Comment 97729

By positive1@cogeco.ca (registered) | Posted February 20, 2014 at 01:01:49

In the interests of generating some opposition to the NDPs stand on rejecting revenue tools to fund new transit initiatives, I am publishing my letter to the provincial leader, Andrea Horwath. I urge others to do the same.

Dear Ms. Horwath,

As a Hamiltonian, living in and NDP riding, I would like to express my support for new revenue tools to support transit initiatves (Metrolinx) like the proposed light rail in Hamilton.

Far from burdening us with more taxes, it would free up money that would be repaid many times over in economic growth resulting from light rail transit infrastructure (see hamiltonlightrail.com for compelling fact for light rail in Hamilton). This, along with transit-oriented development may be a key factor in renewal of Hamilton's core. As for the middle class and the 'underclass' which the NDP often claims to support, affordable, efficient rapid transit is just what some families need to commute to and from jobs without the ability to afford an automobile.

It is also clearly a winner from the environmental standpoint (lower carbon footprint, less pollution).

I cannot believe the NDP is not supporting this initiative. By the way, it does not have to be simply revenue from taxes.
Development charges, highway tolls and auto licence fees among other tools can be utilized.

Taxes fund much of our infrastructure (including roads for cars), as well as schools, hospitals etc. Why they would not fund transit (like they do in many other countries) is puzzling at best.

I have voted NDP in the past and will consider it in future, provided that their stance on this issue if reconsidered or justified.

I respectfully await your reply.

Sincerely,

Grant Ranalli Hamilton

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