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Funding mass transit.

This post authored by Paul

Increasing fares while decreasing service amounts to two bad ideas at once, but the second is worse than the first. Increased use of public, electric powered mass transit benefits all of us, through less congested roads, and cleaner air. Those who are concerned about global warming should also be eager to expand, not contract mass transit.
The answer is simple - higher income taxes. Most people forget that if you raise my income taxes by 1000 dollars (my family income is around 100,000 per year) it costs me only about 650 dollars. That is because my local taxes are deductable on my Federal return. My real estate taxes are deductable also. However, tolls and subway fares are NOT deductable. They also are regressive fees, that hurt the working poor. No one likes to pay higher taxes. However, higher income taxes for those who can afford them (including me) are a fairer way to fund a service that New York City must keep and improve.
Again, money raised through taxation costs a New York wage earner LESS than money raised through tolls, fares, and other fees.

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By: Mark Green
Wednesday, 5/20/2009

Dear Paul,

As a regular subway rider, I share in the concerns of riders across New York who must deal with problematic service on a daily basis. We must work to improve service on all routes. Through improved service, we can increase ridership, boost local tourism, decrease traffic congestion and relieve stress for millions of riders every year. Here is what I will do to improve service:

  • I will work with local advocates, as well as State and City legislators to ensure that the MTA receives the funding that in needs.

 

  • I will work to ensure full accountability on the part of the MTA, both to make our system more efficient and restore public trust.

Your proposal for an increase in the income tax is an interesting one of several, and cannot be dismissed because a working mass transit system is essential for an easily navigated, sustainable and green New York. Thank you for sharing your idea. I look forward to working with you and people all across the City to make the MTA work for us.

Mark

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