Can’t add much to what The Watauga Democrat has to say about the gas tax hike and the state of North Carolina’s roads:

First, there needs to be integrity to the system. Money collected by users of the highways through the gasoline tax, registration fees, vehicle licensing, etc., should be used only on highway needs. Period. No exceptions.

Second, all special-interest exemptions for heavy trucks that accelerates the deterioration of our roads should be repealed. Immediately.

Third, the Department of Transportation, the legislature and the Governor need to develop an aggressive plan to address the state’s highway woes based on where the need is greatest, not where it is politically popular. Surely a formula, modeled on those used in other states, can be developed and implemented before the public outcry becomes louder.

The General Assembly has raided the Highway Trust Fund for millions and millions of dollars over the years. It has to stop. Plus the reign of the Down East mafia must come to an end. No more roads for future “development” — build roads where the damn people already are.