2 Metro Cities To Vote On Alcohol Sales

Voters in Flowood and parts of Pearl are another step closer to taking vote on liquor sales in their communities.  Governor Haley Barbour signed a bill allowing the issue to go on a ballot.  It’s now up to voters to decide if they want the referendum to go up for a vote.

The U.S. Justice Department still has to give the go-ahead.  The federal government has to review any legislation involving an election in southern states under the Voting Rights Act of 19-64.  If the U.S. Justice Department approves, then a petition has to be signed by 20% of the qualified voters to get the issue on the ballot.

Restaurant and hotel managers in Pearl say they’re excited about the possibility of selling wine and liquor because they say it’s good for business.  But not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon.

Tony Montgomery, the manager at Stanley’s Wine and Liquor in Jackson, says much of his business comes from residents living in dry counties.

“It’s a tremendous business coming from Rankin County,“ he said.  “We are the largest store in the state.“

He admits his business could take a hit if Pearl residents decide to drink at local restaurants instead of buying from his store.  However, if those restaurants purchase their alcohol from his store, he could benefit

“I don’t know why the governor’s trying to push liquor in Rankin County when they’ve already voted against it,“ he said.

If the liquor bill gets on a ballot, it would take a simple majority vote to pass.