Yes it is me, long time pack reader - but 3 time poster.
Honestly, the ABC never gave us a reason, we do know that they voted on it, it was denied, and then they decided to reconsider the matter, that is why no official statement was offered, because technically, once they reconsidered their "nay" vote, the issue was still on the table.
We were tentatively told that our DUI rate, the recent happenings in downtown (purse snatching, etc.), and the fact that it was a split vote were all considered. Roy Perkins also wrote a letter that was received and printed in the Daily News. Of course I believe that all of the above should have no bearing on the decision and I think once they reconsider the matter and the fact that multiple other towns in Mississippi are considering coming into the 19th century, they knew that a more proactive stance was needed.
I commend the ABC for reconsidering and ultimately listening to the Citizens of Starkville.
Thanks for the support and I look forward to an exciting 4 years.