In a classic NIMBY move, an ostensibly timid but self-proclaimed progressive Princeton Township Council has caved to public pressure and punted on a decision to permit a local cannabis dispensary, according to a report by TAPinto Princeton, which covered a governing body meeting on Tuesday evening.
The decision comes despite overwhelming approval by Princeton voters to legalize adult-use, recreational marijuana in a 2020 referendum. Princeton approved the measure by a 75%-25% margin – about four percentage points higher than Mercer County and eight points higher than the statewide number.
“I am of the mind that let other towns do it before us and let’s see what happens. Let’s see what their challenges, or what works and what doesn’t work,” said Mayor Mark Freda. “There is no rush for this.”
Councilwoman Eve Niedergang, the liaison between the council and the local Cannabis Task Force and a supporter of a cannabis dispensary in town, led the charge to push the measure off.
“I continued to believe that Princeton should approve and regulate its own cannabis dispensary — one that is locally owned, focused on customer service and education, embraces equity and racial justice in ownership, hiring and promotions and is committed to being a vital part of this vibrant community,” Niedergang said.