West New York accepts grant for Miller Park improvements

December 19, 2022

12wnyboc29 — Work is ongoing at Miller Park as the town refurbishes the park. Image via Google Maps circa July of 2022.

West New York has appropriated millions in grants funding for various capital projects around town, from electric vehicles to park improvements, following receipt of some $2.5 million in grants from the county, state, and federal governments.

Mayor Gabriel Rodriguez and the West New York Board of Commissioners adopted an ordinance that appropriates the grant funding at its December 14 meeting. The money includes $187,084 for power lift stretcher systems, $468,387 for Miller Park improvements, and $1,920,198 for electric shuttle buses and garbage trucks.

The four power lift stretcher systems, including the training and installation, would be financed by a $170,076 Fiscal Year 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The ordinance states that the remaining $17,007 comes from the Town’s Capital Improvement Fund.

Planned improvements to Miller Park

The $468,387 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from Hudson County would be appropriated for improvements to Miller Park and including all work and materials necessary, according to the ordinance. Miller Park is on Jackson Street, between 57th Street and 59th Street in town. The park is just across the street from the landmark Miller Stadium.

These are the latest funds going toward the massive overhaul to the park, which broke ground in September. This money is in addition to other federal, state, and local sources including but not limited to: the town’s federal COVID-19 relief funds, federal CDBG funds, and the Hudson County Open Space Trust Fund, as well as an ordinance adopted by the Board of Commissioners bonding millions for the park improvements.

The new park will have significant improvements to the playground, basketball court, and open passive areas with benches and walking paths for use by seniors, according to the town. The new playground will also provide the community with areas specifically tailored for children with special needs, and will be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant.

Some of the other features of the park will include a community garden, a new mini soccer field, a dog park, new basketball courts, security cameras, safe lighting, and landscaping, among other improvements. The planned upgrades were presented to the board at the beginning of the year in January, during the Capital Plan Midterm Review for capital projects by Special Projects Manager Jonathan Castañeda.

The park is closed until the renovations are completed. While the project was initially estimated to be completed in September, it started in September instead and it is not clear when exactly construction will finish in mid-2023 and the park will reopen.

Rep. Albio Sires, who is retiring from Congress and running for mayor of the town in 2023 (Rodriguez will run for state Assembly) touted the park project as teamwork between himself, the board and the town, and all involved entities. He said work will continue on other town parks to bring them up to snuff.

Lastly, the $1,920,198 grant from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection from the national Volkswagen settlement fund would be appropriated for the acquisition of two electric shuttle buses and two electric garbage trucks including related charging equipment and all work and materials necessary.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

North Bergen mulls salary range increases for various township positions

Hudson Reporter

December 18, 2022

12nbsalary22 — North Bergen Town Hall at 4233 Kennedy Boulevard. Photo courtesy of the township.

North Bergen is thinking about raising the salary ranges for a number of municipal employees.

Mayor Nicholas Sacco and the Board of Commissioners voted to introduce an ordinance doing so at its December 7 meeting. The move follows similar increases for a number of other positions in 2021.

The ordinance would amend, mostly raising, salary ranges in each of three schedules. The salary ranges are broken down into schedules, with Schedule A for competitive, Schedule B for non-competitive, and Schedule C for unclassified.

In salary Schedule A, the new salary ranges include: from $50,000 to $136,000 for Assistant Fiscal Officer; $21,000 to $40,000 for Building Inspector; $90,000 to $161,000 for Director of Community Improvements; $7,000 to $25,000 for part-time Electrical Inspector; $3,000 to $40,000 for Fire Official; $30,000 to $73,000 for Mechanic; $50,000 to $127,000 for Municipal Court Administrator; and $11,000 to $54,000 for Public Safety Telecommunication.

In 2021, salary ranges were previously increased for: Assistant Fiscal Officer from $50,000 to $130,000; Director of Community Improvements ranging from $90,000 to $150,000; Municipal Court Administrator ranging from $50,000 to $122,000;

Under Schedule B, the new salary ranges include: $8,000 to $94,000 for Keyboarding Clerk; $8,000 to $75,000 for Laborer; $5,000 to $73,000 for Mechanic’s Helper; and $20,000 to $45,000 for Security Guard.

