[milwaukee-electric] Pivotal State Budget Hearings are Next Step in Push for RTA.

[mrcooby]

Historic decisions on the Regional Transit Authority will be made in the coming weeks that will shape our ability to connect people to jobs, spur sustainable economic development, and attract the businesses, jobs, and talent that will build wealth in SE Wisconsin. We have arrived at a pivotal point and our attention and action is important over the next few months.

The future of our transit systems and KRM Line is riding on the creation of a strong permanent Regional Transit Authority. With a permanent RTA we can avoid major transit service reductions that cut people off from jobs and will eventually result in bankrupt transit systems. Without an RTA, KRM Commuter Rail and other initiatives cannot become a reality.
See talking points about why an RTA is needed now.
<http://www.transitnow.org/EndorseTransitForProperity.htm>

State legislation is required to create a permanent RTA. The Governor
has included a strong RTA proposal in his budget bill.
On March 25 and March 30, state budget hearings will take place in West Allis and Racine that will kick off the the next step of needed
legislative action on the RTA. See more about the Governor's RTA
proposal and why an RTA is vital NOW
<http://www.transitnow.org/021709DoyleBudget.htm> .

Urgency: The window of opportunity is very short!
Support Governor Doyle's RTA proposal with the addition of property tax relief.

1. Attend state budget hearing and testify (arrive between 8:30 AM and
9:00 AM to register). Testimony is limited to 3 minutes; bring copies of your testimony to submit in writing. Please include full name and
address.

2. Join with RTA, transit, and KRM advocates from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at the budget hearings to show the broad support for the Governor's RTA budget proposal. Buttons will be available to identify you as a
supporter, please wear green or black. 

3. Submit written testimony or register your opinion at the hearing.

State Budget Hearings in SE Wisconsin
Wednesday, March 25, 2009 10 - 4
State Fair Park, Banquet Room #2, 640 S. 84th Street, West Allis, WI
53214

Monday, March 30, 10-4 P.M
  J.I. Case High School, Theater, 7345 Washington Ave., Racine

4. Send letters and emails to Joint Finance Committee members. Click
here  <http://www.legis.state.wi.us/lfb/jfc.html> for contact
information. It's very helpful if you send us a copy.

Finally, please endorse the Transit Principles for Prosperity
<http://www.transitnow.org/EndorseTransitForProperity.htm> . The
endorser list illustrates the broad support for the RTA and transit
advancements. Ask your organization or businesses to sign on!

All aboard for the RTA! Thanks ...


=Lou Rugani=