“I really believe that if we could vote to remove the HMR restrictions that our city would see new growth and economic benefits,” said Sarah Jacobs. “I just saw a hole in our community. All of our friends who like to do this go to Asheville or Morganton. I really believe it would help our community.”

Other people in the audience were there to show their support as well. They included McDowell Chamber of Commerce Director Steve Bush, Tegan Strautmann and Joey Sacco of Turtle Laboratories and Rachel Withrow of the Crooked Door Coffee House.

“No one is going to downtown Marion,” said Myers. “We’ve got to change that.”

Jacob Blair, one of Withrow’s employees and a craft beer enthusiast, voiced his strong support as well.

Councilwoman Juanita Doggett said she was happy to see the support of not only local business owners but younger adults who want to make Marion more vibrant and exciting.

“It’s great to see the younger people here come to support this,” said Doggett. “We need to tap into our younger people.”

After hearing this request, the City Council voted unanimously to ask for a public vote that will allow the full on-premise sale of beer and wine in Marion. This action also drew applause from the audience.