Lastly, for Schedule C, the new salary ranges include: $12 to $20 per hour for Counselors; $15,000 to $58,000 for Fire and Police Surgeons; $90,000 to $250,000 for a Municipal Administrator; $40,000 to $125,000 for Municipal Township Clerk; and $20,000 to $138,000 for Tax Collector and Tax Search Officer.

In 2021, salary ranges for Schedule C were previously increased for: Municipal Administrator ranging from $90,000 to $231,000; Municipal Clerk ranging from $40,000 to $116,000; and Tax Collector and Tax Search Officer ranging from $20,000 to $131,000.

The ordinance will be up for a public hearing and vote at its next meeting on December 21 at 11 a.m. in the municipal chambers at Town Hall at 4233 Kennedy Boulevard. For more information, go to northbergen.org.

Township Attorney Tom Kobin explained, in response to Sacco, that the salary ranges are expected to be changed as often as the township needs to. He said the ranges are adjusted to be good for a few years, but can be changed whenever the board desires.

Sacco recalled a story of a former employee who misinterpreted a similar ordinance in the past. He said they thought it was salary increases, not range increases, and resigned out of misplaced anger.

“Someone resigned because they saw the salary range and thought everyone was going up,” Sacco said. “They thought that they were only getting a three percent raise and everyone was getting more. So he resigned and left. I said to him, they’re not getting more, they’re getting the same three percent you’re getting, it’s just the range.”

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

Rent control extended in Bayonne

Hudson Reporter

December 15, 2022

12bayrent22 — Newer apartments built in Bayonne after 2011, like these pictured here, are not rent-controlled. Photo by Daniel Israel.

Bayonne has extended rent control of certain units for another year.

The City Council adopted an ordinance at its December meeting extending rent control from Jan. 1, 2023 to Dec. 31, 2023.

Rent control watered down by council in 2011

Rent control limits increases to the cost of living increase each year, usually a few percent, and imposes other rules on rents and rent hikes in the city. The city is required to renew its existing rent control ordinance yearly, or else it will expire.

The protections for tenants were first enacted via an ordinance in Bayonne in 1972. In 2011, the City Council adopted another ordinance continuing the protections for tenants legally occupying rent-controlled apartments at the time, but no longer extending those protections to new tenants or new units. It had been contemplating the move throughout the year.

In July 2011, the council introduced an ordinance that would eliminate rent control on an apartment on which landlords made certain improvements. However, the council ultimately withdrew it, then replaced it with one that eliminated rent control on an apartment if the current tenant moves out, which was adopted in November 2011.

City Council members at the time said that the change was needed in order to encourage landlords to upgrade an aging and deteriorating stock of apartments. Under the ordinance, then-City Attorney Charles D’Amico said apartments would lose their rent control status only once the current residents move out.

Recapping recent rent control history in Bayonne

Residents of rent controlled apartments came out in protest against the ordinance. But City Council members at the time said the ordinance was a good compromise, stating that this was allowing landlords to get out from under the burdens imposed by rent control, yet protecting residents who still live there.

However, the adopted ordinance resulted in outcry by those residents, who had the changes under the ordinance put on hold and a measure to completely reinstate rent control successfully put on the 2012 ballot for the November election after gathering enough signatures.

Despite their efforts, that ballot referendum ultimately failed by a margin of 57 to 43 percent. Regardless, supporters of rent control, particularly the Bayonne Tenants’ Association, vowed to continue the fight.

In 2014, the supporters of rent control again sought to bring back full protections for tenants. The issue was successfully added to the ballot that November, but again failed to pass by roughly the same margin of 57 to 43.

Extending protections for tenants in the same units since pre-2011

While opponents to the 2011 changes to rent control were still adamantly against them, since then, it does not appear that there has been much movement on that front. City officials confirmed that there were no changes in the 2022 ordinance from recent years past.

After the December meeting, City Council President Gary La Pelusa explained the gist of the ordinance. He confirmed rent control was being extended for those who already lived in rent-controlled units prior to the 2011 changes.

“It’s extending it,” La Pelusa told the Bayonne Community News of the 2022 ordinance. “We have rent control. They did decommission it several years ago, but it’s still intact. So the apartments that have rent control, it’s extended.”

