Residents of Haddon Heights, New Jersey, recently voted to repeal a 120-year ban on alcohol sales within the town. The suburb, located about 10 miles southeast of Philadelphia, is currently devoid of liquor stores and bars. The ballot measure that was approved proposes the sale of liquor at restaurants, bars, and box stores, with 62% in favor and 38% opposed. However, the mayor and council still need to draft and pass legislation to officially end the prohibition before residents can toast with drinks bought in Haddon Heights.
Once the legislation is passed, the process of applying for and approving liquor licenses will also delay any plans for alcohol sales in Haddon Heights. The town will only be able to receive two liquor licenses based on its population size of roughly 7,400 people, as stipulated by state law that allows one retail liquor license for every 3,000 people. Haddon Heights is one of 30 municipalities in New Jersey that currently do not allow retail consumption licenses, according to the New Jersey Licensed Beverage Association.
Mayor Zachary Houck expressed optimism about the outcome of the vote, stating that the town would respect the wishes of the residents if it was overwhelmingly favorable in one way or the other. The repeal of the ban on alcohol sales has been met with enthusiasm by some residents, who are looking forward to the potential economic and social benefits that could come with the introduction of liquor sales in the town. However, there are also concerns about the impact of alcohol sales on the community and the need for responsible consumption.
The approval of the ballot measure does not automatically mean that residents can start purchasing alcohol in Haddon Heights. The mayor and council will need to work on drafting and passing legislation to regulate liquor sales within the town. This process may take some time, and residents will need to wait for the official end of the more than a century-old prohibition before they can enjoy drinks bought in Haddon Heights. Once the legislation is in place, the town will be able to start accepting applications for liquor licenses.
Overall, the repeal of the ban on alcohol sales in Haddon Heights represents a significant change for the dry town. Residents have shown their support for introducing liquor sales in restaurants, bars, and box stores, but the process of implementing this change will require careful consideration and planning. As one of the few municipalities in New Jersey that currently do not allow retail consumption licenses, Haddon Heights will need to navigate the regulatory requirements and limitations set by state law before residents can fully embrace the prospect of enjoying alcoholic beverages within town lines.
