LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

TARTA union seeks better transit

8/3/2014

Your July 8 editorial “Looking for a leader” was a call to elected officials and the public to realize that we must find creative solutions to the problems of our transit system.

By law, the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority can’t lobby communities directly. But TARTA can form connections with those who think transit is important. This includes, but isn’t limited to, senior groups, the disabled community, inner-city development organizations, and interfaith organizations.

Riders have plenty of reasons to rally against a deficient system. Toledo ranks among the worst U.S. metro areas for transit service in neighborhoods with jobs.

Instead of demanding real leadership on funding for safe and reliable transit, many people instead choose to play the blame game. If we look to community and business leaders to collaborate on bold initiatives, we may be closer to resolving Toledo’s transit problem.

TARTA workers represented by Amalgamated Transit Union Local 697 have put a stake in the ground. We are pressing TARTA leaders to change how the agency’s local tax subsidy is collected.

This includes sales-tax funding, which is how most regions pay for mass transit. The workers will be mobilizing riders, businesses, and the public to demand safe and reliable transit.

TARTA workers know that transit is vital to a thriving community and a gateway to the middle class. A well-funded and well-run transportation system also provides equal access to decent-paying jobs.

Elected officials, TARTA, passengers, transit workers, and everyone else who cares about transit in Toledo need to make dependable and strong transportation a priority for our city.

CARLY ALLEN

Business Agent/Financial SecretaryLocal 697 Amalgamated Transit UnionFront Street