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RANDLEMAN, N.C. – Supporters of the sale of liquor by the drink in Randleman hope the third time's the charm.

The measure was voted down in 2001 and 2004, the last time by only 13 votes. Voters go to the polls again Tuesday.

Like many North Carolina communities, this town of about 4,000 has seen its textile tax base fade away over the years.

"We're scrambling around to find tax base so we can provide the services we want to provide to our citizens," said alderman Bud Tally.

While there's some new development on the outskirts of town and a bit of tourism from the Richard Petty museum, officials hope liquor by the drink will help spur development and capture some of the traffic from the nearby interstate.

"Really there's not even any motel once you leave Greensboro until you get to Asheboro," Talley said. "Really, there's no place to spend the night for travelers."

Alcohol can be a heated topic in small towns.

"We'll have to hire policemen to take care of the drunks and winos, and a lot of people that haven't drunk for a long time will be tempted," said alcohol opponent "Brother John" Gayton.

Gayton works at a company that distributes religious tracts.

"Of course I'm against it," he said.

Randleman's had an ABC store and off-premise sales since the 60s. But now voters will again face a decision on liquor by the drink and on-premise sales.

Officials put off-premise sales on the ballot to spur voter turnout. But there are some concerns a big anti-alcohol turnout could overturn beer sales allowed at grocery and convenience stores – which is why pro-alcohol signs say "save our jobs."

Pat York has worked at Charles Package and Grocery for around 15 years. She estimates about half the store's sales are from beer and wine.

"Most people who come in here, they're going to vote yes," said York. "Even people who don't drink say they're going to vote for it."

But the loss of sales, and possible new development, could send those folks elsewhere.

"Basically Randleman would be left holding an empty bag, and it would be difficult for us to every catch up," said Talley.

There are two precincts, at Randleman Elementary and Randleman Fire Department. The polls are open from 6:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m.