The primary agenda item was the application by Friendly Greens LLC, seeking conditional use approval to convert the previous bank into a retail cannabis establishment. This move follows the township’s ordinance permitting three cannabis retailers, with Friendly Greens being the first to receive formal support from the council. The application plans to adapt the existing site infrastructure, which includes 18 parking spaces and four drive-thru lanes, to meet the new operational requirements. Civil engineer Brian Atkins presented the proposed changes, including restriping parking spaces, adding ADA-compliant spots, and maintaining the existing building footprint, while introducing electric vehicle spaces in compliance with state law.

Traffic circulation and parking were a focal point of the council’s discussions, with special attention given to the site’s drive-thru lanes and traffic flow. The plans to shift from a two-way to a one-way traffic model raised concerns among council members about potential impacts on traffic and parking. Proposals were made to extend two-way circulation to accommodate drive-thru access, and modifications were agreed upon to ensure compliance with local code. The council emphasized the need for clear traffic management to prevent congestion, especially given the site’s prior use as a bank.

The council scrutinized the proposed drive-thru setup, particularly the face-to-face interaction requirement. The use of video screens for customer verification at the drive-thru was likened to a pharmacy model, where customers interact with staff through live video. This setup spurred debate, with some council members questioning if it met the ordinance’s face-to-face interaction criteria. The necessity for two-way communication was underscored.

Security and compliance with state regulations were discussed, focusing on the cannabis supply chain, site security, and operational procedures. Friendly Greens outlined robust security measures, including continuous video monitoring, secure delivery processes, and RFID tracking of cannabis products from cultivation to sale. The council affirmed the need for comprehensive security plans, especially concerning emergency power provisions to ensure system functionality during outages.

Concerns about site accessibility for emergency vehicles were also raised, with discussions about the adequacy of the entryway canopy height for fire trucks. It was suggested that extending the curb could improve access, and further consultation with fire officials was deemed necessary.

Environmental considerations were addressed, with emphasis on stormwater management and landscaping. The applicant agreed to collaborate with township officials to enhance site aesthetics and ensure compliance with ADA and environmental regulations. The inclusion of native plants and removal of invasive species were recommended as part of the landscaping plan.

The council’s deliberations also touched on broader regulatory implications, particularly the separation of business licensing and zoning code requirements for cannabis facilities. Clarification was sought regarding compliance with both township ordinances and Cannabis Regulatory Commission mandates. The requirement for public signage to prohibit on-site consumption was highlighted.