More Cherry Hill Establishments Can Serve Liquor Under Proposed Policy

CHERRY HILL, NJ — Cherry Hill officials are looking to make three new liquor licenses available for businesses in the township.

Under an ordinance the Township Council introduced last week, Cherry Hill would allow two more mall businesses to serve alcohol while letting another liquor store operate in the township.

Last year, the state overhauled its liquor-license laws, which now allow cities and towns to issue additional licenses for businesses at shopping malls — even if the municipality has reached its limit on liquor licenses, which is primarily determined by population. The measure is partially designed to revitalize malls.

The township's ordinance, if passed, would allow two more restaurants or similar establishments at Cherry Hill Mall to serve alcohol.

Additionally, the township would create one more liquor-distribution license available to retailers in the municipality — an expansion made possible by Cherry Hill's sustained population growth.

The state caps individual cities and towns at one distribution license per 7,500 residents. Census data puts Cherry Hill's estimated population at 77,315 — enough for 10 alcohol retailers within the township's premises instead of the current cap of nine.

Up to 30 restaurants and bars can hold liquor licenses in Cherry Hill. But the new state law allows two more businesses at qualifying malls to receive "special licenses" for the same.

Eligible malls — as defined by the state's new law — must have at least 750,000 gross square feet and an enclosed walkway connecting its businesses. Cherry Hill Mall would qualify under the criteria.

Establishments at strip malls or larger retail complexes without the shared, enclosed space aren't eligible for the special licenses.

A vote to introduce Cherry Hill's ordinance passed unanimously at last Tuesday's council meeting. The policy is set for a public hearing and a vote for adoption at the next meeting, which begins at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8.