The most notable issue of the meeting arose during the renewal application discussion for Garden Greens LLC. Brian Markey, representing Garden Greens, faced significant opposition from the board due to numerous complaints about the establishment. A commissioner voiced concerns about an employee named Frank, who allegedly engaged in discriminatory behavior towards another business on the Plaza. The commissioner highlighted videos documenting these incidents, which reportedly featured derogatory language and threatening behavior. Claimants argued that the business failed to uphold the socially responsible approach promised during their initial application process, recounting instances of harassment involving Frank, who was seen harassing individuals while wearing Garden Greens merchandise.

In response to these allegations, Markey requested a postponement to consult with legal counsel, asserting his unawareness of the videos presented as evidence. The board agreed to adjourn the matter, allowing Markey time to seek legal representation and review the materials, postponing the decision on the renewal application.

Following the discussion surrounding Garden Greens, the board swiftly moved to approve the application for JC Element. The applicant expressed relief at reaching the final review stage after a prolonged process.

Another topic of the meeting was the application for a cannabis retail facility on Martin Luther King Drive, presented by Councilman Jermaine Robinson. Robinson detailed his deep-rooted connections to Jersey City and his vision for the cannabis business named Earth, describing it as a service-based establishment aimed at providing “unlimited healing through herbs.” Despite not being a frequent cannabis user himself, Robinson articulated his belief in the healing properties of cannabis and highlighted the necessity of such businesses in the Greenville area.

Robinson’s application received support from the board, with members expressing confidence in his ability to operate the business effectively and responsibly. The motion to approve the application for Earth was passed unanimously.

The meeting also delved into the complex application process for Locomotive, a cannabis business that faced legal and procedural challenges. The board addressed a lawsuit filed by a competing applicant, which had resulted in a court remand. The board clarified that the municipal council’s resolution of support for Locomotive had not been vacated. Chelsea Duffy, the CEO and co-founder of Locomotive, provided testimony highlighting her long-standing ties to Jersey City and her commitment to local activism. She emphasized Locomotive’s community impact initiatives, including partnerships with local nonprofits and various programs aimed at supporting women and children in Jersey City.

Despite Duffy’s detailed testimony, the board raised concerns about Locomotive’s engagement with the Special Improvement District (SID) and the lack of documented support from the organization. The opposing counsel questioned Duffy’s credibility and the absence of written evidence from the SID, leading to a confrontational exchange. Duffy maintained that the absence of written support did not negate Locomotive’s efforts to establish relationships.

The board also heard from witnesses supporting Locomotive’s application, including Panda Glover, the founder and executive director of a nonprofit organization named SAF, and AO LaBoria, the founder of the Flow Initiative. Both witnesses highlighted the impactful programs developed in collaboration with Locomotive and expressed strong support for the business’s approval. They confirmed having no financial interest in Locomotive.

Matt Simuka, another witness, testified about his background and the challenges faced in operating a cannabis business. He addressed ongoing structural issues with the intended building for operation and confirmed the submission of necessary lease documentation to the Cannabis Control Board, which led to the issuance of an annual license for Locomotive.

The board’s discussion revealed a division among members regarding the merits of Locomotive’s application. Concerns were raised about the applicant’s engagement with the community and transparency of their operations. Despite the applicant’s charitable initiatives, the board emphasized the need for community support and fulfillment of regulatory requirements.