[speedgibson] Speed Gibson: Public Hearing #8 - Metro Transit Fare Increase

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Posted by Speed Gibson:
Public Hearing #8 - Metro Transit Fare Increase
http://speedgibson.powerblogs.com/posts/1216176361.shtml


   I was at the first of the eight public hearings for raising Metro
   Transit fares, and also attended the last one tonight. Held at an
   apartment building in the Seward neighborhood near Cedar and Franklin,
   this was the only one of the eight held where the bus riders really
   are, when they can attend. You really can't count lunch hour sessions
   downtown.
   Turnout was much higher than the first meeting as a result, I would
   guess over 40 and it went 15 minutes over the scheduled one hour.
   About half spoke. In various ways, they spoke as one regarding the
   fare increase: No!
   Several had picked up on the fact that Metro Transit may have some
   reserve money from the Motor Vehicle Sales Tax (MVST) that could
   forestall the increase long enough for the 2009 Legislature to provide
   more money, assuming it would, of course. Others were well aware that
   this increase was going to happen regardless, simply making sure the
   Metro Transit representatives truly understood the effects.
   I was quite impressed with most of the arguments presented,
   disappointed by none. One had a good idea, to sell day passes. When we
   were in Florida in May, the local trolley/bus service had these for
   $3.50 and I used it three of those days. Here, I'd sell them for $5.
   Isn't the idea to be free of the car all day?
   At the risk of talking politics in July, Metro Transit could have
   handled this whole situation better, assuming it truly wanted any
   public input. No, I'm afraid the fix is in. Rail needs the money and
   will need much more when the Northstar Commuter and Central Corridor
   lines begin operation.