If you still have not decided to weigh in on the Light rail issue at the city council meeting starting at 6Pm June 30, read on
At the first Neighborhood Forum, Council Member and C-Tran Board Chairman Tim Leavitt told those present that Clark County taxpayer would not have to pay any of the construction cost because the Federal Government has $750 million dollars already set aside for the project.
Since then we have seen numerous article in both the Columbian and Oregonian stating that not only may there not be $750 Million dollars, but it is doubtful if our Light Rail the Gravy Train gets any construction money at all. There are a lot of city with their hands out for that $750 million dollars.
Clarifying his statement, Mr. Leavitt states in his email to me that There are too many if's to get excited about Clark County Light Rail, that the design work is still in the conceptual stage, and their is no idea of construction cost. That if we don't get the 750 million dollars the Ctran board will not ask the C-Tran voters (is that all or just those that Commissioner Stuart referred to) to support capital construction. I assume that as the chair of that Board he will also vote not to ask the voter for HCT construction funds.
Are you confused yet. I am. Why are the politicians rushing to judgment before we are made aware of all the facts are in.
He also states that others like the Vancouver City Council may ask the city residents if they will pay for HCT construction funds.
It would be interesting to know how CTran Chair Leavitt will vote if CTRAN votes not to tax CTran Voter and how Councilmember Leavitt will vote if the Vancouver City Council Votes Yes to tax City
Residents for HTC construction.
I am confused about Leavitt's comments that we are still in the conceptual stage and the project may be in jeopardy. If any of this is true why the hell are spending all this money if there are still a lot of if's. Lets put all the ifs on the table for the Voters to sort out.
Please read the attached Email and then come to the council chambers June 30th at 6 pm and let your voice be heard.
L. M. Patella
CDR USN (ret)