West New York plans to allow wine and beer in restaurants without liquor licenses

AP Photo

West New York introduced an ordinance that would allow customers to drink beer and wine in establishments that do not have a liquor license.

On Wednesday, the West New York Board of Commissioners introduced an ordinance that would allow for the consumption of wine and beer at retail establishments that don't have liquor licenses.

The ordinance amends a previous ordinance adopted two years ago that prevented the consumption of wine and beer at restaurants that didn't have liquor licenses.

The Board of Commissioners "determined that it is in the best interests of the business community of the Town," according to the ordinance, "that the interests of diners who wish to drink responsibly can be accommodated while protecting the public interests in the prevention of disorderly behavior."

The ordinance, which is up for final adoption at next month's Feb. 17 meeting, is aimed at helping smaller restaurants.

"In order for us to grow and attract more businesses and restaurants, we felt we needed to do this," Mayor Silverio "Sal" Vega said.

According to the ordinance, business owners would still have the right to disallow consumption of alcoholic beverages at their establishments.

As for whether or not passing such a BYOB (bring your own beer) resolution would pose safety issues for the town, West New York Police Director Albert Bringa said he didn't foresee any problems.

Lots of other municipalities have it, he said. "Why not West New York?"

The board next meets 7 p.m. Feb. 17, at City Hall, 428 60th St.