Kash 6686 LLC’s application to the Cannabis Regulatory Commission for a class 2 cannabis manufacturer license and/or a class 5 retail license was a point of discussion. A company representative presented plans for a cannabis dispensary and manufacturing facility on Young’s Road, emphasizing security and compliance with regulations. Council members inquired about the project’s compatibility with local ordinances and its community impact, including employment opportunities for residents. In a related matter, the council approved a resolution authorizing a testing laboratory permit to Green Analytics East LLC and passed another resolution authorizing a manufacturing license to Sun Extractions, with the owner providing an update on their facility’s progress.

The overcrowded condition at the local animal shelter was a recurring topic, with the council acknowledging the need for additional cages, funding for food, and the hiring of an intern to explore alternate housing options and review fostering applications. Another animal behavioralist is to be brought in to assist with animal evaluations and training. The council discussed efforts to encourage adoptions, including the elimination of adoption fees and addressing logistical challenges in the adoption process for animals housed in alternate locations.

The public praised the council’s consideration of electric vehicles and asked about charging stations. The council confirmed that new vehicles would come with charging stations and that there are plans to implement charging infrastructure in the new Municipal complex, along with grid batteries or battery storage and the integration of solar energy to transition to a 100% electric vehicle fleet.

Affordable housing was addressed when a resident inquired about the cost and eligibility criteria for new homes. Council clarified that pricing details were unavailable as homes were not yet built and that income limits would vary based on household size and regional median income. The complexities of affordable housing criteria were highlighted during this discussion.

Public comments raised concerns about various township issues, including the need for maintenance along a canal between Lita Street and Mary Street, requests for additional lighting on Asan Pink Boulevard for safety, and sidewalk and road repairs. The council acknowledged these concerns and committed to further investigation.

Other discussions included the repeal and establishment of handicap parking spaces, stormwater control regulations, and the tabling of a land development ordinance to the next meeting. The council referred proposed amendments to the land use legislation to the Planning Board for review.

Residents expressed frustration about a lack of lighting on AET Pink Boulevard, traffic congestion on Hamilton Avenue due to a new traffic light, and the maintenance of abandoned properties. The council explained their responsibilities and procedures for maintaining such properties. The meeting also debated a new policy at the animal shelter that prohibits drop-offs, with concerns raised about its impact on animal abandonment in the township.

The discussion on dog adoptions and control highlighted issues with dogs from Trenton contributing to overcrowding in Hamilton shelters. The effectiveness of free adoptions in mitigating this problem was debated among the council members.

Additionally, the council considered a potential investigation into a property sale, with a focus on environmental remediation and redevelopment opportunities.