There are many concerns about the increase in alcohol outlet density in our small, seaside community and how that impacts our quality of life and the message it sends to our youth.

• The total number is 23 and counting. That is one outlet for every 575 adults in town in an area that is 1.8 square miles.
• Alcohol-related issues increase in areas where there is a greater concentration of outlets.
• Placing alcohol in a setting that is accessible to youth on an unrestricted basis, versus the traditional placement of alcohol in package stores, gives youth the message that alcohol is a necessity akin to eggs, bread , and milk.
• It also sends youth the message that alcohol is not a restricted product and is not any more dangerous than the food products it shares shelf space with. Nothing could be further from the truth.