By Mark Bashore, WKAR
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-913291.mp3
CHARLOTTE, MI – On August 3, Eaton County voters will decide whether to significantly expand public transportation services. WKAR's Mark Bashore has this report.
AUDIO:
Currently, the Eaton County Public Transportation Authority--or EATRAN--only offers weekday, 'call ahead' bus service. The measure would add seven new 'fixed' bus routes and four new passenger pick up points. Supporters say that would better connect Charlotte, Eaton Rapids and Delta Township. Weekday service hours would grow and weekend service would be readded. Donna Webb is the Executive Director of EATRAN.
"People will be able to move through the community at a much easier, much more convenient...and at a faster pace," she says.
The proposal would increase EATRAN's current quarter-mill levy to three-quarters of a mill. That means the owner of a $75,000 home would pay another $38 a year in property taxes. That's too much for Katie Hudson, a clerk at a women's clothing boutique in downtown Charlotte.
"It's kinda hard considering how property taxes are rising already, and our house has already lost--I don't know, we moved in about a couple of years ago. We've already lost a bunch of money on it as it is," she says.
Opponents also point to EATRAN's own data showing the service has fewer than one rider per vehicle mile. Still, some opponents are okay with current levels of service. The measure's defeat would not end funding for existing EATRAN services.
The issue appears to hinge on whether Eaton county residents will support more services for riders pinched by the economy...or whether voters who already feel overtaxed and underserved will prevail.