Marion approves Sunday alcohol sales
By a vote of 2-1, Marion City Commission approved Sunday alcohol sales Monday during a weekly meeting.
Mayor Martin Tice voted against the change in a city ordinance that will allow local retail stores to sell alcoholic beverages between noon and 8 p.m. on Sundays.
Don Vinduska, owner of D&J Liquor of Marion, told the commission he was not necessarily in favor of Sunday sales but understands the economic benefits to retailers.
"Lake people come in to town, wanting to buy beer," Vinduska said. He said of the local customers he had polled about being open on Sundays, the results were split about 50-50.
With prohibition lifted for Sunday alcohol sales, the ban on holiday sales also is lifted. Vinduska said the liquor store would be open three summer holidays — Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day — but probably wouldn't be for the others.
Vinduska added the store might be open on Sundays in the future but only if sales warranted it to remain viable.
Representatives from Casey's General Store and Ampride also were in attendance.
Deb Gray, manager of Casey's of Marion, requested the commission adopt the ordinance. Laura Legg of Ampride said Ampride was neutral. Both stores are open on Sundays.
Tice read a letter from Greg Carlson of Carlsons' Grocery who expressed support for the change.
Commissioner Jim Crofoot said he was not a proponent of additional drinking but wants to draw people to town to purchase other items besides alcohol on Sundays.
The change cannot be implemented until Nov. 15 per state statute.
Tice said the ordinance would be subject to petition by residents which would require the issue to be placed on a ballot for a vote.
An ordinance will be presented at a future commission meeting.
