Voters to Decide on BYOBs in Ocean City

Community fears upsetting ‘family friendly’ image

Residents of Ocean City, N.J. are stirred up over a referendum vote on Tuesday that could change its more than century-old alcohol-free reputation.

The question is whether the shore town should allow customers to bring their own beer and wine to restaurants.

Supporters gathered the necessary petition signatures to force the May 8 vote. It has the support of at least some restaurant owners interested in recapturing business that may now be going elsewhere.

Opponents are worried about losing the community's image as "America's Greatest Family Resort." They point to Ocean City’s consistently high best beach rankings.

The Tuesday election will decide four City Council seats along with the BYOB ordinance. Polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p..m.

  • See the full proposed BYOB ordinance here.
  • Information on the May 8 Ocean City municipal election is here.
  • Get results here

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