Booze News

Outgoing LCB Chief to Get the Last Laugh

Still in business.
Still in business.

Though he resigned amid allegations that he abused his power, accepted gifts and favors, and pressed Stephen Starr to hire his daughter and brother, in the end it looks like embattled Liquor Control Board CEO Joseph Conti will get the last laugh. Sure, he’s out at as the top dog of the state’s booze board, but according to this morning’s Inky, after stepping down next week, Conti will come back as a consultant. And he will be compensated. Generously. As in more than $80 an hour, generously! And that’s in addition to collecting full pension benefits, which he’s totally eligible to receive. It’s all legit. Much to the chagrin of Governor Tom Corbett, who campaigned on the promises of eliminating the LCB and reeling in unnecessary spending, the state’s Office of Administration has already approved Conti’s return. Surely this is just the first of many bumps on the privatization road that lies ahead. [Inquirer]

Outgoing LCB Chief to Get the Last Laugh