April 14, 2009The Honorable David A. PatersonGovernor of New York State CapitolAlbany, NY 12224Dear Governor Paterson,As we rapidly approach the full implementation of the MetropolitanTransportation Authority’s (MTA) devastating fare and toll increases along withdraconian service cuts to train and bus services, I strongly urge you to immediatelyembrace an open, transparent and more importantly a bipartisan approach towardreaching a sensible and lasting solution that benefits all New Yorkers that utilize MTAtransit services, bridges and tunnels.Despite recent published reports and assertions to the contrary, RepublicanSenators, including myself, have been completely excluded from any discussionssurrounding a comprehensive fiscal plan for the MTA. This current course of action hasfailed and is detrimental not only to the legislative process but it has also hindered anypossible resolution on this important issue.With our economy facing the most challenging times in decades, the MTA hasnot been immune to the financial downturn that has impacted our state and our region.For years, the MTA has been riddled with waste, abuse and rampant mismanagement.Time and time again they have relied on increasing fares and tolls in order to closeenormous budget gaps. Now it’s the responsibility of the state government working in aclear and open manner to address the needs of the MTA in order to spare hardworkingcommuters and taxpayers from the recent plan adopted by the MTA Board.At the present time, the Legislative Majorities in both the Senate and theAssembly have not introduced any legislation addressing a plan for the MTA. Witheach passing day, the MTA budget shortfall grows making the task at hand morechallenging. Commuters, transit riders and the taxpayers of New York City and thesurrounding areas cannot afford any further delays and posturing.Based on the urgency and severity of the situation facing commuters, transitriders and taxpayers in the 12 county MTA region, it is imperative for you to call uponSpeaker Silver and Senate Majority Leader Smith to start genuine bipartisandiscussions among all State Legislators that will hopefully forge a fair and equitablesolution for the problems facing the MTA.
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