Fayette is getting a new liquor store. Ma’s Discount Hooch is in the final stages of preparation on West Morrison St., across from the Fayette Post Office. Although an official opening day has not been set, owner Jeff Parks said the store will be open on July 4.

Parks, who lives in Chariton County, is the owner of several rental properties in Fayette. He bought the historic building in 2014 from the estate of the late Bobby Robb, with the intent to rent out the upstairs apartments. He wanted to open a business on the ground floor and thought a liquor store would be a sustainable business here. “I think the market could support it here in Fayette,” Parks said.

Fayette has not had a dedicated liquor store since the Village Place closed its doors more than a decade ago.

Ma’s Discount Hooch will sell beer, liquor, and wine, along with cigarettes, fountain drinks, lottery tickets, and other standard fare. Parks said the hours of operation are not yet finalized, but he hopes the business will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Rachel Hawkins will manage the store. Parks said he has at least one position to fill.

Parks, and a friend, George Keeting, have been restoring the building, which dates back to at least the early 1900s. The building now has all new plumbing, wiring, and ductwork. They have refurbished the interior mostly with reclaimed materials from barns and other old buildings. Coolers may look familiar, having previously been used in the now-closed Riverview Liquors in Glasgow. The store will also sport a beer cave.