In a recent Morristown town council meeting, significant discussions centered around the potential revocation of Ooma Flowers' cannabis retail license, a matter that has sparked considerable debate among local stakeholders. The council is considering Resolution R1072024, which would deny the renewal of Ooma Flowers' license based on a report from the Cannabis Advisory Board (CAB) that has not been made public.
Frank Cottolo, representing Ooma Flowers, argued that the company has not been given the opportunity to review the CAB's report or understand the grounds for the proposed revocation. He emphasized that the advisory board's meeting, which led to the report, was not public, and neither Ooma nor the community was notified of its occurrence. Cottolo pointed out that Ooma Flowers has complied with all local regulations and has invested millions into the project, which is currently under construction.
Todd Volkberg, the property owner of the site designated for Ooma Flowers, echoed Cottolo's sentiments, stating that the project has been a collaborative effort with the town and that the location is ideal for a cannabis dispensary. He highlighted the extensive efforts made to navigate the complex approval process and urged the council to reconsider the resolution, suggesting that conditions could be placed on the license renewal instead of outright revocation.
Legal representatives for Ooma Flowers also voiced their concerns, arguing that the council's actions could undermine due process and that the project is progressing as expected despite the challenges faced. They noted that the cannabis regulatory framework has been adjusted to accommodate the complexities of local approvals, and starting anew with a different applicant would only delay the establishment of cannabis retail in Morristown.
The meeting also featured Priyanka Patel, the founder of Ooma Flowers, who passionately defended her company against allegations of financial instability and political influence. Patel asserted that her family has invested significantly in the project and that they are committed to completing it. She questioned the rationale behind the council's consideration of revocation after having issued building permits just weeks prior.
As the council deliberates on this resolution, the outcome could have lasting implications for the cannabis industry in Morristown, as well as for the local economy and community relations. The council is expected to continue discussions and may revisit the resolution in future meetings, as stakeholders seek clarity and a resolution that supports the ongoing development of Ooma Flowers.