HARRISBURG, Pa. — Voters in Penbrook Borough, Dauphin County will be presented with a ballot measure on Election Day to allow for alcohol sales within the municipality.
The vote could reverse a borough ordinance that has been in place since the Prohibition era.
“It would be nice to walk somewhere, especially if you’re going to have a beer or two," said Ben Stokes, a Penbrook Borough council member.
Stokes said the ballot question was added after 148 residents signed a petition a few months ago.
“A lot of residents, it seemed to the planning commission, were looking for a change and might want to go out to dinner and have a drink with their meal," said Stokes.
If the measure passes, the borough would allow businesses to get brewery licenses in the municipality. This would pave the way for brewhouses to come into the area, which are only allowed to serve Pennsylvania-made wine and spirits, and beer brewed in-house.
Jose Deleon, who has lived in Penbrook for two years, said he is supportive of the measure. He believes this will allow more businesses and people to flock into the borough.
“It’s going to bring business to the area and a lot of customers. Maybe another person decides to open another [brewery]," said Deleon. “It is common sense. I mean, what’s the big deal? Alcohol is legal.”
Jeff Morrill said he is unsure how he will vote on the ballot measure. He said he and his neighbors are split on the issue.
“It’s good for the people who like to drink," said Morrill. "But for the people who like to drink too much, it’s going to be bad for the area.”
Regardless of the outcome, Morrill said he wants Penbrook to remain a nice place for people to live.
“Even if the liquor does come, please just act right. That is all," said Morrill.