Millville commission backs Taste of Earth cannabis license; mayor abstains

The Millville City Commission on a recorded vote supported a resolution backing Taste of Earth LLC’s bid to operate a classified cannabis retail store at 1205 North High Street, Block 257, Lot 8. Commissioners said they used an extensive application review and a work-session process to identify a preferred applicant; the measure passed with four votes in favor and one abstention.

Commissioners described a “fair” and lengthy review process that, in their view, produced a single candidate that stood out. “It was a long process. It was a fair process, and all of the commissioners looked independently at the information that was given to them, and they came up with a clear winner,” the mayor said during the discussion, and then announced he would abstain because he had been involved in setting up the selection process.

The owners of Taste of Earth addressed the commission during the public-comment period. Blaise Manzoni, one of the owners, told commissioners, “We are honored to be the chosen recipients of this license. We do promise you that we will do our best to be good partners with you guys and stewards of that.” Brian Kruseman, the other owner who spoke, said the business staff remained available to address concerns and would cooperate with the city.

Commissioners noted the license remains subject to state review and approvals outside Millville’s control. The commission also noted a municipal revenue benefit tied to local sales: a city representative said the city would receive a 2% share of sales from the operation, though that percentage and final financial outcomes depend on final licensing and tax arrangements.

Action and vote: The motion to support the applicant was made and seconded during the meeting and passed by roll call, with the recorded outcome four in favor and the mayor abstaining. The resolution provides the city’s formal support for Taste of Earth to pursue the required state licensing steps; state approval and any additional conditions remain pending.

The commission did not take further administrative action on vendor operations at this meeting. The selection and the commission’s support mark a procedural local step; final licensure and operational requirements will be determined through the state process.