At issue is the zoning ordinance that disallows a cannabis business from operating within 1,000 feet of a public park.
Marchetti, reading from a prepared statement said, “We are here asking for a consideration on the zoning for a proposed (cannabis) dispensary. We did apply to use this location as a dispensary but was denied by zoning. The reason for this is there is a playground in Marine Park within 1,000 feet.
Based on the original cannabis zoning map released in mid-2021, we were in the (approved), zone. The playground was not a deterrent. That is why we signed (our) current lease with plans to open a CBD-cigar store and eventually convert to a dispensary, after we obtained (State license requirements).
A revised map came out later in September 2021, including Marine Park, showing we were now out of the zone. We looked at properties on W. Front and West Streets…, but are now getting word that the (Red Bank) Charter School is within a 1,000 feet, and all those areas are now zoned out as well.”
Red Bank Scarlett Reserve Room co-owner John Marchetti noted that with their NJ State approved license, they are now, “On the clock, meaning we have 120 days to get a location approved by Red Bank, convert the license from conditional to annual and open to operate. However, there is no real estate left in the current zones.”