Beginning Sunday, Starkville residents will have the ability to purchase liquor by the drink in local restaurants.
The State Tax Commission approved Starkville Sunday liquor sales in a 2-1 vote Wednesday. Liquor and wine sales in restaurants approved by the Mississippi Office of Alcoholic Beverage Control will be available from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday beer sales in off-premise locations, including grocery and convenient stores, will begin Sept. 27. The new alcohol code takes effect immediately.
State Tax Commission spokeswoman Kathy Waterbury said the Commission took into account local tourism, economic and safety issues and based its decision on the will of the local government. She also said many Starkville residents sent numerous letters and e-mails to the Tax Commission in both support and opposition of Sunday sales.
“When it was time, we made copies for the commission to read,” she said. “It was basically, ‘Here’s what the people are saying; let them speak for themselves.'”
Starkville Mayor Parker Wiseman said the decision by the State Tax Commission brings finality to a very difficult local discussion.
“From the beginning, this was not part of my agenda, but my position has been that I would respect the will of the Board of Aldermen which chose to act on changing the alcohol [laws],” he said. “I don’t think this will drastically change Starkville for the better or worst. I think there are some businesses that will benefit immediately — we’ll have to wait and see what the overall economic impact is.
Ward 4 Alderman Richard Corey said he is happy with the Commission’s actions after early September rumors and media reports said the Tax Commission rejected Sunday hard liquor sales.
“I’m not sure as to the cause of the initial delay; however, I’m pleased they chose to honor the city’s request,” he said. “[Sunday sales] is one factor that can be used as a recruitment tool for new restaurants.”
In August, the Starkville Board of Aldermen voted 4-3 to allow for beer, liquor and light wine sales in restaurants more than 250 feet from the property line of a church, funeral or church. The State Tax Commission discussed the request in early September but deferred to vote on the issue.
The city of Starkville regulates hours for beer sales, while the Tax Commission regulates the sale of liquor and wine.