KC Light Rail

Your source for news and information on Kansas City’s light rail progress

The Task Force Letter

The Kansas City Post has the letter from some members of the Light Rail Task Force decrying the process and what little political support they've received. Our favorite quote is the reference to members of the Task Force who don't want light rail in the first place. Sad indeed. Even worse is that this task force followed one that expertly managed to hammer out the city's economic development policy (televised meetings, media coverage, regular council updates, etc.). Granted, the Chastain vote, subsequent council repeal, and lawsuits muddied the waters quite a bit… still no excuse for transparency and listening to the group you convened for the sole purpose of providing recommendations.

1 Comment so far

  1. northlander January 28th, 2008 8:01 pm

    Maybe the know that after they build Light Rail there won’t be any money put away to keep up the repairs.
    Boston has upgrades and other construction projects that put the T $8 billion in debt. Don’t look good.
    This will cause a 25% fare increase. The MBTA has to keep borrowing money.[bonds] $280 million a year to service that debt.If the state takes over that debt they would still have to pay $80 million a year.
    KC must take a look how much casino money won’t be there when the Kansas Casino’s open.
    Must have a deficiency fund [savings account] to pay for repairs for Light Rail.This would be a pay as you go fund to make repairs while they are small and don’t turn in to larger expenses.
    No money for this tax would go to TIF.

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