Falkville approves alcohol sales by one-vote margin

Falkville, Alabama — Voters in Falkville approved a measure to permit alcohol sales after the referendum passed 116 to 115, a margin of one ballot, according to the report.

The narrow result reverses a 2010 vote on the same issue that failed by about 90 votes. The reporter said, "Literally just one vote made the difference." The town has a population of just over 1,000 people.

The report noted Falkville sits within Morgan County, which remains a dry county where alcohol sales are typically restricted, but Alabama law allows individual municipalities to set their own rules for alcohol sales. Nearby communities such as Hartselle and Decatur already permit alcohol sales.

Reactions from residents online were described as split: some commenters welcomed the potential revenue the change could bring, while others warned it could prompt sharp divisions in the community. The report did not specify any immediate changes to licensing timelines or local regulations tied to the vote.

The measure took effect subject to whatever local implementation steps the town council or licensing authority requires; the transcript did not specify an effective date or the next administrative steps.

The outcome highlights how narrowly decided local referendums can pivot municipal policy and underscores the impact of individual votes in small jurisdictions.