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As one for many years I can attest they are a terrible waste of money and ineffective and boring dog-and-pony shows. Their recommendations are seldom given "great weight".

2. Tighten ABC Rules.

DC's ABRA is a perfect example of regulatory capture. Compare Arlington and Montgomery counties to DC and it's obvious DC's liquor licensing is out of control.

3. Better Distinguish "Cafes" from "Bars"

Few people oppose unlimited legitimate restaurant liquor licences. But in DC they often drop food and become nightclubs. The public does have an interest in regulating placement of nightclubs. They can disturb residents and create daytime "deadspace" in business areas. Encourage nightclubs in 2nd floors, basements and industrial areas and discourage them on prime business street frontage.

4. Allow 24-hour liquor service

The 3am Thundering Herd is what disturbs residents and police most. Throwing all drinkers out on the streets (and to their cars) at the same time is a disaster.

5. Get more tax revenue

Yes we need the $ but anyone familiar with the problem of taxing cash transactions knows that much is untaxed. Place the weight of the tax on a higher sales tax on liquor sold by establishments and lessen dependency on voluntary reporting.

by Tom Coumaris on Dec 1, 2010 11:00 am • link • report