solution for us, you know, moving forward with amendments to the cannabis ordinance and present it to the mayor and the council. Uh I don't
want to just leave it up to the legal department without any of our input. So, uh Ron, you want to start off? >> Yeah. you know, so uh you know, in the past we we have made some uh suggestions and uh you know, the city council's busy
for whatever reason. Uh it never got any traction, but you know, I obviously have drafted many ordinances for many towns. And there's some things that I would like to see in the ordinance for Jersey City. And you know, one of them being um if somebody hasn't done something with a
resolution of support in a year, it expires. Now, they could go to the council and ask for an extension for good cause and perhaps uh and most of my ordinances pay an additional fee. That's up to the the city council, but that's just one. Uh Mayor gave me a a great
idea. I was speaking to him about, you know, what type of enforcement do we have when folks don't want to pay the 2%, you know, municipal cannabis? Well, right now, you can only put a lean on the property that hurts the property owner, right? So many of my towns have
the applicants sign personal guarantees. Some of the towns don't like it, some do like it. Um, and so we should incorporate something like that. And may not, I've forgotten already what you told me. It was something else with enforcement, right? >> Well, we we talked about uh being able
to suspend uh for a period of time. And >> I'm True, but I was talking about the collection. what we're finding now and is, you know, one or two different applications that they haven't paid quarterly taxes for quite some time, but they're looking to sell the license, right? So, we should be able to um
require any sale of the license to come back to the board and one of the um it could be contingent upon, you know, the license being good status. And the reason I brought that up is because that's really what ABC transfers, I deal with a lot of ABC transfers. I've been handling ABC for about over 20 years.
and unless their taxes um with taxation, the division of taxation is in good standing, they can't transfer the license. It's actually a requirement that they have a tax clearance from the division of taxation before a license can be transferred. So, I'm suggesting that because even in tonight's caucus meeting with the council that came up
like, you know, we we are aware of a license that's attempting to sell and has admitted that attempted to sell, but they also owe us multiple quarters in taxes. you know what are the um what what tools do we have that could stop the transfer or force them to pay as
opposed to just walking away. So >> just like a real estate closing. >> Yes. >> Clean title at the end of the day. Pay everything up before you go to closing. >> That's a great idea. We should have that as a contingency to renewals that you've got to sign a personal guarantee. We
hopefully we'll never need it but that's one mechanism. Then to your point, Mr. chairman. Yeah, the board, this is the front line. We should have some teeth or the board should have some teeth. If somebody, you know, uh serves a minor, perhaps a warning or a suspension for a
week, uh um we can't revoke a license, but we should have the authority, I think, to actually suspend, issue fines, have a hearing as to what happened, what are, you know, what are you going to do to fix this problem, if anything, like we heard from one of the applicants. So,
um, there's a lot of ideas that I have, not because I'm the sharpest tool in the shed, but I've done it a hundred times. >> Right. Right. Right. So, uh, with the board's permission, uh, I would like to, you know, have Ron, Pat, myself, uh,
since the three of us don't don't come to a quorum to meet with Maynard and talk about what resolutions we'd like to pres present to the uh, council and the mayor. >> Amendments. >> You're talking about amendments to the
ordinance, correct? >> Amen. I apologize. Amendments. Yes. So, I think that it's time. I think that we have a new administration and a new council. I think that we have the ability to get things done that would make this a lot more viable.
And by the way, uh I would like to also see that anybody who's approved preliminarily here uh but hasn't opened, I don't want to hear that they're coming to us for time so they can sell the
license. there is no license, >> right? >> I agree. >> You know, so you know, I want to stop that. And also, you know, it'll basically put us more into uh the language of the audience of restricting
how many cannabis stores are out there >> and we can >> I'm sorry. >> Yeah. No, I certainly agree. Goes further into what we talked about earlier, >> right? So, and yeah, and like I said, uh right now the only the only ability that
we have is either deny uh renewal or give renewal. And we don't have any ability for uh issues that come up. I'd like us to look more like uh the ABC in that respect. >> Yeah. There's no there's no opportunity
for us to deal with nuance and just to deal with regular things that come up that prevent people through no fault of their own. >> Right. that prevent people from moving forward or or just a simple mistake. >> And and if it is an active business that decides to sell, we can't get in the way of that. But the ordinance can say,
"Okay, the person who bought it, you start from ground zero, right?" And there's no grandfathering in, >> right? >> Um that way we can eliminate those dispensaries that exceed the cap >> if they sell. >> Yes.
>> Yeah. Mhm. >> You know, again, if they haven't opened, they don't have a license. I I guess, you know, we're going to have to really figure out if it's an active business,
can they well, can they sell like any other business in the when is there a limitation on liquor license? There's only a certain amount of liquor license, but you can move them almost anywhere. >> You can move them anywhere. There's distance requirements throughout the city. Um very I mean we have uh
restaurant rows where there is no distance. Certain areas there's diff you know if it's a redevelopment area some of that's waved. Um the one plus about that we can possibly copy similar language that ABC has from the state level is when you have these inactive
licenses you're only allowed to be inactive for two years. Then you have to come back to the state and it's called a 1239 to explain why your activis your license has been inactive for such a long period of time and what actions have you taken to attempt to either
activate or sell them. Um there's been a um a long um issue with licenses. We've had some liquor licenses that have been inactive for 20 years in Jersey City and the state just recently took action where >> they um pretty much put the older
license in different quartiles that they either have to be activated by a certain date and we actually are approaching that date uh in July of this year for this a group that's in the second quartile and if they don't activate the license me meaning pretty much open for
business they lose the license. So, I mean, we we are seeing some scrambling of some sales of licenses and trying to get them activated because a license in Jersey City right now for a liquor license is worth between 3004,000. >> What the what the cannabis businesses
are trying to sell are the resolutions of support. That's all they have, >> right? And if there was if there was something in the ordinance that turned those resolutions of support into dust after a year, >> um we wouldn't have this problem, >> right?
>> With the ABC um with the liquor licenses. Now, if by July they don't they don't get activated, they go right back onto the open market. >> No, they're actually that's >> they're just gone. >> They're going to sunshine. >> Yes. Got it. >> Right. It used to be like that way back when when a license was only worth
10,000 and it used to sit there and then finally they would just give it up. Right now, you know, >> I think at one point the state many many years ago um the state was actually we had a fund and they would pay you >> uh when that license was sunshine like a
$10,000 just it just went away. >> Yeah. But we don't have many and you know there's they've somewhat loosened up defining what active means because if you're active and you're say you're going in a high-rise and you're starting the buildout that could take a couple years
>> that be can be considered active. >> Okay. >> But it has to show some progress, you know, similar to what we're looking for tonight to see what's what's the progress. Where are you, you know, it's just not dormant and just sitting there in your pockets. Got it. The difference with cannabis and liquor, that's an
actual license. >> Yes. >> This cannabis, it's not a license till everybody approves it and you open up. >> Yes, that's correct. >> The question is is once you open up, uh, and you want to sell, uh, we have to come up with, you know, new language
regarding that, you know. So, uh, any other ideas or any other things you want to discuss? Then I would suggest a motion to adjourn
and we go home early. >> Is there a motion? >> Motion. >> Second. >> All in favor say I. I. I. >> Oppose. So move. Thank you ladies and gentlemen for coming.