Mayor Blasts Council Leadership for Pulling Resolutions to Redevelop Roebling Block II and Authorize Cannabis License Applications
Mayor Blasts Council Leadership for Pulling Resolutions to Redevelop Roebling Block II and Authorize Cannabis License Applications
Trenton, N.J. – Mayor W. Reed Gusciora today criticized Council Leadership for pulling two crucial administrative proposals that would allow cannabis businesses to apply for licensure with the state and advance redevelopment of the Roebling II site.
“Yesterday, during docket review, Council President Kathy McBride arbitrarily tabled two resolutions that are instrumental to Trenton’s local economy,” said Mayor Gusciora. “The first was a resolution giving a Cannabis business that wants to operate in Trenton the necessary greenlight to apply for a state license. The second would establish an evaluation process for developers interested in the long-vacant Roebling II site.”
In August, City Council overwhelmingly passed an ordinance allowing cannabis businesses to operate in Trenton after hearing extensive testimony on the tremendous potential cannabis has for local businesses and residents.
“Unfortunately, all of that public support has been rendered moot because of Council Leadership’s absurd control over the agenda on city business,” said Mayor Gusciora. “That control was abused yet again when Council Leadership tabled a resolution outlining a redevelopment evaluation process for Roebling II. They would rather see the loss of jobs and economic opportunity for Trenton residents than a win for this Administration.”
Gusciora said Council was notified of the developers’ interest in September, yet Council Leadership has refused to return calls or accept presentations on either of the two proposals to turn Roebling II into mixed-use residential units with a public square for arts and entertainment.
“The people deserve to be assured that promising redevelopment proposals are given due consideration and not simply ignored,” continued Mayor Gusciora. “Both proposals deserve to be considered by the full body and not tabled in the dead of night away from the watchful eye of the public.”
“I’m concerned that Council will squander the unique opportunity cannabis brings to Trenton,” said Mayor Gusciora. “In addition, I know Trenton residents are sick and tired of driving or walking by the desolate Roebling II, a site that could be so much more. If residents feel the way we do, they should contact their Council representatives and ask them to reconsider Council Leadership’s obstructionist behavior. One person should not be able to stop the collective efforts of so many who genuinely want to move Trenton forward.”
