Belleville businesses say new operating hours are cutting into sales
The ordinance, passed by the Belleville Township Council earlier this year, changed the hours that certain businesses are permitted to operate. Owners of smoke shops, liquor stores and other affected businesses said the impact has been immediate.
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Belleville business owners say a township ordinance that restricts operating hours for certain businesses has led to a decline in sales.
The ordinance, passed by the Belleville Township Council earlier this year, changed the hours that certain businesses are permitted to operate. Owners of smoke shops, liquor stores and other affected businesses said the impact has been immediate.
Max Yasin, owner of Max Smoke on Washington Avenue, said his store previously operated until midnight but is now required to close at 9 p.m.
“From 8 p.m. until midnight, that's 30% of my business,” he said.
Yasin also said the revenue loss has affected staffing.
“This is not just me getting hurt,” he said. “What about the workers? I've got to cut their hours too.”
Across the street, Liquor City owner Angat Chokshi said his store previously remained open until 11 p.m. but now closes at 10 p.m.
"At least I am down 35%,” said Chokshi.
According to business owners, the ordinance applies to smoke shops, liquor stores and several other types of businesses, prohibiting them from operating before or after specific times.
News 12 contacted Belleville officials seeking comment on the ordinance and its purpose. A response has not been received at the time of publication.
