The Village of Dodson Town Council met on Tuesday, January 7, 2020, and the only topic discussed was a proposal to repeal section 53 of the current ordinances that prohibits the sale of alcohol within the city limits of Dodson.

The Dodson Town Hall was standing room only which is very unusual according to Village of Dodson Mayor, Richie Broomfield. “There’s usually no one here and it takes me longer to walk over here for the meeting than the meeting itself takes normally” stated Broomfield. The Town Council heard comments from several citizens present. Laura Land Broomfield, owner of the Panther Pit Stop addressed the Town Council in favor of repealing the current ordinance and allowing the sale of alcohol. “It’s incredibly hard for a local small business owner to compete with big stores like Walmart, being able to sell alcohol may help us stay in business” Laura stated as she stood to address the Town Council. Also, speaking in favor of repealing the current ordinance was Jimmy Dees. Two people present that spoke out against repealing the ordinance were Toby Boyett and Linda Hall who stood and gave an impassioned address regarding the dangers of allowing the sale of alcohol in the Village of Dodson. Several other people present expressed their thoughts and opinions on the ordinance. Aldermen, Gary Robertson and, Wyman Payne both stated that they do not support Ordinance 1 of 2020 which would repeal Ordinance 53 that prohibits the sale of alcohol inside the city limits of Dodson but, did not state how they would vote if a motion was made and seconded.

Village of Dodson Mayor, Richie Broomfield tabled the decision of the ordinance until the next council meeting due to the absence of one of the aldermen Karla Schivley. “This is too important of a matter to not have every alderman present to vote” stated Broomfield.

The Village of Dodson Town Council currently consists of Mayor, Richie Broomfield, Aldermen: Gary Robertson, Karla Shivley and, Wyman Payne.

The Winn Parish Journal will stream live the next council meeting set for Tuesday, February 4, 2020, at 5:30 PM.