If supporters gather enough valid signatures, the petition seeking a countywide liquor referendum will be submitted to the Pearl River County Board of Supervisors for verification before a countywide election can be called. (RHCJC News)Pearl River County residents are collecting signatures to place a countywide liquor referendum on the ballot, giving voters the opportunity to decide whether to allow the sale, distribution and manufacture of alcoholic beverages in the county. Under Mississippi law, supporters must gather signatures from at least 20% of the county’s qualified electors, or 1,500 qualified electors, whichever is less, before submitting the petition to the Pearl River County Board of Supervisors. The last countywide liquor referendum was held in November 2006, when voters rejected allowing liquor sales. Organizers have circulated petitions at 26 grocery stores, convenience stores, restaurants and gas stations throughout Pearl River County.