SMART Millage: Vote "YES" on your primary ballot

WXYZ -
Southeast Michigan desperately needs the SMART buses to keep rolling. They are a necessity for 40,000 daily riders, many who depend on them to get to their jobs. They are also an essential part of this region’s current mass transit system. Developing a more comprehensive system that includes light rail is our dream for the future but still probably years away.

On August 3rd, we urge voters in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb Counties to approve a 0.59 millage renewal. It’s not a new tax! For the owner of a $100,000 home, it will cost about $29 a year. Passage of the millage is crucial because it accounts for more than 40 percent of SMART’s annual operating budget. The SMART system is efficiently run. Last year, it raised fares, consolidated operations, and reduced some staff.

But falling property values have taken their toll on SMART’s overall budget. The system needs your help to remain healthy enough to serve nearly 100 suburban communities and more than 50,000 businesses. That’s why grassroots organizations and the county government leaders of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb support the SMART millage renewal.

On Primary Election Day, vote YES for SMART. For thousands of people who depend on public transportation, it’s their lifeline to the world!

Broadcast: July 23 - 26, 2010