As the debate over the economic future of Mesquite continues...
7-31/07 - As the debate over the economic future of Mesquite continues, the challenge that faces our town seems to be too much for some to stomach.
The endeavor brings about opposition from citizens that are concerned about how retail beer and wine sales being allowed in Mesquite will effect the community.
A group has formed an organization called Save Our Community, this group offers an opposing view to that of the similarly named group with an opposite goal, Save our Stores, the group that wishes to bring the choice of purchasing alcohol for off-site consumption to the people of Mesquite. The group will also operate under the name: Yes to kids No to Alcohol Sales.
Opposition to the propositions championed by Save Our Stores, to allow retail sales of alcohol beverages and the elimination of the unicard system, has brought concerns from citizens and some local Churches about how retail beer and wine sales being allowed in Mesquite will effect the community in which we all live in.
I think Save Our Community has its heart in the right place; it wants to protect the people of Mesquite from what they believe will be a negative and potentially harmful effect on our town if the measure passes. But letting our economy continue to suffer can have equally if not more harmful effects.
We must not let fear of what may come from allowing alcohol to be sold, keep us from doing what is best for our local economy. This proposal needs to be approved by the voters. Without the tax revenue that would be generated by alcohol sales, our town's economy will continue to lose ground against neighboring communities that already allow retail beer & wine sales.
The citizens of Mesquite are smart enough to know what needs to be done to keep our business community strong and healthy. This proposal is about economic development, not beer and wine.
So when election day comes, we should all vote yes.
Sincerely,
Sergio Garcia
http://mesquitelion.com