CBS 19 - The Eye of East Texas News - Winona vote ends with wet result

Winona vote ends with wet result

By Amanda Kost

WINONA, TX (KYTX) - Voters in Winona have chosen to create the first alcohol jurisdiction in Smith County in 70 years.  

"This has been my home all my life," said Sheila Slagle.  So, it's safe to say Sheila Slagle is pretty passionate about what goes on in Winona.

With the town's dry status on the ballot, Slagle headed to the polls.  "I made sure my boys have already been down here and I'm here as soon as I get off work," added Slagle.

Her vote, "No, I want it dry. Keep it dry we don't need alcohol. We don't need all the complications that come with alcohol," explained Slagle.

"I think everybody, they're worried about things that aren't going to happen," said Billy Chaney.  You don't have to look past Billy Chaney's yard to see where he stands.

"I voted early,For," said Chaney.  The way he sees it, alcohol sales would bring an economic boost.  "I care about the town. The town needs something and this is the opportunity for the town to prosper and grow," explained Chaney.  "I don't want to see it come in our neighborhood," stated Slagle.  But when the votes were counted the majority of Winona residents wanted to see the town turn wet.

"Betrayed because I believe the majority of people that live in Winona don't want it," said Slagle.

With this election comes change that the Winona City Council is ready for.  City leaders outlined all the logistics that come with bringing alcohol into the city.

The Proposition was approved 54 percent to 46 percent.   230 ballots were cast.