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

Secaucus approves changes to Hops Lane parking rules

Hudson Reporter

December 14, 2022

12seccouncil22 — A view heading westbound on Hops Lane in Secaucus. Image via Google Maps.

Secaucus has amended where parking is prohibited on Hops Lane.

Mayor Michael Gonnelli and the Town Council adopted an ordinance at its Tuesday, December 13 meeting after it was introduced in November.

The council previously enacted measures to alleviate dangerous situations on the town’s streets, promote safe passage for motorists and vehicles, to address traffic flow, and specify penalties for violations.

Upon review and recommendation of the Police Department, the mayor and council have determined that changes to the ordinance are warranted on Hops Lane to accommodate the parking and traffic needs of the area.

On the south side of Hops Lane, parking is currently prohibited along the entire length. Now, it is only prohibited from Schmidt’s Place to Paterson Plank Road.

On the north side of Hops Lane, parking is currently not prohibited. Under the ordinance, it would be prohibited on that side of the road from Stonewall Lane to Schmidt’s Place.

After the meeting, Town Administrator Gary Jeffas explained the gist of the changes to the parking rules for Hops Lane to the Hudson Reporter. He said that not only were there problems on the street with buses getting through when cars are parked on both sides of the street, but there was also a fence on one side of Hops Lane that made parking there difficult.

“When the police analyzed it, there’s a fence on one side. When you park by the curb, you really couldn’t open the car door to get out. It was difficult, so they just looked at it because there were a couple of residents asking for it. So they just varied the parking to the other side of the street so that it’s more passable and more usable for the public.”

Recommended after police traffic study

Prior to the ordinance being introduced and adopted, the Police Department Traffic Bureau conducted a traffic study to evaluate the parking in the area of Hops Lane. The one-way road begins at Stonewall Lane and heads west to Paterson Plank Road.

While the current ordinance prohibits parking on the south side of the entire length of Hops Lane, the study found that vehicles regularly park there anyway, specifically between Stonewall Lane and Schmidt’s Place. The study was largely in response to an incident caused when a large pickup with an attached trailer was parked on the south side of Hops Lane, directly in front of a home, and another vehicle was parked on the north side of Hops Lane, between Floral Terrace and Poplar Street.

The vehicles being parked on both sides of the street restricted the travel lane rendering it impassable for large vehicles. Specifically impacted were school buses which were forced to re-route during school transit hours.

The investigation by the Police Department found there were no signs delineating that there was no parking on either side of the street, which is why residents likely parked there in violation.

There are five houses on Hops Lane, with three located between Stonewall Lane and Schmidt’s Place. All three of those houses are on the south side of Hops Lane, and the remaining two homes are on the north side of Hops Lane between Schmidt’s Place and Paterson Plank Road, which the study identified as the likely reason that parking shifts to the north side of the street in that area.

The study ultimately found that the violation of the town’s ordinance has gone unenforced for too longer and beginning to enforce it now would create safety concerns and too great of an impact on the public.

According to the study, changing the ordinance to prohibit parking on the north side of the street instead of the south, except for the portion on Hops Lane between Schmidt’s Place and Paterson Plank Road, would be the best solution. In the wake of that conclusion in the study, the council embraced that exact recommendation from the Police Department.

Following the change, signs will be placed between Stonewall Lane and Schmidt’s Place on the north side of the street, and between Schmidt’s Place and Paterson Plank Road on the south side of the street. Once the parking signs are in place, regular enforcement of the area will be conducted.

Two streets added to residential parking Zone II

Also at its December 13 meeting, the Town Council adopted an ordinance after it was introduced in November adding two streets to its residential parking program, which divides the town into four zones. Farm Road, the entire length and the public lot, and the entire length of Riedel Court were added into Zone II.

“That ordinance added them into the residential parking program because there were some issues with parking in those areas,” Jeffas said. “So that just made sure that it’s noted for residential parking.”

The moves come amid a number of other parking-related changes in town, such as the recent adjustment of certain streets from one zone to another.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

Woman fatally struck by tractor trailer on Tonnelle Avenue

Hudson Reporter

December 12, 2022

12nbstruck22 — The unidentified woman was struck near the intersection of Tonnelle Avenue and 91st Street. Image via Google Maps.

The Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit and the North Bergen Police Department are investigating a crash on Tonnelle Avenue that left one pedestrian dead on Friday, December 9, Hudson County Prosecutor Esther Suarez has announced.

At approximately 12:04 p.m., the North Bergen Police Department was notified of a pedestrian struck in the area of Tonnelle Avenue and 91st Street. Responding officers found the lifeless body of a woman and she was pronounced dead at the scene.

At this time, the victim’s name is being withheld pending notification to her next of kin.

During the initial investigation, it was determined the woman was struck by a tractor trailer traveling south on Tonnelle Avenue. The driver of the tractor trailer, a 38-year-old Texas man, continued on Tonnelle Avenue, stopped in the area of 68th Street, and called 911.

The Hudson County Regional Collision Investigation Unit and the North Bergen Police Department are actively investigating this case. No arrests have been made at this time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Office of the Hudson County Prosecutor at 201-915-1345 or to leave an anonymous tip at. hudsoncountyprosecutorsofficenj.org/homicide-tip. All information will be kept confidential.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

Assemblywoman Jimenez to run on ticket with Cirillo in West New York

Hudson Reporter

December 12, 2022

12wnyjimenez22 — West New York Commissioner of Public Affairs Cosmo Cirillo Ph.D. (left) and State Assemblywoman Angelica Jimenez (right) at a clothing drive at the West New York Little League Field on December 4 for victims of a recent fire in town. Photo courtesy of Cirillo.

State Assemblywoman Angelica Jimenez, who represents the 32nd Legislative District encompassing much of North Hudson, has announced she will run on a ticket with West New York Commissioner of Public Affairs and mayoral candidate Cosmo Cirillo in the upcoming 2023 municipal election.

Jimenez joins Commissioner of Revenue and Finance Margarita Guzman in running with Cirillo on the “Moving West New York Forward Team.” The announcement of her intention to run on Cirillo’s slate comes after she endorsed him earlier in the week and appeared at several public events alongside him and Guzman.

Redistricting reaps representation shakeup in Hudson County

Jimenez is a prime victim of redistricting of the state legislative map along with the rest of the incumbent members of the 32nd Legislative District which currently includes much of North Hudson. Due to redistricting, she, Assemblyman Pedro Mejia, and State Senator Nicholas Sacco are losing their seats in what will be the new 33rd Legislative District.

The new 32nd Legislative District will shift from North Hudson to largely include Hoboken and Jersey City. Meanwhile, the new 33rd Legislative District will shift from Hoboken and Jersey City to include most of North Hudson.

Sacco was redistricted into the same district as Union City Mayor and State Senator Brian Stack. Instead of rehashing a previous showdown between the two Hudson County leaders, Sacco has decided to retire and has endorsed Stack for the new 33rd Legislative District in the 2024 election.

Stack is expected to run on a ticket with current West New York Mayor Gabriel Rodriguez. Rodriguez is not running for re-election and is instead eyeing a seat in the legislature.

In addition to Rodriguez, the other running mate anticipated on the ticket with Stack and Rodriguez is North Bergen Commissioner of Revenue and Finance Julio Marenco. With that, Mejia and Jimenez are left without a seat, thus leading to Jimenez’s entrance into the West New York race.

“I am very honored to represent not only the Town of West New York, but the entire 32nd Legislative District, in the New Jersey General Assembly,” Jimenez said. “I entered public service because I wanted to help people and give back.”

Jimenez proud of past experience in West New York

Jimenez said she was proud of her past in West New York prior to becoming an assemblywoman, including serving as the Vice Chairwoman of the West new York Housing Authority, Vice Chairwoman of the West New York Board of Education. She was also the Vice President of non-profit organization West New York Women’s Club that helped with many charitable causes throughout the years, she said.

“It is clear to me that at this moment in time, the best way to help my community is to dedicate myself to the town I have called home for over 52 years,” Jimenez said. “I have seen many changes take place during this time and truly believe that we need to move our community forward and not backwards.”

According to Jimenez, the community needs to continue its progress and not regress. This was a jab, similar to one in Cirillo’s announcement, at likely challenger outgoing Rep. Albio Sires, who was previously West New York mayor from 1995 to 2006. The retiring Sires was replaced by Congressman-elect Robert Menendez, Jr. in the November midterm elections.

