Living in the only county in the state currently defined as a dry county has motivated me, as an open minded citizen, to request that a local option liquor election is held. This election would provide us, the citizens of this county, the chance to review our status and potentially reverse to a wet county. Our status as a dry county has not only impacted our freedom to purchase and consume alcohol but also significantly affected the local economy. While the number might vary, several studies indicate that wet counties see higher employment and earn more in retail sales by 7% to 9% (source: University of Louisville's Urban Studies Institute’s research report, "The Economic Impact of Limited Alcohol Availability in Benton County"). With more revenue, our county has the potential to fund more public initiatives and ultimately enhance our quality of life. Recognizing the power in our collective voices, let us not let this inequality continue. Sign the petition to demand a local option liquor election and pave the way for change.