October
5, 2000
Olympia
-- In April, Governor Gary Locke appointed a “Retail Liquor Sales Task Force” to explore efficiencies within Washington state’s retail system, and to examine various options for improving retail liquor sales operations, including privatization.
The 18-member citizen task force will hold public hearings in Spokane and SeaTac to gather public input, and then provide recommendations that are due to the Governor December 1, 2000.
October 16, 2000
Spokane
Public Library
906
West Main Avenue
2:00
– 4:00 p.m.
6:00
– 8:00 p.m.
|
October 18, 2000
Radisson
Hotel SeaTac
17001
Pacific Highway South
2:00
– 4:00 p.m.
6:00
– 8:00 p.m.
|
The purpose of these public hearings is to give the public an opportunity to comment on the advantages and drawbacks of the state liquor retail system and possible changes to the existing system, including privatization. Some issues to be considered include:
- The prevention of alcohol misuse and abuse.
- The impact on public health and safety.
- The revenue generated for the state and local governments.
Background
In Washington state, 100 percent of the retail spirits (hard liquor) sales and approximately 10 percent of the retail wine sales are made through the 158 state-run liquor stores and 160 independent contract stores in smaller communities. In fiscal year 1999, this resulted in gross liquor sales of nearly $444,945,000 million. After expenses and other charges, $101,700,000 million was distributed to the state general fund, $39,000,000 million to cities and counties, and $53,000,000 million to public health and safety programs.
|