Sires has also made clear his intention to run for mayor although he has not announced it officially and won’t do so until his congressional term ends in January. It may also come to apply to former Mayor Dr. Felix Roque, who has mulled running again for the spot he held from 2011 until he was ousted by Rodriguez in 2019.

“Cosmo offers our community many innovative ideas and a vision that will help our town thrive,” Jimenez said. “We have worked closely together throughout the years and I know he has the drive and dedication to make WNY the best it can be. I am happy to officially endorse him to become our next Mayor and am proud to join him and Commissioner Margarita Guzman as part of the West New York Forward Team.”

If she is elected, she will resign early from the General Assembly in July of 2023 to be sworn in as a West New York Commissioner on the first of that month. In the wake of that, a special election would be triggered for her old seat, the victor of which would serve for the remaining six months of her term.

Jimenez concluded: “As an American of Cuban descent, longtime homeowner, and the mother of two children who grew up here, one of whom serves our community as a police officer, I have no doubt that the West New York Forward Team will put in the hard work and place the needs of our residents first.”

Cirillo touts Jimenez’s experience in West New York and Trenton

With her announcement Cirillo touted Jimenez as a strong leader in Trenton who will do the same in West New York. He pointed to a number of her accomplishments in the State House over the years.

“Assemblywoman Jimenez has proven herself to be an unwavering leader and champion in the State House for her constituents,” Cirillo said. “I am truly humbled to have her support and to welcome her on the West New York Forward Team. She has demonstrated herself to be an efficient legislator and is respected by her colleagues who have risen her to the rank of Deputy Speaker and Chairwoman of the Human Services Committee.”

Cirillo continued by touting her work in the state legislature.

He said, “She has been a vocal advocate for New Jersey families by helping to pass legislation that provides employees with time off for events regarding the education of their children, as well as fiercely advocating for the nurse-to-patient ratio to change in the state. As a passionate supporter of mental health initiatives, she was awarded the 2020 Legislator of the Year Award by the NJ Psychological Association. Most recently, she is the Prime Sponsor of two out of a five-bill package to combat homelessness within New Jersey.”

Cirillo concluded by touting Jimenez’s impact on the town. “Locally, I am personally thankful to Assemblywoman Jimenez for her assistance in helping to secure a $12.5 million grant from the State for the development of a brand new public library for the Town of West New York. These are only a few of her amazing accomplishments on behalf of the residents of West New York and the State of New Jersey. It is without question that her experience at the state level and her passion for our town will help move West New York in a positive direction forward.”

While 2022 is not even over yet, the 2023 municipal election is already underway in West New York. The Hudson County Democratic Organization has already made it clear they are throwing their weight behind Sires, noted recently at a fundraiser. Regardless, with Cirillo lining up his team, it it sure the West New York election will be one to watch next year.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

Wainstein to challenge Sacco for North Bergen mayor again in 2023

Hudson Reporter

December 9, 2022

12nbwainstein15-01 — Larry Wainstein, photos courtesy of his campaign.

On Dec. 2, in front of a standing-room-only crowd at The Boulevard, local businessman Larry Wainstein announced his candidacy for mayor of North Bergen.

According to Wainstein’s campaign, despite capacity limitations, hundreds of more supporters rallied in the parking lot to “show their commitment to bringing change to their North Hudson community.”

“I am committed to bringing change to North Bergen,” Wainstein said in a press release.

Wainstein detailed a platform that he said includes an open and transparent government, fiscal responsibility, fighting for better protection for renters, building new schools, relocating the students out of the outdated trailers and infrastructure and road repairs.

“Too many North Bergen residents feel like local government isn’t working on their
behalf,” Wainstein said. “My administration will work around the clock to ensure that every resident has a voice.”

Wainstein said he believes that a disconnect exists between the current administration and working-class residents. He is pledging to change that and aims to create an inclusive government.

“Our current administration has been in power for nearly four decades,” Wainstein said. “Whatever could have been done by now, should have been done by now. It is time for new energy, new ideas and new leadership. Together we will bring change to North Bergen. I am so grateful for the tremendous support I received on Friday night. Our movement will continue to grow.”

