PA LCB chief Joe Conti to retire, but serve as consultant

(Harrisburg) -- The chief executive officer of the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board plans to retire next week, but he'll return as an $80-an-hour consultant.

Joe Conti will retire February 1st. But, he'll be back under a state law that allows former employees to return on an emergency basis while collecting their pensions.

The board says the arrangement will allow it to continue benefiting from Conti's experience and expertise. The Philadelphia Inquirer says Conti declined to comment.

Governor Corbett has said he wants to abolish the CEO position as part of his plan to privatize wine and liquor sales.

The board also is contending with the state inspector general's allegations that Conti and other top officials improperly accepted gifts and favors from vendors.