Looking for new tax system for NC

The opinion section of The Charlotte Observer this week is running a series of perspectives on how the state can develop a tax plan for the 21st Century. Among the thoughts:

Sunday: In an introduction to the editorial series, Observer editorial writer Ed Williams makes the case that North Carolina's tax structure is outdated and needs to be upgraded to be relevant in the 21st Century. Notes Williams:

Our aim is to generate a conversation about the need for tax modernization that will inform the public and encourage policy makers to act.

We'll publish analyses of North Carolina's tax structure in comparison to other states', plus interviews with experts and essays from scholars, public policy wonks and political leaders about what the problems are and how to solve them. We'll offer our editorial board's recommendations.

This is a serious long-term problem for our state. Solving it requires the attention of serious people. Our goal is to focus that attention and push for action.

Also Sunday: Comparing N.C.'s taxes nationally, by The Tax Foundation

Tuesday: Keep taxes simple, by John Hood of the conservative John Locke Foundation.

Wednesday: Modernize the state's tax code and generate stability through equity, by Elaine Mejia of the N.C. Budget and Tax Center

Thursday: Expand the revenue base to capture taxes from new sources, by Ron Aycock, executive director of the N.C. Association of County Commissioners.

Friday's commentary will be by an N.C. State professor on remaking income, sales, property and gas taxes. More than likely, you can link to it Friday by clicking here.