Wainstein will challenge incumbent Mayor Nicholas Sacco for the third time. Sacco was first elected to the Board of Commissioners in 1985. Sacco became mayor in 1991, and beat Wainstein twice so far in past challenges.

In 2015, Wainstein lost to Sacco by a margin of approximately 65 to 35 percent. Most recently, in 2019, Wainstein lost to Sacco by a margin of approximately 69 to 31 percent.

Before, during and after the election, Wainstein was behind a slew of continuing litigation aimed at his administration. He and his supporters filed highly-publicized lawsuits against North Bergen seeking to halt the North Bergen High School expansion, halt the North Bergen Liberty Generating power plant, and to be able to campaign on housing authority properties, among others. The lawsuit over the school expansion was ruled in North Bergen’s favor, the power plant plan was nixed, and the housing authority campaigning lawsuit was ruled in Wainstein’s favor, although he still lost to Sacco again.

While he has not announced his candidacy officially, Sacco is most definitely running for re-election as mayor. This comes after Sacco, also a State Senator for the 32nd Legislative District since 1994, was redistricted into the same district as State Senator and Union City Mayor Brian Stack of the 33rd Legislative District.

Wainstein supporters packed The Boulevard for his candidacy announcement.

Instead of rehashing a previous bout with Stack, Sacco announced his retirement from the State Senate and endorsed him for senator of the new 33rd Legislative District. Now he is focusing inward on North Bergen.

Neither have announced any running mates yet. However, since Commissioner of Revenue and Finance Julio Marenco is expected to run for a state Assembly seat with Stack in the new 33rd Legislative District, Sacco will need to find a new running mate there.

Otherwise, the mayoral candidates are off to the races. The campaign for the North Bergen 2023 municipal election has begun before 2022 has ended.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

Green House Apothecary changes location of planned cannabis dispensary

Hudson Reporter

December 8, 2022

12nbcannabis15 — The current business at 9001 River Road that is slated to become an eight-story mixed-use residential and commercial redevelopment. Image via Google Maps.

North Bergen has issued a resolution of support to Green House Apothecary, LLC, again, to open a recreational cannabis dispensary in the township to sell to adults over the age of 21.

In July 2021, the township adopted an ordinance creating the Cannabis Committee to receive and review applications by cannabis businesses seeking to operate in the township. Since its formation, the committee has been making recommendations to the Board of Commissioners as to whether the applicants should be approved at the local level.

Previously, in March, Mayor Nicholas Sacco and the Board of Commissioners approved a resolution of support for Green House to obtain a cannabis license and open a dispensary at 1600 Tonnelle Ave. However, the creation of a new commercial zone along River Road permits one medical or recreational cannabis dispensary as long as it does not exceed the township’s total limit of two.

With that, the board is now supporting Green House’s application for a Class 5 retail cannabis license to open a dispensary at 9001 River Road, which received Zoning Board of Adjustment approval in October 2020 for the construction of an eight-story 66-unit residential building with one lower level commercial retail area with two levels of parking on the site of a vacant warehouse and commercial space formerly a liquor store.

At its Dec. 7 meeting of this year, the Board of Commissioners approved the resolution unanimously to move the proposed location to what will likely be the ground floor retail for the mixed-use residential and commercial redevelopment planned for 9001 River Road. The measure also voids the previous approval for 1600 Tonnelle Ave., a commercial area off of the major local thoroughfare.

The move comes as the township has created a new commercial zoning district along the west side of River Road, from Bulls Ferry Road to the Edgewater border. In this zone, 9001 River Road is included as is the permitted use of cannabis establishments, paving the way for the location change.

After the meeting, Township Administrator Janet Castro told the Hudson Reporter that this was Green House seeking to open in a different location from what the township previously approved. “It’s not an additional license,” Castro said.

Now the business will need state approval before it can open. That means the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission approving the dispensary’s application for a retail license as well.

According to Castro, this was the last of the cannabis businesses seeking to open in North Bergen getting local approval. She said all others already have both local and state approvals.

Preparing for the fledgling cannabis industry in North Bergen

In March, North Bergen approved two resolutions of support for the applications submitted by cannabis businesses seeking to open dispensaries in the township. The township’s ordinances regarding cannabis establishments limit it to two retail dispensaries, one north of 43rd Street and the other south of it.

