Philly councilman predicts ‘rough ride’ for Corbett budget plan

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett’s proposed budget has gotten a frosty reception from at least one member of Philadelphia City Council.

 

Councilman Curtis Jones says he believes part of the proposal, Corbett’s plan to privatize the state liquor stores, could be bad for Philadelphia. He says it would kill off well-paying jobs and make liquor more widely available.

“The proliferation of more alcohol in the inner cities is just what we need in a time when we have increased violence, just pour some booze on it and maybe it will go away,” Jones said sarcastically.

Jones says he believes Corbett will have problems pushing this budget through the state Legislature.

“I think he has problems with the Democrats and even people in his own party. His lack of commitment with infrastructure repair is a sore spot.

“Some of his past stances on higher education, which in some of the outer counties is the big business of the town,” said Jones. “He may be in for a rough ride.”

Corbett says government has no place in the alcohol business. He says he could raise $1 billion for education by selling licenses to those who would replace Pennsylvania’s wine and liquor stores.