Community Organizing

Kentucky Community Shapes Local Alcohol Laws

When the residents of Calvert City, Kentucky, passed a referendum allowing restaurants to sell alcohol by the drink in November 2004, they thought that was the end of the matter. But by early 2005 there was a growing disagreement about when and how alcohol should be sold in the community.

Following the November elections, City Council members proposed that restaurants be allowed to sell alcohol until 2 a.m. and on Sundays. Concerned community residents, like Reverend Lance Cordle of the Church of Christ in Calvert City, were upset with what they saw as an unlicensed expansion of alcohol sales. “Many people who voted ‘Yes’ on the original referendum don’t like how it’s playing out,” said Rev. Cordle. “They don’t feel comfortable with alcohol being sold until 2 a.m. and on Sundays.”

In response to growing concerns, key community leaders mobilized residents, distributed petitions, provided testimony at council meetings, and put the pressure on Council members to listen to public comments. City Council members, realizing that the opposition to Sunday and late night sales was strong, voted to allow sales only during regular restaurant hours, Monday through Saturday. Calvert City residents were thrilled with the victory. “As a result of the action taken by community members, we were able to help shape city law,” notes Rev. Cordle. “I know our city will be better for it.