Protesters surface at pro-liquor meeting

By WILL STEWART / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Carrie Richardson shows her opposition to the liquor by the drink referendum Wednesday night across from Holiday Inn Express, where referendum supporters were holding a meeting. (Will Stewart photo)

Organized under the name Citizens for McMinnville Growth, supporters of the liquor by the drink referendum vowed Wednesday night to do all they could to see the measure pass in November.

“Our side didn’t spend the first cent two years ago,” said organizer Charlie Moss. “But this year we’re going to raise money and we’re going to spend it. This time around, we’ll be a lot more noticeable.”

Meeting at Holiday Inn Express, referendum supporters gathered to discuss the issue and what measures and strategies they could employ to see it approved by McMinnville city voters.

Moss stressed the group’s efforts are geared toward the growth of the city, not to create drunks. “We’re working for McMinnville’s growth, more jobs and less taxes,” he said.

Not all agreed. During the Citizens for McMinnville Growth meeting, between 15 and 20 anti-liquor supporters protested across the street, holding anti-liquor signs.

“We’re trying to make a statement that we’re concerned about our children and our county,” said protester Jerry Steakley, as motorists passing by honked their horns in support. “If we change one mind, it’s worth it.”

While admitting the group faces an uphill battle, Moss said he is optimistic, noting this year’s petition to get the referendum on the ballot contained 351 valid signatures, as opposed to 218 two years ago, when the measure failed at the polls by 10 votes.