One notable issue was the detailed proposals from two cannabis companies—Sweet Spot River Edge LLC and Neighborhood Greens. Both companies outlined their plans to open a dispensary in River Edge, each bringing forward a distinct approach to community integration and operational execution.

Sweet Spot River Edge LLC emphasized their track record in the cannabis industry, focusing on creating a tailored experience for customers seeking milder cannabis products. They presented comprehensive security measures, including a video tour of an existing location, to illustrate their commitment to safe and regulated operations. The presentation covered the company’s experience in other states, customer service strategies, and mitigation of potential issues such as odor and traffic impact. Representatives also assured the council of their readiness to launch the proposed plan, citing secured funding and completed building permit plans for the River Edge location.

In addition, the company detailed its store design, security features, and customer transaction procedures. They also addressed their role in the local economy, projecting tax revenues and expressing their intention to contribute to the community fund and the public library. A traffic engineer associated with Sweet Spot River Edge LLC addressed the council’s concerns about increased traffic, explaining how the site’s circulation pattern and parking management, along with assistance from off-duty police officers, would mitigate congestion.

On the other hand, Neighborhood Greens offered a forward-thinking dispensary model, focusing on their team’s experience in highly regulated industries and a commitment to employee welfare and community engagement. Their presentation included detailed floor plans showing security measures, management of traffic flow, and congestion minimization strategies. Neighborhood Greens’ representatives addressed their willingness to collaborate with local law enforcement and meet safety and security standards.

Their “Good Neighbor policy” aimed to ensure customer respectfulness and active participation in social progress, with a focus on cannabis education and community engagement. Neighborhood Greens planned to support Medicaid patients and reinvest profits into local organizations. However, council members raised questions about their lack of direct dispensary experience, their business focus on medical versus recreational marijuana, and the specifics of their property arrangements.

Aside from the cannabis proposals, the council tackled the issue of nonresident parking at the River Edge Road train station. Based on a recommendation from the police department, the council considered allowing approximately 15 nonresident vehicles to park in the lot, prioritizing residents. The discussion on potential revenue and fee structures for nonresident parking permits led to an agreement to have the borough administrator draft an ordinance and fee structure for council review.

Additionally, the council looked into an ordinance concerning the borough’s review of retail food establishments, prompted by a county-mandated revaluation of all residential and commercial property. The proposed emergency appropriation ordinance would finance the revaluation’s initial payment.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, after thanking participants for their thorough presentations and discussing the ordinance amending the borough’s site plan review and zoning, which is scheduled for a public hearing.