The most notable item on the agenda was the deliberation over Ordinance 2540, which proposed amendments to the land use code to permit retail sales of cannabis products within designated zones. The public hearing attracted various community members who shared differing views on the potential impact of cannabis dispensaries in Englewood. Diane Jansen, a resident from Ward 2, District 4, expressed concerns about potential traffic problems and criminal activity near Jones Road and Route 4. She referenced a similar situation in Fort Lee, where a dispensary required continuous police presence due to traffic violations. Jansen urged the council to consider the safety implications for families in the area and suggested that placing cannabis retail locations outside the town center could exacerbate existing issues.

In contrast, Jason Arian, a Manhattan cannabis operator, presented a positive outlook on the introduction of cannabis dispensaries. He argued that well-managed cannabis stores could contribute to community growth and economic benefits, including generating tax revenue. Arian acknowledged that while communities initially resist cannabis operations due to fear, they eventually recognize the benefits, stating that a cannabis store “can actually build a community, can bring a lot of jobs.”

The discussion also included insights from Amy Sa, who raised concerns regarding the viability of the designated zoning areas for potential dispensary operations. She suggested that alternative locations should be considered to avoid conflicts with schools and other community spaces, noting the lack of suitable properties under the current guidelines.

The public hearing concluded with a motion to adopt Ordinance 2540. The police chief addressed the traffic concerns raised by Jansen, acknowledging their legitimacy but noting that dispensaries have not generated significant traffic issues in comparable areas. He stated that the average transaction time at dispensaries was about seven minutes, which minimizes potential traffic congestion. Additionally, he mentioned conversations with police chiefs from towns with dispensaries, which reported no associated crime increase due to state-mandated security measures. The chief reassured the council that dispensaries typically have their own security measures in place that do not burden local law enforcement.

Another discussion centered on Ordinance 2541, which amends the city code concerning cannabis. During the public hearing, Oscar Hernandez, a law enforcement veteran, advocated for situating cannabis retail in the city center rather than on Route 4. He argued that placing businesses in the heart of the city would provide more oversight and act as a crime deterrent. Hernandez pointed out that incidents of armed robbery occurred more frequently at gas stations along Route 4. He also emphasized that having cannabis businesses in the city center could stimulate additional local commerce.

Darne Cassinathan, co-founder of Joy Leaf Dispensary, shared insights from her experience operating a dispensary in Roselle, New Jersey. She emphasized the importance of community engagement and education in destigmatizing cannabis use, stating that people visit dispensaries for reasons such as sleep aid, medical conditions, relaxation, and recreation. Cassinathan invited council members to visit her dispensary to see firsthand how they approach customer interactions and safety.

The council members engaged in further discussions about the potential crime implications of cannabis retail. The council president noted that they had conducted extensive research and spoken with police chiefs from other communities who reported no increase in crime associated with cannabis businesses. The president referenced provisions in the ordinance, such as the requirement for video surveillance and armed security at dispensaries, as measures to protect residents. The council president expressed a personal stance against cannabis retail if it were believed to increase crime, reiterating the intention to proceed cautiously and evaluate how cannabis legalization would impact the community initially.

Aside from cannabis discussions, the council unanimously passed a resolution congratulating Congregation Avatara on its 130th anniversary, acknowledging its contributions to the city and its role in fostering Jewish education through institutions like Mariah School. Personal anecdotes were shared.

The council also took the opportunity to recognize volunteer coaches working with youth sports programs, acknowledging their contributions to developing young people’s physical, social, and emotional skills. Awards were presented to coaches from various sports categories, including softball, baseball, soccer, hockey, and Little League.

Ken Katz was honored for his efforts in organizing a blind hockey tournament at the local rink.