About Franklin, NC ABC Board

History, board members, and mission of the Franklin, NC ABC Board serving Macon County since 1994.

The Franklin ABC Board is a local political subdivision of the State of North Carolina, operating as a separate entity overseen by a board of directors. We serve the Town of Franklin and Macon County from our location in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina, with an elevation range of 1,900–5,500 feet.

Our Goal: To enhance the quality of life in and around Franklin and Macon County through effective enforcement of the liquor laws of the State of North Carolina, while maximizing revenues through responsible alcohol sales.

State History

In 1937 the State of North Carolina created a uniform system of controlling and regulating the sale of distilled spirits. A State Board of Control — the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission — was established to oversee the issuance of alcohol permits, tax guidelines, product selection, and uniform prices throughout the state.

No ABC Store shall be owned or operated by the state, and no state funds are used to support local ABC boards. Each city or county may vote on establishing their own store.

Local History

On August 2, 1994, a referendum was passed by the citizens of the Town of Franklin to allow the off-premises sale of beer and wine, as well as the opening of an ABC Store. Franklin ABC opened its doors for the first day of retail sales on November 25, 1994.

On July 25, 2006, a referendum was passed to allow the on-premises sale of malt beverages by Class A hotels, motels, and restaurants, as well as the sale of mixed beverages in hotels, restaurants, private clubs, community theaters, and convention centers.

Election Results

ABC Store Election — Authorized by GS 18B-600(d) Referendum: August 2, 1994 · For: 631 · Against: 573

Mixed Beverage Election — Authorized by GS 18B-600(e) Referendum: July 25, 2006 · For: 443 · Against: 342

Board of Directors

ABC Board

  • Rhonda Tallent, Chair
  • Bill Duffell, Member
  • Rocky Pattillo, Member
  • Alton Sutton, Member
  • Don Willis, Member

Franklin Town Council

  • Stacy Guffey, Mayor
  • Jeff Berry, Member
  • Joe Collins, Member
  • Travis Higdon, Member
  • Mike Lewis, Member
  • Rita Salain, Member
  • Robbie Tompa, Member

Law Enforcement

  • Chief Devin Holland, Franklin Police Department