Your WTA Levy Ballot Due April 27th

The Whatcom Democrats have endorsed the Whatcom Transit Authority Levy increase of .2% sales tax, which will be considered by all Whatcom County voters in April.

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN HELP

Phone-calling to recruit volunteers and get-out-the-vote; sign-up via email.

Doorbell on Saturdays to spead the word; sign-up via email.

Add your name to an endorsement ad to show broad public support for the levy. EMAIL your permission to use your name.

Donate to help pay for endorsement ads and other campaign activities. Donate on-line HERE

Share this video about the WTA with your friends. 30-second spot

Print out an endorsement sheet and get your friends and neighbors to endorsement the levy, too HERE

Register for the first time in WA before April 19th at the Auditor's office

Whatcom Transit Authority provides thousands of people access to work, school, medical appointments and other activities. It also provides access to new opportunities by creating communities where people can drive less and walk more, by providing greater access to community events, and by meeting the needs of all citizens, particularly those who do not drive or own a car. 

WTA ridership is on the rise. In 2008, the Federal Transit Administration recognized WTA as the agency with the largest ridership increase in the nation (32%). Since 2000, ridership has increased by nearly 100%, with total trips reaching almost 5 million in 2009. Transit riders each save an average of $9,215 annually, based on the March 3, 2010 national average gas price and the national unreserved monthly parking rate.

Like all Washington State transit agencies, WTA’s primary source of funding is local sales tax, at .6%. The recession has crippled Whatcom Transit Authority’s ability to provide current levels of service. In 2009, WTA implemented $2 million dollars in cuts and will be forced to cut another $4 million over the next year, due to decreased sales tax revenue. This levy is about fighting for our values as Democrats. Whether it is more jobs, a cleaner environment, energy independence, or a better quality of life, public transportation takes us there.

The WTA has requested a modest increase in sales tax of 0.2%. (That’s just 2 cents on $10 dollars). Cuts in transit service hurt members of the community who can afford it least. The Whatcom Democrats support the passage of this levy to protect the most vulnerable members of our community and preserve routes, evening and Sunday service.

Ballots for the Special Election will be mailed out on April 7, 2010. The last day to register to vote in person is April 19, 2010. Ballots are due at the Whatcom County Auditor’s Office on April 27, 2010.

For more information on the Whatcom Democrats campaign for the WTA Levy, contact Elisabeth Britt via email or leave a message for her at 647-7661. 

For additional information please visit Transit Works website.