JOHNSTON COUNTY, N.C. — Wilson's Mills is a dry town, meaning beer and wine sales are not allowed, but that may change in a July referendum.

Some Johnston County residents believe the ban should stay in place.

"I feel it's a bad idea because it will only promote more crime in this area," pastor Jeffrey Windley said.

Others do not agree. Jeff Constello believes the ban on beer and wine sales is outdated.

"I mean you should still have the right to choose, what you want to do, what you don't want to do and what you want to say," he said.

Wilson's Mills is just off a busy Highway 70 with plenty of traffic, including tourists heading to the beach.

Councilman Kenneth Jones said lifting the ban could draw much-needed businesses to the area.

"It's a matter of economics," councilman Kenneth Jones said.

"We've been trying to get a food store for the last several years. One of the first things they ask is about beer and wine sales. That's a big revenue pull for grocery stores."

Jones has been selling the idea to business owners like Roger Callis. He opened a BBQ restaurant in Wilson's Mills 1½ years ago.

"We were talking and he said they'll get beer, and then come over and get barbecue. We'll see," Callis said.

It is the second time in four years Wilson's Mills will vote on lifting the ban on beer and wine sales. A similar vote in 2001 failed due to a tie.