EFI to replace Edelbrock carb

Eddies are junk? Get a Carter? Uh... they're the same carb, basically.
For a reliable, "running around" car, stick with a carb. I've been down the TBI/EFI road, was really nice- when it worked. Went back to carb, for the exact reasons already mentioned- parts availability.
Carbs (and I'm a Carter/Eddy man myself, nothing against Holleys, Carter/Eddy just suits my style better) have always worked well in the proper application, and will continue to do so today. Read up or find someone who is comfortable with your brand carb and get it tuned right (local car clubs are great for personal knowledge or recommendations) and never look back.
The guy you took it to doesn't sound like a mechanic; he sounds like a "parts replacer". The secondaries "looked wet"? Really? Ever think of adjusting a float height or replacing a gasket, or just do some basic diagnostics? No, let's just throw a different carb at it, or better yet, slap a whole EFI system on it (we can REALLY make some money there!).
Find a GOOD local guy, they're out there.