Carolina Journal News Reports
CJ Series

Six Simple Tools

Reforming state government in North Carolina is a monumental task, but the first step to accomplishing it is to break the problems down into smaller, bite-sized ones. This series presents the basics on how to make government smaller, taxes lower, schools better, neighborhoods safer, travel faster, and our freedom greater.

(7.17.06) Playing 'Treasure Hunters' in Public Policy
For those interested in North Carolina politics and public policy, there is a far easier version of the TV game “Treasure Hunters” available now in the comfort of your own home.


(12.09.05) Fixing Up NC School Construction
NC school districts project school-construction needs in the many billions of dollars over the next decade. Here are six simple tools for reducing the cost to taxpayers.


(2.17.05) For Whom the Roads Toll
The toll road fix for traffic congestion will get its most serious look yet. It is a chance for the region to break free of the failed transportation models of the past.


(12.23.04) Six Simple Tools for Getting NC Moving
Transportation issues are among the most critical ones facing North Carolina. Here are six key recommendations for getting the most bang for the taxpayers' buck in transportation.


(9.29.04) Six Simple Tools for Improving Politics
Never mind the conventional wisdom about negative politics and campaign finance. Real improvement in our political dialogue will require shifting attention elsewhere.


(9.22.04) Six Simple Tools for Cutting Your Taxes
It is apparent that North Carolina's tax burden is a major issue in the 2004 elections. Here are some basic principles policymakers should follow in reforming and reducing taxes.


(9.21.04) Six Simple Tools for Shrinking State Government
State government is too big and costs too much. A good starting point would be to follow these six strategies for cutting the state budget by more than $1.2 billion.