One issue on the ballot for Irving is a proposal to allow sales of beer and wine in Irving. This issue has been on the ballot twice over the last few years, losing by a large margin in 2004 and only a small margin in 2006. This time I believe it will pass because of the large voter turnout for the presidential election. The main area of concern is South Irving, the older section of town which has become lower-income and more run-down over the last couple of decades. Many residents consider most of the areas south of 183 to be in decline and fear that allowing alcohol sales in convenience stores, grocery stores, and liquor stores will only make things worse, leading to higher crime and further deterioration. Proponents of the bill argue that since alcohol is already available in nearby cities, those who want to drink will get their alcohol one way or another. Allowing sales in Irving would have little negative impact while making it easier for responsible drinkers who want to buy their beer or wine in Irving instead of driving to another city.

Right now, Jenny and I plan to vote YES because we want to be able to pick up a bottle of wine at the grocery store, just like we did in Euless and Keller/Watauga. South Irving is going downhill for a variety of reasons, including drugs, illegal immigration, and lax code enforcement. Putting beer and wine in the 7-11s won’t help the situation, but isn’t going to make that big of a difference, either.