So, readers have gotten to know Martin. But what about his views on the issues?
“I know many people know me as the councilman who is pushing cannabis on Tuckerton, but nothing could be further from the truth.
On June 20, Councilman Keith Vreeland suggested putting a referendum on the ballot in the general election to get residents’ opinions on a cannabis dispensary in town. On July 17, Vreeland moved a resolution with a clear ballot question.
“Shall the Borough of Tuckerton permit recreational cannabis operations and retail distribution within the Borough?” Vreeland read.
Vreeland motioned to adopt the referendum. Councilman Brian Martin voted “yes,” while remaining council members voted “no.” The resolution did not pass.
On June 20, Councilman Keith Vreeland opened Tuckerton Borough Council’s regular meeting with a cannabis proposition. Vreeland suggested council put cannabis dispensary licenses up to people’s vote.
“After much deliberation and research, I have decided the best route in deciding whether the Tuckerton borough should have any businesses related to cannabis is by allowing the residents to make the decision,” he said. “I recommend placing the question on the ballot for the Nov. 7 elections. I will only recommend allowing the vote for dispensary licenses.
Johnson went on to assert that the legalization of cannabis sales via regulated retail stores has been shown to reduce the prevalence of cannabis sales on the black market, thereby reducing crime and other public safety concerns. Furthermore, “by providing a safe, legal means for adults to purchase cannabis products, our store can reduce the demand for illegal drug dealers and decrease the risk of associated criminal activity.”
On March 6, recreational cannabis dominated a large part of public forum for Tuckerton borough’s third consecutive council meeting.
Environmental Committee Chair Kaylyn Ullman spoke on the subject, ultimately arguing that between job opportunities and revenue, cannabis could create a huge step forward for sustainability in Tuckerton, especially for younger families, and without having to sacrifice “what little woods we have left.”
Cannabis was a hot topic during Tuckerton’s Feb. 22 council meeting, with a seemingly equal amount of passion among residents both for and against having a dispensary placed in the borough.
Councilman Keith Vreeland spoke in regard to various emails sent in by residents concerned with the idea of the borough placing a potential cannabis dispensary at the site of the former Tuckerton Beach Grill.
Pine Beach resident Candace Johnson returned after initially introducing herself during the Dec. 19 council meeting, and making an appearance at the Jan. 19 land use board meeting to lobby in support of cannabis.
“I understand that the borough will be considering an ordinance over the next two meetings to opt in for cannabis, so I’m here tonight to voice my support for that ordinance, and to advocate for my company, Jersey Shore Extracts LLC, as the right group to bring a dispensary here in a responsible way.”
Submitted by njlegalizeme on Sun, 09/09/2018 - 21:31