CHANDLER (KYTX) - The group "Buy Chandler First" says if Smith County goes wet, Chandler will lose out on that tax revenue. The signs are up as soon as you hit Chandler city limits encouraging people to vote for or against the sale of alcohol.
Members of the community formed "Buy Chandler First" when they found out about the Tyler/Smith County alcohol vote. Ben Delmonico is a committee member.
"Chandler could be at a financial disadvantage if our effort is not approved and it passes in Tyler. We want to keep our money in our beautiful community here."
Joann Selman voted for it.
"I think it will be better for our economy and revenue for our city." she says.
But, Daniel Cooper worries about possible consequences.
"I've seen other places that sell alcohol and it seems like the quality of living goes down. So, I'm going to vote no." he says.
Faith Baptist Church Pastor Rick Gray is fighting the proposal.
"They're telling us if we do this, we will get more business. It's a hollow promise. They can't guarantee more business." says Gray.
Advertising for the "vote no" signs came from Faith Baptist Church in Chandler, while in fine print on the "vote for" signs, it says they've been paid for by Texas Petition Strategies- hired by "Buy Chandler First."
That business is located in Arlington.
"I just find it strange that they're wanting people to keep their dollars at home, yet they take their money and spend it out of town." says Gray.
But, those with Buy Chandler say their main point is to keep sales tax dollars in Chandler, and they hope voters agree.
Delominco with "Buy Chandler First" says although the Chamber of Commerce supports both alcohol propositions, the committee is not funded by the chamber.
And, Pastor Gray says money for his opposition signs came from community and church member donations- not actual church funds.
You can cast your vote for or against the alcohol propositions at Chandler City Hall. It's open from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
