Hoboken For Responsible Cannabis Update - November 18, 2022
The letter below was sent out to the Hoboken for Responsible Cannabis email list on November 18, 2022.
Dear Neighbors,
Many of you may already know that a corporate non-profit, Hoboken for Responsible Cannabis, Inc. (HRC) was established in October in an effort to consolidate advocacy efforts and provide a platform to communicate and respond to decisions made by Hoboken’s current administration regarding the implementation of cannabis dispensaries in our city. In the past month, HRC is pleased to announce numerous administrative accomplishments. We have become incorporated, established trustees and officers, approved our bylaws, initiated website development, and created a fundraising platform. Operatively, here are some updates.
Blue Violets (628 Washington Street)
HRC responded to the Blue Violets approval with a lawsuit against Blue Violets and the Hoboken Planning Board. HRC is waiting for the defendants to respond to the claim, after which a court date will be determined. We expect this to be in the spring/early summer timeframe, and we are confident that we have a strong case.
Story (51-53 14th Street)
The Story Dispensary application is going to the City Council for a final vote date TBD. After a grueling series of Planning Board meetings, the Planning Board voted unanimously in favor of Story. In the final Planning Board meeting, it was revealed that a new LLC was added to the Story business structure which was never disclosed to the CRB, Planning Board or City Council. In fact, the CRB might not have approved the applicant given its new structure which might violate NJ Cannabis Regulations and local ordinances. HRC responded by sending a letter to the CRB and City Council asking for a full investigation before a final vote at the City Council.
Going Forward
Many people have reached out asking how they can help. First, the HRC is looking for volunteers to sit on an advisory committee. There are decisions that need to be vetted and made with a diverse set of residents. This should not require a lot of time with meetings on an “as-needed” basis. If you are interested email info@hobrc.org.
Second, we need to raise money for our initiatives. HRC has had some generous financial support to launch the Blue Violets litigation but needs additional funds to get it to the finish line. We have been considering many options for Story if it is approved, but to date, the 51-53 14th Street Condo Association has been dealing with the brunt of the emotional and financial stress that has come with fighting Story Dispensary. As their neighbors, HRC would like to support them. Please consider making a donation (button below). Any amount will make a difference. If you would prefer to write a check (no processing fees), email info@hobrc.org.
Finally, we are working on a website that will streamline the communication process and consolidate contacts. You will be able to subscribe/unsubscribe to alerts, make donations, get updates all from one spot. It’s work in progress and we’ll keep you updated.
Have a joyful Thanksgiving holiday.
HRC
