Email should include any evidence, attachments, signatures, firsthand account of alcohol abuse issues in the crossroads commercial district and surrounding communities.
Emails should be sent prior to June 1st.
Hearing is JUNE 6th at 201 Edison Park Drive Gaithersburg MD 20878
STEEL YOURSELVES: SALUD Beer and Wine will appeal.
See a template you can use below:
mail to: “anjanette.ballard@montgomerycountymd.gov”
Subject: Opposition to Beer and Wine License Application for Salud Beer and Wine
Montgomery County ABS Board of Licensure Commissioners,
I am writing to express my firm opposition to the issuance of a beer and wine license for Salud Beer and Wine at 1173 University Boulevard East, Takoma Park Maryland 20912.
The Takoma-Langley Crossroads Commercial District is not only a place of business but also a community where families and locals gather to enjoy a diverse range of offerings. Introducing a sixth option for alcohol sales within our district could jeopardize the very essence that makes it vibrant and welcoming.
Here are the primary reasons for my opposition to the beer and wine license application:
Market Saturation: Including Prince George’s County, within a third of a mile, there are already five off-premises licenses in the area. Within a mile radius, there are a total of fourteen off-premises licenses for alcohol sales. The Crossroads Commercial District and the surrounding neighborhoods are heavily saturated with alcohol sales.
Negative Impact on Individuals, Businesses and Community: The saturation of off-premises alcohol sale establishments already attracts and promotes day drinking and vagrancy in our commercial district and neighborhood. Individuals suffering from substance abuse disorder are able to easily purchase alcohol at one of the many stores in the neighborhood. It is our civic duty to protect those individuals from the effects of alcohol abuse and work with City and County services to bring them the help they need. Limiting the sources of a substance that is having a clear and tangible effect on the local population is the responsible first step in tackling this issue.
Safety Concerns: Introducing increased alcohol sales increases the risk of public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and potential accidents, which could compromise the safety of our patrons and community members. The section of University Boulevard in the commercial district is already one of Maryland’s most dangerous intersections and roadways for pedestrians. This coupled with the active construction zone of the delayed Purple Line Light rail will only make our commercial district more unsafe for pedestrians, drivers, and shoppers.
Adverse Effects on Community Image: Our commercial district prides itself on its reputation as a safe, welcoming, and family-oriented destination. Allowing increased alcohol sales could tarnish this image and deter families and responsible consumers from patronizing our businesses. The Hampshire Langley Shopping Center includes family friendly establishments, such as a Pediatric Dental Practice, a Chuck E Cheese’s, and various restaurants that, intentionally, do not offer beer and wine to their patrons. A nonprofit childcare Center also has a location in the commercial district. Help us provide safe spaces for families and children free of the deleterious effects of alcohol abuse and day drinking.
In light of these concerns, I urge you to carefully consider the implications of granting a beer and wine license to Salud Beer and Wine. I believe that maintaining the current regulations regarding alcohol sales in our district is crucial for preserving its integrity and ensuring its continued success.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Should you require any further information or wish to discuss this issue further, please do not hesitate to contact me at ________________________________.
