Raise the Hammer
Councillor Brian McHattie originally supported the fare increase, but according to the Hamilton Spectator he's changed his mind about its scale.
Yesterday, the Spectator reported that McHattie "asked council to reconsider its decision before the budget is finalized."
As it stands, cash fares are supposed to go up 15 cents to $2.25. There will be a 10-cent increase in ticket fares, $6 on monthly passes, $40 for the annual seniors bus pass and 10 cents for DARTS tickets.
McHattie wants to limit the increase, allowing the cash hike but permitting only a 5 cent jump in ticket fares and no increases in the seniors pass or DARTS fares.
City Council has been under a lot of pressure lately to reverse their decision to raise fares, and McHattie's decision could reflect that.
Unfortunately, McHattie wasn't able to get the 11 votes he needed to reopen discussion. According to the Spectator, he criticized Flamborough Councillor Margaret McCarthy for voting against his motion since her ward has no bus service and thus wouldn't see any increase in taxes to pay for it.
By Bus Boy (anonymous) | Posted April 16, 2007 at 12:05:59
I wonder if it mightn't be more creative to maintain current prices for passes while bumping prices for single use and tickets.
Seems to me that the pressure for lower fares has compressed the scale so tightly that there isn't much incentive to make multi-use purchases, though weekly, monthly and even "all day" passes should be the most efficient way to collect fares. Opening up the scale might encourage more use by rewarding those who make the most of public transit.
Just a thought.
You must be logged in to comment.
There are no upcoming events right now.
Why not post one?