After a 3-2 vote, the Dora City Council passed a resolution Tuesday night to set a special election for a wet/dry vote on Tuesday, June 7 at Dora City Hall. Council members Nick Isbell, Donnie Burns and Hezikiah Walker voted for the resolution, while Kristie Tuggle and Clyde Nix voted against it.
Mayor Chris Edwards said Greg Williams, the city's attorney, warned the special election could be challenged.
"He said it could be appealed, but if we waited until the next general election, it would be one month before our city elections," Edwards said. "I think this was the best decision."
Tuggle said the cost of the special election, estimated at $6,000, and the fact it could be challenged was the reason for her "no" vote.
"I'm not for alcohol sales in our city, but this is something that has to be voted on because the petition has been turned in and certified," she said. "I voted against the special election, because I think the cost is too much considering that it will more than likely be challenged."
Edwards said the June election will give proponents and opponents of the measure more than 90 days to let their voices be heard.
"I think this is fair to both sides of the issue," he said. "This is quick, efficient government."
According to the resolution passed on Tuesday, Dora residents can register to vote until 30 days before the election. Polls will remain open on June 7 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The cost of the election will be paid out of the city's general fund.
In other action from the meeting, the Council:
*Voted to purchase a table and attend the annual Chamber of Commerce of Walker County luncheon on April 15. Gov. Robert Bentley will be the guest speaker.
*Approved the policy and procedures manual for the Dora Police Department with an effective date of April 1.
*Voted to move forward with a sidewalk grant project and asked Edwards to draw up a letter to the Dora Utility Board asking the group for financial assistance in matching the grant proposal.