Johnson City Enacts Moratorium on New Corner Stores

The village of Johnson City is putting the brakes on the development of new corner stores and vape shops.

Lawmakers have approved a one-year moratorium on permits for such businesses. The local law also pertains to the construction and opening of tobacco stores and hookah bars.

Mayor Martin Meaney said the village had been "inundated" by many applications for corner stores and similar operations in recent months.

The mayor told WNBF News there has been a concern about illicit activity that may be generated around such businesses.

An electronic display sign at inside a Johnson City "corner store" on April 7, 2025. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

The one-year moratorium will enable officials to determine whether the village should adopt new regulations pertaining to corner stores and other businesses.

According to the local law, the village board determined "that it is in the interest of public health, safety and welfare" to address the issue in a "careful and thorough manner."

Meaney said the Johnson City police department is actively monitoring corner store locations for potential problems.

Existing businesses are not affected by the moratorium.

The mayor said there already are many corner stores and vape shops operating in the small village, which encompasses only 4.7 square miles.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

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