Barnesville council to ask voters about Sunday alcohol sales in March special election
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Summary
Following a public hearing with substantial pro-referendum testimony, the Barnesville City Council voted to place a local referendum on March 21, 2023, asking voters whether to permit additional retail alcohol sales on Sundays.
After a public hearing that drew several residents and business owners in favor of allowing Sunday retail alcohol sales, the Barnesville City Council adopted a resolution calling a special election on the issue.
Supporters argued Sunday sales would increase convenience, keep revenue local and support festivals and downtown activity. Tailgaters owner Caleb Anthony said Sunday sales would generate tax dollars and attract events. Several residents told councilmembers they preferred local availability to avoid out-of-town trips for purchases.
Some councilmembers, while sympathetic to business arguments, asked for broader constituent polling before acting. The council ultimately approved Resolution No. R2022-0017 calling a special election March 21, 2023, to put the question to city voters; the recorded vote was 4–1.
The council emphasized it was placing the decision in voters’ hands rather than deciding the policy itself. If the referendum passes, the city will enact local permitting and align municipal code with state law on retail alcohol sales timing.