Commissioners to Consider Countywide Alcohol Referendum for November Ballot

WHITEVILLE — Columbus County commissioners on Monday will decide whether voters should have the final say on expanding alcohol sales across the county, marking the first major step toward a countywide referendum that could reshape local business and dining options.

A resolution submitted by Commissioner Lavern Coleman asks the board to approve placing three alcohol‑sales questions on the November 3, 2026 ballot. If approved, the referendum would allow residents to vote on whether to permit:

• On‑premises and off‑premises sale of malt beverages
• On‑premises and off‑premises sale of unfortified wine
• Mixed‑beverage sales in hotels, restaurants, private clubs, community theatres, and convention centers

The proposal appears under Action Items on Monday’s agenda, signaling that commissioners will take a formal vote during the regular 6:30 p.m. session.

A Major Policy Shift for Columbus County

Currently, alcohol sales are allowed only inside municipal limits of the county’s incorporated towns. Unincorporated areas remain dry for beer, wine, and mixed beverages unless a business qualifies under narrow state exceptions.

If commissioners approve the resolution, the county’s Board of Elections would be instructed to place all three questions on the November ballot, giving voters the opportunity to decide whether to modernize countywide alcohol policy for the first time in more than two decades.

The last countywide alcohol referendum was held in 2003, when voters rejected expanded sales.

What Happens Next

If the board votes in favor Monday night:

• The referendum will be officially added to the November 3, 2026 ballot.
• County staff will begin preparing required public notices.
• Voters will ultimately determine whether alcohol sales expand beyond town limits.

If the resolution fails, alcohol rules in unincorporated Columbus County will remain unchanged.

The meeting will be held at the Columbus County Board of Commissioners chambers, 127 W. Webster Street in Whiteville.

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