Editor:
Re: Transit tax is a tough sell, Jan. 28
Delta South MLA Vicki Huntington has hit the head on the nail in noting Delta would only get the "crumbs" from this latest plan to raise money for the beleaguered TransLink entity.
From what I understand, the only improvement for South Delta is fixing the park and ride at the South Delta Recreation Centre. I question the necessity of this.
Would it not mean the implementation of parking fees? This would impact families that use the centre for children's programming and other adults that have had their fitness classes moved here from Winskill.
I hope that Delta and our mayor and council do not support the tax, especially with uncertainty around how the money would be spent and what the future brings regarding bridge tolls and/or road pricing.
These latter fundraising methods would impact the residents of South Delta unfairly as so many have no choice but to drive to their work or for appointments due to infrequent or inadequate transit services. The 602 and Canada Line are great if you work downtown and travel in peak hours, but that doesn't apply to many out here. Cycling isn't a viable option for too many either.
If Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson and Surrey Mayor Linda Hepner want increased transit, perhaps they could raise money from within their own communities and especially from developers that propose such high-density developments.
Jean Wightman
