Bottoms Up in Chapin?

Chapin, S.C.  (WOLO)  —  If Chapin voters approve the sale of beer and wine in the small town, it will be a first in the municipality’s 126-year history.

That item is on the ballot for the first time in the town’s 126-year history. A ‘yes’ vote would approve the sale of beer and wine in grocery stores and other retail establishments as long as the alcohol is not consumed on the premises. The town administrator says the issue was never a concern in the past.

“We haven’t had an election in the last several years because candidates have run unopposed,” said town administrator, Adrienne Thompson.  “This year, we have an election.”

Sales of alcohol beverages in bars and restaurants, which are already allowed on Sunday, would be unaffected.

“It would only involved five to six stores since we are a small town. So, it’s not like it’s a windfall for the town or for the stores.  It’s a matter of convenience to the people.”

Of the 1,425 residents in town, 926 of them are registered voters, claims Thompson. The four we caught up with today, who do plan to go to the polls on the issue, are split down the middle.

“I think it will help revenue when people can buy beer here rather than go to Richland County.”

“I just believe it’s an individual’s rights [to be able to purchase beer and wine on Sunday]. Yes.”

“I think you should not buy beer and wine on Sunday.”

“I go to church. I know not everybody does, but there’s six days of the week you can do that.”

Town Hall will serve as the one voting precinct with six voting machines.