"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
"Outdated and in need of modernization."
That's how Governor Bev Perdue recently described the patch-work system of 163 Alcohol Beverage Control boards operating across the state.
These ABC boards, which run the liquor stores in North Carolina, are local government agencies operating under limited state authority.
Recent reports of lavish holiday parties, lucrative salaries and exorbitant raises for some administrators have resulted in a statewide probe.
Perdue, a former board member herself from Down-east, is calling for "more transparency and accountability." That would be a good first step.
But in the end, we believe it's time North Carolina's antiquated, government-controlled system of alcohol sales is replaced by private enterprise. By doing so, competition would lead to expanded choices and perhaps lower prices.
While this idea has traction in Raleigh, you can be sure there'll be a fight over proposed changes. Local governments might stand in the way for fear of losing direct revenue.
But privatization works in 32 other states, where local sales taxes stay in the community and states get their share by taxing every bottle sold.
Enforcement of alcohol possession and consumption laws should remain with the state.
But the control of sales….under a system wide open for corruption and layered with bureaucracy…is no business for Raleigh.
Because WBTV is "On Your Side," we encourage everyone to "Speak Out" – tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
