OCEAN CITY, N.J., Aug. 20 (UPI) -- Voters in Ocean City, a Jersey Shore resort founded by four Methodist ministers, will decide in November if patrons can bring beer and wine to restaurants.
City Clerk Linda MacIntyre said Thursday supporters of the BYOB policy have gathered enough signatures to get the issue on the ballot, The Press of Atlantic City reported.
Like Ocean Grove 70 miles up the Jersey Shore, which served as a model, Ocean City began as a Methodist camp meeting. The town on a barrier island south of Atlantic City was laid out in 1879.
The proposal to allow beer and wine in restaurants -- which would have to be purchased elsewhere -- has divided business owners and residents. Restaurant owners argue they are losing business to competitors on the mainland, while others argue many vacationing families are drawn to Ocean City by the no alcohol policy.
The Ocean City Tabernacle, still one of the most prominent landmarks in town, opposes the initiative.
