McKenzie residents to vote on liquor referendum

McKENZIE, Tenn. — With the election less than a week away, McKenzie residents will have a chance to vote on a referendum that would allow restaurants to sell liquor.

The referendum is called “Liquor by the Drink” and is on the Nov. 8 ballot.

If it is approved, local restaurants will apply through the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Control Board for a permit to serve those beverages.

The McKenzie Alcoholic Beverage Control Board will also have to approve the restaurant’s request before the permit is issued.

Some locals in the area say they think it would be a good thing for the community.

“You know if they pass it they will build more restaurants here, and everybody wouldn’t have to go to Jackson to go somewhere fun,” Carroll County resident Dan Eultgen said.

Maria’s Mexican Restaurant is currently the only restaurant where people in McKenzie can buy a beer with their meal.

While some residents say liquor in restaurants would bring more business, others say they would be disappointed if it passes.

“They shouldn’t. They should not allow in restaurants,” McKenzie resident William Nunnery said. “They would get drunk and kill somebody.”

McKenzie is the only city in Carroll County that has package liquor stores and wine in grocery stores. Both were passed by referendum in 2014.

Voting polls in Carroll County are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 8.