Voters oppose alcohol proposition for package store in Bethel Newly elected and re-elected council members take oath of office

by Greg Lincoln

The initiative for a package liquor store in Bethel for selling beer and wine did not pass during the October 4th, 2022 municipal election. Nearly 60% of Bethel’s voters said that they did not want a beer/wine package store. Bethel’s alcohol liquor laws will remain the same.

Proposition No. 2: Shall the City of Bethel adopt a local option to prohibit the sale of alcoholic beverages EXCEPT through a: – Restaurant or eating place license, which authorizes the restaurant or eating place to sell beer or wine for consumption only on the licensed premises; AND -Package store license, limited to selling only beer and wine to a person present on the licensed premises – did not pass 451 no to 209 yes.

Proposition No. 1: The City of Bethel shall not enact any mandates requiring masks or face coverings – passed 341 yes to 319 no.

The City of Bethel also has some newly elected council members. Taking the oath of office and their new seats are incumbent Rose “Sugar” Henderson, and new members Patrick Snow, Sophie Swope, and write-in candidate Henry S. Batchelor Jr.

The elected officials were sworn in during the October 11th, 2022 regular council meeting. Council members Henderson, Snow, and Swope will be serving two year terms ending in 2024. Batchelor will be serving a one year term ending in 2023 – the remainder of former council member Conrad McCormick’s term.

McCormick is seeking a seat on the State Legislature and is currently running for Alaska House District 38.

Outgoing council members – Perry Barr, Michelle DeWitt, and Conrad McCormick – were given tokens of appreciation by City Clerk Lori Strickler.

“We had a great turnout this election. We had just over 18% voter turnout which is really good for our municipal elections,” said City clerk Lori Strickler.

There are 4,088 registered voters in Bethel and 70 voters voted via Early Voting. The Canvass Board met on October 6th, 2022 to verify the questioned, absentee, and special needs ballots. The Bethel City Council passed Resolution 21-11 certifying the results of the October 4th, 2022 regular city election.

Thank you to all who voted – you are greatly appreciated.