West Cape Liquor License Question Misses Ballot

WEST CAPE MAY —The borough has learned that a liquor license referendum question will not appear on the Nov. 6 ballot due to an error in the filing.
“While the (borough) commissioners are disappointed with this turn of events following months of preparation and discussions, we view the additional time as an opportunity for our residents to collect more information and fully understand the impact two liquor licenses could have on our local taxes,” said Mayor Pam Kaithern.
She said she did not wish to give details on how the filing error occurred.
The borough is currently exploring all options available for an alternative referendum date but Kaithern said she did not have a firm date in mind.
An informational meeting scheduled for Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. at borough hall will be conducted. Commissioners are considering smaller, neighborhood meetings as a means to provide informal discussions with residents.
By state law, the borough is only eligible for two liquor licenses. Without a 10,000 person increase in West Cape May’s population, the number will not change.
If approved by voters, each license would have a minimum bid price established, currently estimated between $650,000 and $750,000 each.
One license is available for a new or existing restaurant. Borough commissioners have stressed their commitment to tie food service to any restaurant liquor sales and have the ability to set limits on things such as the number of seats, hours of operation and location.
The second license would for retail sales.
All revenue received from the sale of the two licenses would be placed in a dedicated trust fund to be used solely for local tax relief over the next 12-16 years.