During a recent city council meeting in Trenton, local business owner and cannabis retailer expressed deep concerns regarding the challenges faced by legal cannabis businesses in the area. The owner, who operates at 28 South Warren Street, reported having to lay off all employees within just 30 days of opening due to an inability to compete with unregulated shops selling cannabis at lower prices. They emphasized the risks associated with untested cannabis products available in the market, urging the council to take immediate action to address these safety concerns.

In a separate discussion, resident Edwin Botchway raised issues related to the city’s budget, which is currently over by $12 million. He proposed the establishment of a land bank to manage vacant and uninhabitable properties owned by the city. Botchway highlighted successful examples from cities like Detroit and Newark, where land banks have revitalized neighborhoods and improved housing availability. He argued that a streamlined process for acquiring these properties could enhance community appeal and encourage new residents to move to Trenton, ultimately benefiting the local economy.

Both discussions underscored the urgent need for the city council to address economic challenges and improve community safety and housing conditions in Trenton.