Needham selectmen are asking residents to weigh in today on whether the town should allow the retail sale of alcohol. A public hearing is scheduled for 7:45 p.m. at the board's meeting room inside Town Hall, part of selectmen's regular meeting which will begin at 6:45 p.m.

Needham has been essentially dry since before the days of Prohibition, which began in 1920. Today, the town allows limited sale of alcohol in restaurants with more than 100 seats and for special one-day events with a license. The only bar in town that is not part of a restaurant is at the Sheraton Needham, which was allowed under the town's 1960s hotels exception.

In June, members of the Council of Economic Advisors appeared before selectmen suggesting they authorize a survey of residents to gauge interest in the change. Selectmen did not feel a "non-scientific" survey was the best way to proceed and opted instead to move forward with a public hearing. 

Those unable to attend tonight's meeting may submit their comments to the Board of Selectmen, c/o Needham Town Hall, 1471 Highland Ave., Needham or may email comments to selectmen@needhamma.gov.