There will be a hearing on Thursday, December 18 to discuss proposed changes to Augusta Public Transit. On the table are fare increases coupled with service cuts. Nice one-two punch.
The fares threaten to go up from $1 to $1.50 and there will no longer be transfers; a transfer will mean paying the fare in full again when getting on the second bus. Adding that up, someone going to their (do ya think maybe low-paying) job on the bus with one transfer five times a week will face their costs going from $13.50 a week to $30. A yearly increase of $858. Let's keep in mind that Georgia in its infinite Wisdom, Justice and Moderation taxes income on workers earning down to below poverty level.
Hopefully the rider doesn't have to work on Saturdays. If funding cuts stand, APT will also stop running buses on Saturdays.
What can we do to stop this? It would mean property owners taking the hit of an $18 a year increase in taxes per $100,000 worth of home value. Can we handle that? If you think you can, call your commissioner and come out to the hearing Thursday 4:30-6:00pm at May Park Community Center (622 Fourth St. Augusta). May Park is the one across from the jail.
Commissioners' numbers and map of districts here. Can't hurt to call Deke, either.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment