Irving to Vote on Beer, Alcohol Sales for Third Time

Similar measures failed to pass in 2004, 2006

Opponents of a measure that would legalize the sale of beer and alcohol in Irving stores are scrambling to get up more signs this weekend.

The overwhelming majority of signs outside Irving City Hall are in support of the bringing beer and wine sales to the city.

Tuesday's election is the third Irving alcohol election in four years. Similar measures failed in 2004 and 2006, but the margins of defeat kept getting smaller.

Supporters say Irving residents want the convenience and the sales tax money.

But opponents say too many stores that would sell beer and wine are clustered close together in south Irving.

When you start introducing that much alcohol into one area, it's going to deteriorate, or the city is going to have to spend so much money keeping it from deteriorating, it's going to offset any tax revenue that you get," said Pastor Dennis Webb, of the Irving Concerned Citizens Coalition.

Those opposed to beer and alcohol sales say support for the measure is mainly financed by out-of-town businesses that stand to make a lot of money in Irving but do not necessarily care about the city.

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