Smithville, your voice just got silenced. Three City Council members—Shawn Jacobs, Beth Chandler and Don Crook—voted against letting you speak on whether downtown restaurants should sell beer. That’s right—not against beer sales, but against your right to have a say.

What’s the Big Deal?

Smithville isn’t a dry county. Restaurants can already serve high-gravity beer and liquor, but they can’t sell a simple cold beer with your meal. Instead, customers bring their own, which means businesses lose money, and the city loses tax revenue that could fund schools and roads.

The Beer Board unanimously said yes, but three council members shut it down before the public could weigh in. Meanwhile, the same council had no problem approving those unpopular speeding cameras—for tax revenue.

Why It Matters

·         Lost Revenue: Money that could improve Smithville is walking out the door.

·         Hurting Businesses: Local restaurants are missing out.

·         Inconsistent Policies: They’re picking and choosing when tax revenue matters.

·         Your Voice, Ignored: If they silence you on this, what’s next?

What Can You Do?

·         Call or email City Council. Tell them you want a say.

·         Show up at meetings. Numbers matter.

·         Support local restaurants. Let them know you’ve got their back.

·         Remember this vote. Elections are coming—hold them accountable.

This isn’t just about beer. It’s about fairness, transparency, and your right to be heard. Don’t let three people decide for all of Smithville. Speak up!

The views expressed in this opinion article are those of its author and not necessarily those of the Smithville Review or its staff.