In June, the township approved a resolution of support for its first cannabis manufacturer. In August, the township approved three resolutions of support for two cultivators and another manufacturer.

This brings the total to six licenses sought for five businesses in the township, with two licenses each for retail, manufacturing and cultivation so far. This includes: Daily Muse for a Class 5 cannabis retail location at 6901 Tonnelle Ave.; Alb Labs, LLC for both a Class 2 cannabis manufacturer location and a Class 1 cannabis cultivator location at 2011 8th St. off of Tonnelle Avenue; Happy Hour Extracts for a Class 2 cannabis manufacturer location at 6901 Tonnelle Ave.; CYOUR NJ, LLC for a Class 1 cannabis cultivator location for both medical and recreational cannabis at 2600 71st St.

“Most of them have been approved by the state,” Castro said. She noted that is in addition to the now-pending second retail license that is for Green House. “I think they pretty much all have been approved,” she said.

According to Castro, Green House was the last to receive approval from the municipality. While that needs state approval now, the others have received all approvals and can move forward with opening.

“Now it’s just going about the route of construction, if that requires any depending on the location,” Castro said. “If they want to do any work and it requires a variance of sort, then they’d have to go back to the Zoning Board or Planning Board.”

However, its not clear when any of the facilities will open in the township. Castro said she had no idea yet.

“I don’t know the timeline yet,” Castro said. Regardless, North Bergen cannabis facilities are working their way toward opening.

Meanwhile, Harmony Dispensary in Secaucus has gotten the state’s approval to expand from medical cannabis sales only to now include recreational cannabis sales. Soon, stoners will be able enjoy the high of cannabis products purchased at dispensaries locally in Hudson County.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

North Bergen amends Master Plan to create new commercial zone

Hudson Reporter

December 8, 2022

12nbriver15 — One of the commercial properties on the west side of River Road now included in the redevelopment plan. Image via Google Maps.

North Bergen has created a new zoning district in the township.

Mayor Nicholas Sacco and the Board of Commissioners adopted an ordinance at a Dec. 7 meeting to implement a Master Plan amendment creating a new zoning district after the measure was introduced at a Nov. 9 meeting. Known as the RRC-2 River Road Commercial 2, the district permits commercial use along a portion of the west side of River Road.

The Planning Board adopted a “Periodic Reexamination and Report of the Master Plan and Land Use Plan Element Amendment” at its Nov. 1 meeting. It recognized the character of certain properties on the west side of River Road between Bulls Ferry Road and the border with Edgewater as predominately nonresidential.

The commercial nature of that portion of the street has occurred despite being residentially zoned.

In addition, a number of lots don’t conform to existing zoning bulk standards. Those factors, coupled with significant residential growth in the vicinity, warrant an amendment to the current zoning for these lots in terms of uses and bulk standards.

The Board of Commissioners is responsible for implementing recommendations of the Master Plan to create the new commercial zone district. The new zone permits retail and commercial uses on that side of River Road.

What’s permitted in the new commercial zone?

Permitted uses in the district includes retail sales, personal services, professional offices, banks and eating and drinking establishments without drive-thru or walk-up service.

Cannabis retailers and medical cannabis dispensaries with the proper permits are allowed. According to the ordinance, this is only as long as there is only one within the district and it does not exceed the township’s limit of two dispensaries.

According to the ordinance, the bulk standards now require a minimum lot area of 2,500 square feet, a minimum lot width of 25 feet, a minimum lot depth of 27 feet, no minimum setback from the street or side yard setback or 5 feet if provided, a minimum rear yard setback of 10 feet, a maximum building coverage of 50 percent, a minimum landscaped area of 10 percent, maximum impervious coverage of 90 percent and a maximum building height of three stories or 40 feet.

Buildings with expansive blank walls facing the public right of way are prohibited. According to the ordinance, large horizontal buildings must be broken into segments having vertical orientation.

Architectural elements and design variation, including building offsets, must be integrated to preclude a continuous uninterrupted facade, according to the ordinance. Side and rear building elevations must receive architectural treatments comparable to front facades when visible from a public right-of-way.

A significant landscape feature must be provided. Total landscaping must not be less than 10 percent of the site area, according to the ordinance. Street trees must be provided around parking areas. Parking rows longer than 20 spaces must have a 6-foot-wide landscaped island. There must be particular focus on landscaping the River Road frontage in a “creative and aesthetically-pleasing manner.”

