Upper Township Upper Township has unveiled a plan to open its first cannabis dispensary, a move aimed at generating revenue for beach repairs. The proposal would see 33% of the store’s tax revenue earmarked for a special beach replenishment fund, while the remainder would support recreation and general municipal expenses.
At a Glance
- First cannabis dispensary proposed in Upper Township.
- 33% of tax revenue to fund beach replenishment.
- Final vote scheduled for February.
- Six months expected before the dispensary opens.
- Nearby Ocean City expresses concerns over traffic and community values.
The idea emerged after Upper Township officials joined a group of Jersey Shore towns on a trip to Washington, D.C., to lobby for federal beach protection dollars. The town’s administrator, James Van Zlike, emphasized the need for additional revenue streams, noting that beach replenishment costs are astronomical.
Background
The proposed store would be located on Roosevelt Boulevard east of the Garden State Parkway, a busy route that leads to the town’s Strathmere beach section. Mayor Curtis Corson, Jr. said the town would not block the dispensary but would instead “embrace it, tax it, and use it to our advantage.”
Van Zlike highlighted the site’s traffic patterns, stating that the area sees a mix of local and tourism traffic, making it a suitable location for the store. The town’s plan is to allocate 33% of the tax revenue from the cannabis store for beach replenishment, with the remaining funds directed toward recreation and general municipal expenses.
Community Response
While Upper Township officials view the proposal as a pragmatic solution, residents of nearby Ocean City have voiced concerns. Mary Louise of Ocean City warned that the store would not be limited to Upper Township and that people would likely travel to the area for cannabis use, describing the prospect as “not pretty.”
In a statement to News Of Philadelphia, Ocean City’s mayor reiterated the town’s respect for neighboring communities’ decisions but maintained that allowing cannabis businesses in Ocean City contradicts the values that have defined the town for generations. “It’s already there. Not going to make a difference,” said Corson.
Economic Impact
The dispensary’s revenue strategy is designed to create a sustainable funding stream for beach maintenance. According to Van Zlike, the town’s participation in the D.C. trip was a proactive measure to generate revenue that can be protected, earmarked, and allocated to future beach replenishment.
The plan also includes a broader vision for the town’s economic development. By leveraging the dispensary’s tax revenue, Upper Township aims to balance the needs of its residents with the demands of tourism and environmental stewardship.
Next Steps
A second and final vote on the cannabis store is set for February. Officials have indicated that, even if approved, it would take at least six months before a dispensary is up and running.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Current | Proposal presented to town council |
| February | Final vote on dispensary approval |
| Six months after approval | Dispensary expected to open |
The outcome of the February vote will determine whether Upper Township can begin collecting the earmarked funds for beach replenishment. Residents and stakeholders alike will be watching closely as the town balances economic opportunity with community values.
Key Takeaways
- Upper Township’s first cannabis dispensary could provide a significant revenue source for beach repairs.
- 33% of tax revenue is earmarked for a beach replenishment fund.
- Final approval hinges on a February vote; opening expected after six months.
- Ocean City residents express concerns about traffic and community character.
The town’s decision reflects a broader trend of municipalities exploring alternative revenue streams to address infrastructure and environmental challenges.
