Around Toms River: Council Creating Committee On Retail Cannabis

TOMS RIVER, NJ — The Toms River Township Council is forming a committee to consider whether there are places in the township that could accommodate cannabis businesses.

The council on Wednesday again tabled a proposed ordinance that would ban retail cannabis businesses and delivery businesses from setting up shop in Toms River.

The move was opposed by Council Vice President Maria Maruca and Councilman Dan Rodrick. Rodrick was assigned to serve on the committee by Council President Kevin Geoghegan but on Friday said he would not do so. Read more: Toms River Council Again Tables Retail Marijuana Ban

The council will have at least one new member in 2022, after Maruca was defeated in the Republican primary on Tuesday. Justin Lamb defeated Maruca in the Ward 1 GOP primary. Rodrick won the Ward 2 primary, and two of Maruca's running mates, James Quinlisk and David Ciccozzi, won in Wards 3 and 4. Read more: Rodrick Wins, Lamb Ousts Maruca In Toms River Council GOP Primary

The fall could see changes in the Toms River Regional School District, as the district struggles to find enough bus drivers to fill more than 25 openings.

The shortage could mean a change in the distrist's four-tier busing schedule that serves the district's 18 schools, with earlier start times possible. The district's three high schools and Toms River Intermediate North begin classes at 7:15 a.m.

"We are doing everything in our power, including offering a retention incentive, to get drivers aboard," said William Doering, the district's business administrator. The retention incentive is $3,000, he said. Read more: Bus Driver Shortage Could Alter Toms River Schools' Start Times

One thing that most likely will be different in the fall in the Toms River schools is mask-wearing, after Gov. Phil Murphy opened the door for districts to lift mask requirements in extreme heat. Read more: Toms River Schools Make Masks Optional In Extreme Heat

Also:

• The primary may be over, but here is information on the Toms River Council candidates: Toms River GOP Primary: Claims, Counterclaims And Consent Decree
• Teen Curfew In Effect In Toms River Beach Areas
• Toms River Police Receive $314K Grant For Body-Worn Cameras

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