That transit agencies in the area are in serious need of more money is no secret. State Rep. Marko Liias is to be commended for taking the lead on a solution (HB 1536). Unfortunately, being a good Democrat, his solution is to tax the public. I’d posit that the public is in no mood for another tax, for whatever reason.
Having actually read Mr. Liias’ proposed legislation, I find a glaring omission in the language. There is no specification for how the funds raised are to be used. Unfortunately, most public agencies have a deplorable record of misspending the public’s money.
The critical need is for operational funding. Current federal law requires grant money be used for capital expenditures only, i.e., buildings and equipment. Rather shortsighted, don’t you think? One needs funds to pay for drivers, mechanics and fuel in order to operate the buses. Better to contact Sens. Murray and Cantwell and Rep. Larsen and urge Congress to move such legislation forward immediately. There would be no extra money required. Only the addition of wording making a percentage of capital funds available for operations is necessary.
I urge state lawmakers to vote against this bill. We cannot afford yet another tax.
John Sainz
Everett
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