Microbreweries Get Final Approval To Come To Moorestown

MOORESTOWN, NJ —Moorestown Council on Monday gave final approval to a proposal that paves the way for microbreweries to open in the township, and it discussed how it will sell its liquor licenses.

Township Council unanimously approved a proposed ordinance to permit breweries, distilleries and winery salerooms in Moorestown.

Residents mostly voiced support for breweries, which are considered “light manufacturing,” during the public hearing.

“I strongly support this to help businesses,” Kate Wilson said. “We’re looking for traffic generation, and this will bring people into the town and help the other businesses.”

“Residents overwhelmingly support this,” Mark Hines said. “Breweries have proven to be very popular. They bring in more foot traffic, and they support our restaurants.”

Proponents say these businesses will help restaurants because breweries don’t serve food, but they do allow visitors to bring in food from other establishments.

Visitors to these establishments take an educational tour to see the brewing process, and the breweries only sell what they make on the site.

Shoppers aren't going to a brewery to get a 6-pack of their favorite beer, for example. They will soon be able to do that elsewhere after Township Council previously gave final approval to a proposal to allow liquor stores in the township. Read more here: Retail Liquor Licenses Get Final Approval In Moorestown

On Monday night, Township Council unanimously voiced support for the township’s two liquor licenses to be sold using the “historical method,” which gives the town greater control over whom it awards the licenses to.

Township Manager Tom Merchel had asked them to decide between this and the “traditional method,” in which the highest bidder gets the job. Read more here: Breweries May Be Coming To Moorestown; Liquor Licenses To Be Sold

“I think the historical method gives us more data and control, and we can still go with the highest bidder,” Moorestown Mayor Nicole Gillespie said.

“I don’t see the benefit of the traditional method,” Councilman Dave Zipin said. “We’re looking to get the most budget relief we can, and the historical method is measured but helpful. I’m looking at this from the fiscal side, and what’s best for the town.”

Zipin and Councilman Jake Van Dyken both voiced concerns about the possibility of someone purchasing a license and selling it to someone else for a lower price.

“It benefits us to have more information on who’s bidding,” Van Dyken said.

Councilman Quinton Law said the “historical method” puts the township in a more advantageous position, and Deputy Mayor Sue Mammarella likes that the township isn’t forced to just award the licenses to the highest bidder.

Township Council also agreed to sell them for a $1 million minimum bid, with a 25 percent down payment.

No official action could be taken on the licenses Monday night, as the township continues to await approval of the licenses from New Jersey Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), Township Solicitor Kevin Aberant said.