Enough signatures have been gathered in Thorsby to allow a vote to determine whether alcohol can be sold within the town.

Signatures of 183 registered voters who voted in the last municipal election have been collected, pending certification of the town clerk. Actually 653 names were gathered, but not everyone who signed the petition lived in Thorsby or voted in the last election.

The referendum will be placed on next June’s primary ballot.

The number of signatures needed for a wet/dry referendum must equal at least 30 percent of the number of voters who participated in the town’s last election. According to numbers from the 2008 municipal election, Thorsby voters cast 528 ballots, meaning that 159 signatures were needed.

Multiple council members said despite personal opinions, voters have the right to make the ultimate decision about selling alcohol in Thorsby.

“They (voters) deserve the right to make that decision,” said Councilman Marvin Crumpton.

“That’s what America was founded on,” Councilwoman Tara Jewell added.

Council members also pointed out the large percentage of people who were disqualified from the petition and encouraged residents to register to vote and exercise that right.

Last month, the Jemison City Council approved a resolution to have a wet/dry election Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010.