Miami Beach voters reject proposal to limit outdoor alcohol sales on Ocean Drive

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – Miami Beach residents have spoken.

Voters decided Tuesday not to trim alcohol sales for outdoor venues along Ocean Drive.

A measure asked voters to cut alcohol sales along the popular stretch of South Beach from 5 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Proponents of the measure claimed it would help curb criminal activity in the area, but businesses like Mango's, Wet Willies, The Clevelander and other Ocean Drive establishments were opposed. 

Business owners posted signs outside their establishments, urging residents to vote "no" on the measure. 

"Tonight, the residents have spoken, and while the measure didn't pass, they were given an opportunity to be active in the decision-making process," Mayor Philip Levine said in a statement. 

Levine was outspoken in favor of the proposal.

"I thank my colleagues for giving the voters an opportunity to weigh in, as I believe the work to keep Ocean Drive safe continues as the new commission takes office," Levine said. "My commitment from day one was focused on giving residents a voice, and through this referendum, we did just that."