January 19, 2007
Welcome, Senator Carona
We at McBlogger have been hearing a lot about Senator Carona, especially good things which is curious since he's a Republican and all. Apparently the good Senator has now realized that tolling and selling off assets (or, what TTC Commissioner Dumb Dumbson refers to as 'leasing', even though the 'lease' lasts as long, in some cases, as a human lifetime) for a pittance of upfront money is not only fiscally stupid and irresponsible, it's bad public policy.
He joins a lengthy and growing list of mostly Democrats and a few Republicans who've come to realize that passing 3588 was a bad thing. I think even now Todd Staples might regret his decision to have done so much to further the cause of privatizing, at the expense of citizens, the most vital infrastructure in the state.
Here's a great first start... outright moratorium on all toll projects. Rep. Coleman definitely is spot on with that proposal. Next one, abrogate all the contracts signed with toll developers and pay for actual construction costs to date and no handouts for the loss of future operating revenue. Let them sue and in the process, forbid them from any government work.
The one thing that never ceases to amaze me is how gutless elected officials can be. Y'all need to grow some goddamn huevos and learn how to play hardball. It is, after all, just business. If Zachry wants to sue then I think it only fair that they be cut out of every local, state and federal transportation project in Texas. It's not like we don't have other companies that can handle things.
Senator Carona is also on my new fave list for calling for the resignation of TTC Chair, Ric Williamson. Another great first step.
Sen. John Carona, R-Dallas, said Williamson’s “abrasiveness” and single-minded commitment to toll roads and privatization as the solution to traffic congestion “has worn out his welcome in many communities across the state.”“I think it would be in the best interest of the state that he step aside in favor of new leadership on the commission,” he said.
Thanks, Senator, for helping everyone to correct this imbalance. It's good to see Republicans and Democrats working together. It would have been sad to have to have run y'all out on a rail in 2008 and 2010 and replace you all with Democrats. Really, we like some Republicans. Especially the ones not named Leo Berman.
Except you, Krusee. You should really look into Baxtering yourself. Just saying...
Posted by mcblogger at January 19, 2007 01:07 PM
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