STA managed efficiently

I would like to respond to Dan Allison’s recommendation that we vote against the sales tax initiative renewing 0.3 percent for funding the operation of the STA. His reason was because of a $58 million reserve fund.

This is not a reserve fund, but a cash balance and had Mr. Allison informed himself of the facts, he would have found that the $58 million has been building over several years and is allocated to:

Replacement of 75 buses that have met and far exceeded their projected useful life.

Technology improvements for better customer service and safety.

Capital improvements necessary due to the increase in ridership and demand for a quality transit system throughout our area.

I would also like to point out that the STA cost per mile is better than other transit systems in Washington state, and personally I feel that any business or organization that can be operated without borrowing money or paying interest shows great fiscal responsibility.

The greater Spokane area has a wonderful transit system that serves our community, and I urge you to vote yes with me on May 20.

Debbie Blodgett

Greenacres