Maysville to vote Monday on beer/wine

More than 120 people filled the fire station in Maysville Monday night, with all but a handful opposed to a city council proposal for beer and wine to be sold in the small town on the Banks-Jackson county line.

Public hearings have now been held in all four districts in Maysville with the majority of residents attending being opposed to the sale of beer and wine in the town. The public hearing held this week was for the first reading of the ordinance. The council will vote on the issue at a called meeting set for 7 p.m. Monday at the public library.

One of those pushing for the ordinance said Monday night that she wouldn’t stop until she got a beer and wine license for a sports tavern she plans to open.

“We will not stop until we get the beer and wine,” said Debbie Atkins. “We will continue to work hard … and we will serve beer and wine in our sports tavern.”

But most of those who have attended meetings on the issue have been opposed.

Comments from some of the others who spoke in opposition include the following:

•Gladys Cochran: “I don’t see why Maysville has to change just because a few people think they can come in and change things.”

•Trent Strickland: “I will work just as hard as Mrs. Atkins to see that this is defeated … If you go by the pleasure of the people, it will be denied.”

•Richard Presley: “Please consider the risk and liability to the town … The majority of the people have spoken a loud no that we don’t want alcohol in our town.”

•Bud Klugh: “The folks in Maysville don’t want beer and wine sold in Maysville. You (the council) have to lay aside your personal opinions and follow what the citizens of Maysville voted you in office to do.”

•John Lewallen: “I felt threatened tonight. When someone says they will not stop (until they can sale beer and wine), I take that as a threat.”

•Melody Stancil: “Allowing a pouring license will not revitalize the town … It is a misguided effort.”