Frank Bucholtz is the editor of the Langley Times. His full editorial can be found here.
I’m not sure that a vote is as bad an idea as the critics say. … If there is a referendum on TransLink tax options, it could likely drive up the turnout in the municipal elections – which would be a positive step.
I don’t agree with (Mayor Dianne) Watts that people north of the Fraser would vote in droves against measures that would help Surrey. I think those who favour transit, and there are many spread throughout the region, would favour reasonable taxes that would lead to better service.
A road-pricing scheme would be among one of the fairest ways to raise TransLink funds, as it would take the burden of paying for Highway 1 improvements away from just those who cross the Port Mann Bridge.
All the others who use the new road west of the bridge don’t pay for it.
No matter who wins the provincial election, the referendum idea is one worth looking at in more detail.
Of interest:
“Mississauga says ‘yes’ to most transit tax options, and fie on Ford
…
Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion and her council colleagues had some strong words for Toronto on the issue of transit funding: Don’t expect the “905” to subsidize the “416.” ”
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/2013/04/24/mississauga_says_yes_to_most_transit_tax_options_and_fie_on_ford.html