Board unanimously approves Master Plan amendment

Sacco noted the lack of residents this time around to discuss the ordinance. At the Nov. 22 meeting, Nenad and Kathy Krickovic spoke in favor of the Master Plan amendment ordinance, but against the lack of specification of some bulk standards in the district. They also pointed to issues with telephone poles blocking the sidewalk that would be exacerbated by the lack of certain bulk standards, specifically when it comes to setbacks in the front yard.

The amendment went back to the Planning Board for another approval on Dec. 6 before a public hearing for it returned to the Board of Commissioners. With no changes from the Planning Board, the ordinance authorizing the amendment was back for a public hearing and vote by the Board of Commissioners on Dec. 7.

“The people that were here last meeting, I guess they were satisfied with the ordinance,” Sacco said in December. However, Nenad Krickovic was actually in the audience at that meeting.

While he did not address the board from the podium like last time, Krickovic confirmed to Sacco that he was “very satisfied.” The board then voted unanimously to adopt the ordinance.

The next meeting of the Board of Commissioners is on Dec. 21 at 11 a.m. in the municipal chambers at Town Hall at 4233 Kennedy Blvd. For more information, go to northbergen.org.

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

Prior to state approval for recreational cannabis sales, workers at Harmony Dispensary unionized

Hudson Reporter

December 8, 2022

12secunion15 — Shaya Brodchandel, CEO of the Harmony Foundation. Photo courtesy of Harmony.

Secaucus’ Harmony Dispensary recently made headlines after getting state approval to expand from medical cannabis sales to recreational adult-use sales. However, what went somewhat under the radar was that, at the end of October, the workers of the dispensary unionized.

On Oct. 22, United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 360 announced the decision of workers at the Harmony Foundation and its Harmony Dispensary to unionize as members of UFCW. Harmony employees added their names to the fast-growing ranks of UFCW Local 360 from New Jersey’s fledgling cannabis economy.

“This is great news for these workers and their families. They carefully considered and then selected the career-enhancing benefits that come with joining Local 360,” said Hugh Giordano, UFCW Local 360 organizing director.

“From ensuring sick and ailing patients get the help they need, to educating them on how to properly experience the benefits of medical marijuana, to supporting the expansion of this industry, they have shown their commitment to the promises of the cannabis economy,” Giordano said.

“Across the cannabis industry, a new breed of workers is discovering that true unions play a critical role in properly balancing the needs of workers, communities and employers,” said Sam Ferraino Jr., president of UFCW Local 360.

”This vote is not only a sign of support for the union’s pledge to make a positive impact on businesses, families and communities, it is also a statement of support for high operating standards and a diverse and skilled workforce with good working conditions,” Ferraino said.

From “seed to sale,” UFCW is a leader in organizing cannabis industry employees and is the official AFL-CIO-designated cannabis labor union. Representing tens of thousands of cannabis workers in dispensaries, labs, delivery, manufacturing, processing, grow facilities and more, UFCW said it works with employees and business owners to achieve “the shared goal of a regulated cannabis industry that delivers family-sustaining jobs and is focused on social equity.”

“We have always said that the UFCW supports cannabis industry workers from seed to sale,” Giordano added. “And with a company like Harmony, that’s clearly the case. They’re already a name in medical marijuana, with their own cultivation and dispensary operations, and they’re actively looking to expand, both geographically through new businesses and by entering the adult-use market. It is the right time to join Local 360 and we are proud that these employees have come to the same conclusion.”

Harmony now joins the ongoing unionization of cannabis workers nationwide. While it has been approved to enter into the adult cannabis market at its Secaucus dispensary, Harmony also plans on opening medical dispensaries in Hoboken and Jersey City, in addition to its new cultivation site in Lafayette.

“Harmony has always believed that the men and women that come to work every day in our dispensaries deserve to have their voices heard on the job,” said Shaya Brodchandel, CEO of Harmony. “We look forward to our future discussions with our team members, and UFCW Local 360, to build on Harmony’s reputation as being a truly great place to work.”

For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.

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Prior to state approval for recreational cannabis sales, workers at Harmony Dispensary unionized

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