Marshall County votes to go wet, business owners to capitalize on alcohol sales

MARSHALL CO., Ala. (WAFF) – Marshall County voters have spoken. Alcohol sales will be permitted county-wide.

Many of the cities within the county like Guntersville, Boaz, Albertville, Arab and Grant have been considered “wet” for many years. However, this county-wide amendment which voters read on the 2024 ballot declares that all communities, including unincorporated ones, will benefit from alcohol sales.

Small business owners are rejoicing at the decision.

ReTreet Resort and Spa Owner Troy Hopkins says since opening in 2022, he has received loads of questions about spirits from guests.

“Every day we have guests that say ‘Where do I go to get my wine or my alcohol?’ Really, ten minutes down the road in each direction. They have to drive to get that and come back,” said Hopkins.

Hopkins and other staff at ReTreet have been proponents of Amendment One since their opening, hoping the legalization would help grow their business.

He said now, the resort can offer alcohol packages to guests, and play home to new opportunities and events for other businesses.

“Now we can attract more companies to come to us. That whole thing is extra revenue generation. It really brings extra tax money to the community for our schools and everything so it’s a win-win for everybody,” said Hopkins.

In preparation for the vote, Hopkins and his team have already taken some steps to get the ball rolling for serving spirits.

“We’ve actually built a bar that’s been sitting vacant for six months waiting for this to pass. It’s called the Leafy Lounge. Once we get all our licenses and permits, our guests can enjoy a drink while they check-in or come down for a meal and enjoy a drink,” said Hopkins.

Representative Brock Colvin took to social media on Election Day, explaining to voters that taxes from these sales will go toward the county’s general fund and the Marshall County Board of Education.

The county is set to form a personnel board to regulate these sales soon. The wet vote is expected to take full effect within the next few months.

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