Concerns over service cuts with TransLink audit
Posted March 25, 2012 12:59 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – There are concerns some outlying transit services could be lost as a result of the audit of TransLink.
Premier Christy Clark says putting TransLink under the microscope should free up enough cash to cover the $30-million shortfall it’s facing. She believes if the auditor can find some efficiencies, there won’t be a need for a vehicle levy or a carbon tax.
Maple Ridge Mayor Ernie Daykin is concerned about what some of those efficiencies might include.
“Part of that maybe saying, we’re going to eliminate the community shuttle, bus out to Albion because it’s only returning 30-cents on every dollar to operate. Well, I’d have a problem with that,” explains Daykin.
“You might find $20-million or maybe $30-million, but what’s that going to do to some of the services,” adds Daykin. That being said, he still supports the audit.
Mayors across Metro Vancouver have been calling for an audit of the TransLink books, arguing the transit authority needs a review before mayors raise any more taxes or impose new tolls to pay for transit. The NDP has also pushed for an audit.
Earlier this month, the Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation wrote to Transportation Minister Blair Lekstrom suggesting a couple of options to help pay for the $30-million shortfall. Those included a vehicle levy, a new regional carbon tax, or another fuel tax be imposed on drivers.
Lekstrom has said the taxes wouldn’t happen but he would consider the vehicle levy.
A date for the audit has yet to be set, but Premier Clark says talks with mayors will start soon.
