Beer and wine in Morton grocery stores is now a reality.

Monday night, the village board voted four to two in favor of alcohol sales in town grocery stores.

Morton residents in opposition to the liquor sales expansion dominated the village board meeting.

In the conservative village of Morton, many residents were disappointed in the board's decision to approve beer and wine sales in grocery stores.

In the board meeting, over a dozen residents got up to voice their concerns about alcohol sales in Morton grocery stores.

"I don't want to see our kids go through what Pekin High has gone through".

Besides the effect some believe increased liquor sales will have on young people, others say the new liquor law robs Morton of its uniqueness.

"It does affect the moral fiber of the city when you allow alcohol to be more predominant, to be more available," said grocery store owner Barney Monroe.

"I do not think it truly reflects the value and character of Morton," said resident Dan Acton.

But overall, many in attendance say they did not appreciate how the decision was made.

"I just feel like the community didn't have enough time to think this through, and decide yes this is what we want," said resident Sandy Rassi.

And Acton says this is something he will remember when it's time to fill out a ballot.

"That's what they're entitled to do, we have elected them.
Perhaps it's time to elect a different board."

Before the decision was made , two board members suggested the matter be put on a November ballot to be voted on by the public,
but those in favor of that were out voted four to three.