Local stores seek voter approval on Sunday sales

Jackie Valley

Two Kent convenience stores want to sell beer on Sundays. But it’s up to the area residents to grant approval on the November ballot.

The Circle K gas station and convenience store on North Mantua Street and the Speedway SuperAmerica on state Route 59 in Kent both need majority approval of voters in their precincts to receive the alcohol permits.

Only residents in Precinct C of Ward 1 can vote on Issue 7 regarding Circle K, and only residents in Precinct B of Ward 2 can vote on Issue 8 for Speedway SuperAmerica.

Representatives from Speedway SuperAmerica declined to comment on the ballot issue, and representatives from Circle K could not be reached for comment via phone or in person.

According to records from the Ohio Division of Liquor Control, Circle K and Speedway SuperAmerica both already have two alcohol permits, allowing the sale of beer, wine and certain prepackaged mixed drinks in sealed containers for carry out only.

Public Safety Director Bill Lillich said he cannot remember an instance when a ballot issue seeking the approval of an alcohol permit did not pass in Kent.

Three other establishments in Portage County are also seeking alcohol permits on the November ballot:

– Issue 13 – The American Legion Post 685 and Cocktail Lounge in Streetsboro wants to sell wine, mixed beverages and spirituous liquor on Sundays. Residents in Precinct C of Ward 2 in Streetsboro can vote on the issue.

– Issue 16 – The Hideaway in Windham Village wants to sell beer on Sundays. Residents in Precinct A of the village can vote on the issue.

– Issue 20 – The Wal-Mart Supercenter in Brimfield Township wants to sell wine and mixed beverages on Sundays. Residents in Precinct E of Brimfield Township can vote on the issue.

Contact public affairs reporter Jackie Valley at [email protected].