Gopal Bill Issuing Additional Liquor Licenses Advances

OCEAN TOWNSHIP – A bill sponsored by Senator Vin Gopal that would authorize the issuance of twelve additional alcoholic beverage licenses in the defunct Fort Monmouth revitalization project area passed the Senate Sunday, July 1.

The bill (S2498) would allow the special license holder to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on the licensed premises. The bill would affect three Monmouth County municipalities: Tinton Falls, Oceanport, and Eatontown.

A location is only eligible for a license if the property’s ownership has been transferred from the military to the Fort Monmouth Economic Revitalization Authority. The special licenses would be issued only to an entity that has completed the mandatory conceptual review process required under the Fort Monmouth Reuse and Redevelopment Plan.

“This bill is vital for the economic success of the region,” said Senator Gopal. “The area has suffered since Fort Monmouth’s departure and this legislation will help spur economic growth in the district.”

The bill passed the Senate with a vote of 39-0.