Question of the Day: Should Needham Stay Dry?

Two weeks ago, the Needham Board of Selectmen began a about whether wine and beer shops should be allowed in Needham.

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

The latest question of whether Needham should allow wine and beer to be sold in local stores was brought forward by the Council of Economic Advisors, which has received requests from several entrepreneurs looking to start such a business in town. No decision has been made, and the council has said it would like to put out a survey of Needham residents to weigh public opinion.

So what do you think? Should Needham allow the sale of beer, wine or even liquor? Should bars be allowed to open in town? Or should Needham hang on to its "dry" status?

Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Question of the Day is a new feature at Needham Patch that asks readers their views on a variety of topics each weekday. Have a question you'd like to see asked? Submit it to editor Becca Manning