STA campaign was bad

I was not surprised how close Spokane Transit Authority Proposition 1 ballot measure was to passing considering the advertising that showed a loving STA; great for the elderly, students and needy.

The numerous TV ads, along with the proliferation of yard signs, did not mention that 25 percent, or $72 million, was earmarked for a trolley line, with trolleys going from Browne’s Addition through downtown to Spokane Community College.

We once had trolleys downtown, and many times the lone occupant was the driver. STA’s history of spending is greater than irresponsible. The STA Plaza put in the wrong location downtown was projected to cost $8 million to $12 million. Final cost of this structure: $25 million. The building is now worth less than $3 million.

Also not mentioned was the hardship to the working poor, students and retired elderly of increasing our sales tax to 9 percent, especially for an unneeded, wasteful $72 million trolley system.

A shot across the bow to Spokane County Commissioner Al French and City Councilman Jon Snyder. Put this on the ballot again, and there are many of us who will trumpet the facts to counteract your misleading advertising.

Jock Swanstrom

Spokane Valley