By Betsy Finklea
The second reading of an ordinance to allow voters to decide whether or not they want Sunday alcohol sales will be held at the Dillon County Council’s regular meeting on Wednesday, July 24th.
The Dillon County Council passed the first reading of an ordinance by title only on July 18th. The ordinance title was:
” Ordinance No. 24-11 – First Reading – In Title Only AN ORDINANCE OF DILLON COUNTY CALLING FOR A REFERENDUM AND ALLOT QUESTION TO AUTHORIZE THE SOUTH AROLINA DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE TO ISSUE TEMPORARY PERMITS FOR THE POSSESSION, SALE AND CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC LIQUORS BY THE DRINK TO BONAFIDE NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS FOR CONSUMPTION-ON PREMISES SALES AND FOR OFF-PREMISES SALES OF BEER AND WINE WITHOUT REGARD TO THE DAYS OR HOURS OF SALES.”
The motion to pass the ordinance was made by Councilman T.F. “Buzzy” Finklea, Jr. He said by making the motion he wasn’t stating whether he was for or against Sunday alcohol sales. He said that he thought the people of Dillon County ought to decide on an issue this important, not just seven council members. Councilman Robbie Coward seconded the motion.
Voting in favor of the motion was Finklea, Coward, Chairwoman Detrice Dawkins, and Councilman Kenny Cook. Councilman Dennis Townsend voted against it. Councilman Stevie Grice did not vote stating that he did not know what he wanted to do yet.
County Administrator Tim Harper explained the process The second reading of the ordinance will take place at the regular meeting on Wednesday, July 24th at 5 p.m. at the Dillon County Council Chambers. The public hearing and third reading of the ordinance will take place on August 8th. The process has to be completed by August 15th to be on the ballot.
