From WBRC Fox 6 News
Copyright 2016 WBRC. All rights reserved.
By Dixon Hayes
Clay County, the last completely dry county in the state, has fallen.
Voters in Ashland and Lineville on Tuesday, both voted to allow alcohol sales in the city.
In Ashland, the final count was 421 yes votes to 229 no votes, or 65 percent to 35 percent.
In Lineville, those votes came to 616 yes votes to 254 no votes, or 75 percent to 25 percent.
Voters had last considered the issue in 1986, with the dry side once again coming out in front.
Supporters said the county’s distinction as the last dry county in the state was costing the area money. Randolph County had gone wet shortly before Clay County, giving residents another place to buy beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages. Supporters also said national chain restaurants won’t locate in dry areas.
Opponents cited religious beliefs as well as other issues such as alcoholism and drunk driving.
Clay County’s distinction as the state’s last dry county and one of the last in the country, has drawn national attention in both traditional media and political blogs.
Last modified: March 2, 2016
