Coalition against wine-in-grocery-store proposal makes last push in opposition

NEW HARTFORD, N.Y. (WKTV) - "The Last Store on Main Street" coalition launched its final push Thursday to block Governor Paterson's proposal to allow grocery stores and gas stations to sell wine.

A rally was held Thursday at Seneca Wine and Liquor in New Hartford.

The group of wine retailers, small business owners, wineries, and elected officials said Governor Paterson's plan will immediately create 19,000 new competitors for them.

The coalition said the bill would put roughly 4,500 people out of work.

Liquor stores are only allowed to sell a limited number of items.

State officials have offered to add a few more items to the list, putting them on a more level playing field.

"We don't need to be on a more level playing field," said Gregory Gorea of Seneca Wine and Liquor. "We all went into this business knowing what it was. Everyone here made an investment in local business. We don't want to compete against Wal-mart. because Wal-mart is not only going to put us out of business, they're going to put a lot of New York State wineries out of business."

Proponents of the legislation said it would bring in $300 million to the state without adding a cent of tax. The money would come from liquor license applications.