Expansion Of Liquor Sales In Moorestown Under Discussion

MOORESTOWN, NJ — Moorestown Council is considering expanding the sale of alcohol to other parts of the township. Currently, the sale of alcohol is limited to restaurants at the PREIT-owned Moorestown Mall.

In order to expand liquor sales, council would have to amend the township code and then decide where alcohol would be permitted to be sold, as well as the hours of operation.

Council members discussed the possibility of allowing alcohol to be sold in the areas near the mall and the old K-Mart to help development there, and whether alcohol will be limited to standalone liquor stores or also sold in supermarkets.

The first step is to amend the existing code before deciding on the issuing of licenses. There would likely be two additional liquor licenses allowed in the township, according to Township Solicitor Kevin Aberant.

In 2011, Moorestown residents voted to lift the township's century-long embargo on alcohol sales during a special election. Read more here: ‘Yes’ Wins: Moorestown Liquor Referendum Passes

But before that, in 2007, Moorestown voters defeated a similar proposal. As a result, council members understand the need to fully vet any expansion of alcohol sales through the Planning Board and the Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC).

After going through those avenues, any proposed legislation would likely be introduced in July, with a final vote in August before the township can consider the issuing of licenses.

The discussion took place during the workshop portion of Monday night's council meeting, and no official action was taken.