As national election results project across screens in Court Street bars, Athens residents also celebrate the passing of five county tax levies and ballot issues.
Ward 3 Precinct 1 voters affirmed permission for Union Street Market, located at 26 W. Union St., to sell hard liquor Sundays.
A popular spot for Uptown visitors, Athens locals support the store selling hard liquor seven days a week. The permission passed with 93.04% of voters in favor.
Ishmael Young, a junior studying communication and an employee at Union Street Market, predicts hard liquor will be stocked and available Sundays beginning after New Years.
A replacement tax levy and increase regarding Athens County’s library system also passed county-wide.
According to a previous report by The Post, Nick Tepe, the director of Athens County Libraries, said this money will help upkeep the organization’s provided services.
Locals recognize the importance of a library and its services along with the importance of renewing a levy.
“The library does a lot more than just provide books for people,” Chris Chmiel, an Athens County commissioner, said.
Chmiel is hopeful the passing of the library levy will also go toward supporting its social work program and a new branch developing in neighboring areas.
Kathy Hecht, •Athens city auditor, defends the tax increases the levies will bring.
•“It’s hard sometimes for people to add to their taxes but services cost money,” Hecht said. “These are all things (locals) want. We want everybody to have access to libraries and Meals on Wheels and tuberculosis (care).”
