E-Malt.com News article: USA: Cold beer sales approved in Starkville

The aldermen of Starkville have approved the sale of cold beer and light wine in grocery and convenience stores in the city. This decision (6-1) came on Tuesday August 2, according to Associated Press.

Alderman P.C. McLaurin voted against the proposal. "I have given a great deal of thought to this issue, and have difficulty coming up with one practical thing that this will accomplish," McLaurin said. "Many of our local sellers are not interested because of the added cost involved in cold beer, and it could lead to greater DUI incidents and other safety issues."

Alderman Richard Corey said safety issues called for the new ordinance. "Many students drive to West Point or Columbus for cold beer; that creates a hazard," said Corey. "Cold beer in other places is a draw because beer that has been cold, then hot and then cold again spoils much faster."

Interim City Attorney Rodney Faver told aldermen that the city's existing prohibition of refrigerated beer sales would likely not survive a legal challenge. "The prohibition of sale of cold beer is not justified," Faver said.

Cold beer sales should begin in a few weeks, officials said.


05 August, 2005