Elmwood Park council approves ordinance limiting certain cannabis licenses after split debate

Elmwood Park— The boroughcouncil on Aug. 21 adopted ordinance 25-21, an amendment to the boroughcode that updates licensing and business regulations (chapter 4) and clarifies provisions in chapter 8 on cannabis facilities, including delivery services.

Council debate centered on whether reducing the number and types of cannabis licenses would harm borough revenue at a time of rising taxes or protect existing local businesses from overcompetition. "I will be voting no on this ordinance, at a time where we are facing two years of double-digit tax increases," said Councilman Fasolo. "Cutting licenses down the board, no matter what type of cannabis business it is, is the wrong move."

Councilman Golubek echoed concerns that now is not the time to limit revenue sources, saying the borough should not "limit ourselves with bringing money in" while facing fiscal pressure. Councilman Sampson and others argued that limiting certain licenses could prevent additional clustering and protect existing local operators.

Council members also clarified that the ordinance affects multiple license categories beyond retail, including cultivation and manufacturing. "It's not just retail licensing," one council member said, noting the local tax benefits tied to nonretail operations.

On roll call the ordinance passed. The meeting record shows two members voting no and the remainder voting yes; the presiding officer declared the motion carried.

The council did not receive public comment on this ordinance during the hearing. Council members and staff did not specify an effective date at the meeting; implementation will follow the boroughclerkofficeprocedures for ordinance adoption.