Regarding Everett Transit Proposition One: The article The Herald ran on Aug. 21 is quite accurate, but it is not the whole story (“Transit cuts could hit disabled the hardest”). Everett has a great asset in its transit department, especially with new areas that are opening up for new business to invest in. With the city of Everett in direct control of its transit, planners can change schedules, routes and service hours without a great deal of effort, but to do this takes money and is part of the reason for asking for a three-tenths of cent increase.
If the sales tax does not pass, then what happens? With further cutbacks transit becomes ineffective and will not be able to serve or respond to needs of its citizens or the future growth of Everett, as it would like. Then the City Council would have to decide the future of the transit department – just let it slowly disappear or let another transit agency provide the service for Everett. Then how much influence would Everett have with that transit agency? If Everett came under the authority of another transit agency, there might be an increase on the board of directors for another seat, but that would only be one of many. Then what about the existing tax money that Everett receives now? Who gets it and would it all stay in Everett? Who knows?
One thing is for sure, if you pass the three-tenths of a percent sales tax increase Everett Transit is asking for, that tax money stays in Everett, no doubt about that, and previous service levels can be restored. Citizens of Everett, take a real good look at your transit department; Everett Transit is a diamond in the rough. Polish it up and make it shine. It is worth every penny invested in it.
Pat Connelly
Everett
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