Issue of alcohol sales headed back to the ballot, special election set for July 28th

voteBENTON – It has been decided – the issue of alcohol sales is headed back to the ballot following certification of the petitions turned over late last week to the county clerk’s office. Today, Marshall County Judge Executive Chyrill Miller signed the order which indicates the date of the special election will be July 28th.

Proponents of alcohol sales making up the ‘Vote Yes’ group worked diligently over the past several months garnering more than 3,600 signatures, a few hundred above the required 3,366 needed.

Three years ago when the issue was first taken to the ballot following a heated debate from both sides, the measure was narrowly defeated, 47 to 53 percent – a total of 695 votes.

If the measure passes, packaged liquor and by the drink sales will be permissible only in areas and establishments having proper permits.