FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 6/25/2014
Councilmember Tom Rasmussen
Public Hearing on Metro Bus Service Funding Proposal Tomorrow
SEATTLE – Councilmember Tom Rasmussen, acting in his capacity as Chair of the Seattle Transportation Benefit District (STBD) Board, announced a public hearing to listen to resident feedback relating to legislation to preserve King County Metro Transit Service in Seattle.
The legislation under consideration formalizes Mayor Ed Murray’s proposal for a ballot measure which was announced in May. In April, Seattle voters approved Proposition 1 by a margin of two-to-one, but the measure ultimately failed County-wide. Rasmussen’s legislation seeks voter-approval for vehicle license fees and a sales and use tax to fund Metro Transit service in Seattle. The legislation must be passed by the Seattle Transportation Benefit District Board by August 5 in order to be placed on the November 2014 ballot.
The STBD is interested in hearing public feedback on the following:
- How would planned Metro Transit service cuts impact you if no action is taken to prevent these cuts?
- What is your perspective on an additional vehicle license fee of up to $60 and a 0.1% sales and use tax to prevent planned Metro Transit service cuts in Seattle, and if funds allow, to enhance transit service?
- What other information should the Board take into consideration as it develops a potential ballot measure for the November election?
Rasmussen also announced three other meetings scheduled in July; the complete STBD Board Summer Meeting schedule is available online. The STBD is also accepting feedback by phone and email at seattletbd@seattle.gov or (206) 233-5005.
WHAT: Public Hearing regarding raising revenue to preserve King County Metro Transit service
WHEN: Thursday, June 26, 5:30 p.m.
WHERE: Council Chambers, 2nd floor
Seattle City Hall, 600 Fourth Avenue, Seattle 98104
WHO: Seattle Transportation Benefit District Governing Board
Public