"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
We're hearing more double-talk coming out of Raleigh.
Especially when it comes to the 163 Alcohol Beverage Control boards across the state.
These A-B-C boards run the liquor stores in North Carolina.
They are local government agencies operating under limited state authority.
We never heard much about them.
But reports suddenly emerged of lavish holiday parties, lucrative salaries and exorbitant raises for some administrators.
Governor Beverly Perdue's office issued a statewide probe.
She said the system was "outdated" and called for "more transparency and accountability."
Well, that's a good idea.
But last month she back-peddled...
When discussing the idea of privatization, she said, "I do not support this."
Now she says loosening government control of liquor sales would not be enough of a one-time cash infusion to make it worthwhile.
She's leaving the first move up to the legislature.
We still believe North Carolina's antiquated, government-controlled system of alcohol sales should be privatized.
Competition would lead to expanded choices and price benefits.
But the control of sales -- under a corrupt system, no less -- is no business of Raleigh.
Tell us what YOU think. SpeakOut@wbtv.com.
