The primary focus of the meeting was Jersey Grown LLC’s application to expand its cannabis operation on Brandon Avenue. The company, holding both municipal and state licenses valid until 2025 and 2026 respectively, sought approval to extend its activities from a single warehouse unit to encompass three 5,000-square-foot buildings on the site. This expansion would increase their flowering canopy from 600 to 2,500 square feet without any structural modifications. The applicant’s attorney emphasized the need for a security gate at the driveway entrance, which would enhance safety while ensuring emergency access.

The board engaged in a thorough discussion about the application, particularly the necessity of revisiting the conditional use approval despite existing zoning compliance. Questions were raised about the redundancy of the board’s involvement given the prior approvals for cannabis operations in the industrial zone. However, the attorney clarified that the expansion necessitated a renewed conditional use review due to the increase in operational scope. Board members debated the procedural requirements but ultimately acknowledged the importance of maintaining regulatory consistency. The proposal was approved unanimously.

Security concerns were also addressed, with the applicant confirming that indoor operations minimized public access, thus reducing the need for extensive security measures. The proposed security gate, an eight-foot tall commercial-grade barrier, was discussed in detail, including the incorporation of a Knox box for emergency services. The board agreed on the placement of the gate to facilitate safe access for fire and emergency vehicles, emphasizing the balance between security and accessibility.

Parallel to the cannabis expansion, the board reviewed Ordinance 18 2025, which aligns with the master plan’s goals for sustainable development through a solar project on a city-owned landfill. The site, approximately 9.82 acres, is earmarked for community solar initiatives intended to offer residents reduced electricity rates. The project involves leasing the land to a developer who would cap the landfill and install solar panels, with a completion target by the end of 2026 to secure funding. The board considered the financial and environmental benefits, noting potential tax revenue despite the land’s non-ownership status post-redevelopment.

Board members discussed specifics such as the absence of detailed site maps and the strategic placement of solar arrays, which will adhere to a maximum height and coverage to ensure operational efficiency. The urgency of advancing the project was underscored by the looming deadline for funding allocation, prompting the board to resolve in favor of supporting the ordinance, which will be forwarded to the city council for further action.

Additional topics included redevelopment proposals for Egg Harbor City North, the success of community events, and a forthcoming memorial dedication. Concerns about unregulated business activity at the Penrook building were raised, prompting a commitment to investigate potential compliance issues.