COLUMBUS, Ga. (AP) -- A referendum to legalize Sunday alcohol sales in Columbus has met opposition from an unexpected source: liquor stores.

Ralph Smith, the owner of Mr. B's liquor store, says he isn't convinced he'd generate enough new sales to offset the costs of opening his shop seven days a week instead of six.

He says he wouldn't be able to close up shop, either, because he'd have to stay open to compete with other stores opening a seventh day.

Christian groups are also opposing the referendum that would allow the Columbus City Council to OK Sunday sales. They call it an issue of public safety.

However, a group that represents Georgia convenience stores says allowing Sunday liquor sales could help keep customers in the state, rather than traveling to nearby Alabama on Sundays.