August Ballot Issues in Christian County

An issue on the ballot in Ozark next month could be a moot point if the city keeps growing.

It's a liquor by the drink vote that would allow restaurants and other businesses to sell liquor with an alcohol content higher than five percent. There are a few businesses in town that do that because they have the necessary resort license, but they also have restrictions. At least 50 percent of the restaurant's total sales have to come from food or other merchandise, something other than liquor.

The question on the August 7^th ballot would lift those state restrictions so restaurants could sell liquor no matter how much food they sell.  But even if the issue fails, liquor by the drink will be a reality in Ozark when the population hits 19,500 people according to state laws.

"It's different for a city our size but we're just offering to the citizens if they want it fine.  If they don't, certainly very happy to do whatever they want to do."

Also in Christian County, Sparta's growing population of young families is helping boost the housing industry there, but those families also want some family friendly amenities.  Voters in Sparta will decide a special sales tax increase next month to pay for a new city park.