Sunday Package Sales Referendum Passes by 1-Vote Margin

By a very narrow margin, Dacula voters passed a referendum to allow the Sunday sales of packaged distilled spirits.

The unofficial and as yet uncertified tally: 88 in favor, 87 opposed and one spoiled ballot.

Once the results are certified and the necessary changes are made to the city's alcohol ordinance, Sunday sales may begin -- potentially as soon as next Sunday said Dacula Mayor Jimmy Wilbanks.

Russ Weaver, owner of Dacula Cork and Bottle, said the city's sole liquor store will be open on Sundays just as soon as possible.

"If they'll let me, then obviously I'll be open as soon as I can," Weaver said.

In 2011, Dacula voters passed a referendum allowing the sale of beer and wine on Sundays in grocery and convenience stores. Voters also passed a referendum allowing Sunday sales of liquor by the drink. At the time, there was no liquor store in Dacula and the issue of whether or not to allow the sale of distilled packaged spirits on Sundays did not go before the voters.

However, after voters passed a referendum to allow a package store within the city limits in 2012, a referendum related to Sunday sales of distilled spirits became necessary.

The fact that voters have cast ballots in three alcohol-related referendums in recent years has created some confusion, Weaver said.

"A lot of people think they have already voted on this," Weaver said.

Now, with the latest referendum out of the way, Weaver is ready to get to work.

"If the city gives me the nod, I'll be open at 12:30 p.m. sharp with a smile on my face," he said.

Also on the ballot for City of Dacula voters were three uncontested races. Mayor Jimmy Wilbanks, Councilman Gregory Reeves and Councilman Wendell Holcombe were unopposed in this year's election. There were three write-in votes -- one each for Calvin Walker, Samuel Hinton and Bennie Brady.