Voice of the People

Beware, residents of Lake and Porter Counties! An elaborate trap is being set for you, one that will ensnare you and your hard-earned dollars for years to come. I am speaking of the proposed expansion of the South Shore Commuter line into south Lake and Porter Counties.

A media and public relations blitz is now underway to garner support for this project, led by the NWI Forum, NICTD, NIRPC, RDA, and select members of the State Legislature. The problem is, only half the story is being told. We hear from people such as Vince Galbiati and Karen Tallian of the myriad benefits of such an expansion, but only Chet Dobis is honest (or foolhardy) enough to suggest a way to raise the enormous sums of money needed for this project.

Once public support for expansion is gained, a concerted effort to institute a new tax will commence. It could be an income tax, a wheel tax, a sales tax, or an ‘economic development’ tax. The proponents of expansion hope that, by the time this issue is introduced, public opposition to a new tax will be overwhelmed by the supposed ’benefits’ of said project. To oppose such a tax would be Un-American!

Watch the upcoming session of the State Legislature closely; several tax proposals will be introduced to raise money for expansion. Much pressure will be exerted on the local representatives to support one of the plans. Even Congressman Pete Visclosky, the powerful Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, has weighed in on the issue of public funding, so you know this is a serious matter.

I already directly support the existing South Shore Line through the county income tax; soon, I will be asked (forced) to extend my hard-earned money to subsidize another public transportation system. When is enough, enough? If you have an opinion on this matter, please let your elected representatives know.

I challenge any of our local officials to respond publicly to my hypotheses. If you are willing to support expansion, at least tell the public NOW, how you expect to finance this project. We need all the facts, not just a select few.

George Mrak

Porter

Posted 10/11/2007