MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Lakeland’s ballot had just four items, and two of them involved alcohol sales.
“I want wine in the stores. I’d like to have some liquor stores,” said voter Donna Stafford.
Some Lakeland voters WREG spoke with said they voted in favor of allowing wine to be sold in grocery stores and allowing liquor stores to open.
“I think that it’s good tax revenue to come in,” said Jodi Milligan.
Memphis, Arlington, Bartlett, Collierville, Germantown, and Millington already voted last fall in favor of putting wine in grocery stores.
Opponents were critical of liquor stores losing business as a result.
In November’s election, Lakeland approved liquor by the drink.
Administrator of Elections Richard Holden explained why it took Lakeland an extra step.
“Lakeland was incorporated after Shelby County approved liquor sales. So, they put that question on their ballot at that point and time,” Holden said.
Holden said 675 Lakeland residents voted early, and WREG cameras saw a steady flow of voters at the polling place at First Baptist.
“Surrounding areas get, you know, the revenue, the profit. Lakeland needs all it can get,” said voter Jean Decker.
Lakeland voters also voted Thursday for commissioner and school board seats.
