The Raritan town meeting turned into a public forum July 26 as residents and council debated over, and eventually approved, two ordinances that would make the sale of medical cannabis legal in Raritan, which could pave the road for a cultivation center to be established in the town.
The first ordinance permits medical marijuana alternative treatment centers as a conditional use, whereas the second prohibits its sale, referencing Town Ordinance 207-73, which prohibits using something not specifically allowed.
“Cultivation centers isn’t something that just necessarily scares me just by saying the word over and over again,” said councilman Pablo Orozco, “I’m satisfied with the way they run business, I’m satisfied with their security, it’s not a concern of mine.”
It was councilman Michael Patente who seemed the most concerned, as he said he needed several things clarified before agreeing with any motions. At the last meeting, Patente asked as to the timeline for towns to “opt out” of permitting any cannabis related business.