Editor, The News:
What is mobility pricing? Just a shiny friendly new term coined by a consulting firm hired by the mayor’s council of Metro Vancouver because “driver’s tax” sounds much less palatable.
The online questions are skewed to get the responses that the mayors want, such as asking if the gas tax should be eliminated.
One would assume you should agree, but be careful what you wish for.
The gas tax is shared by all drivers regardless of where you live or whether you drive for work or pleasure. If it is replaced by mobility pricing, the tax burden will shift squarely on the shoulders’ of the working middle class that commute greater distances, whereby the wealthier residents that live closer will be taxed less.
The online survey refers to “fairness” by referring to user pay in mobility pricing. However, if they are implying a user pay system, will that apply to using public transit ? If so, the fares would sky rocket and not be affordable.
Vancouver Vision council and Mayor Gregor Robertson are creating more congestion by taking out the Georgia Viaduct and reducing road capacity by adding bike lanes.
Now they want the commuters to pay for the increased congestion?
They encourage public transit, but there is no rapid transit to most parts of the valley. Instead of investing in rapid transit to Maple Ridge, Delta, and Ladner, the first project in line is for the most expensive one, being the underground Broadway SkyTrain extension to UBC. What is the purpose of a line to UBC? How many car hours will actually be eliminated ? Can a cheaper above-ground system be used ? What is the justification for this project?
I support a better public transit system in Metro Vancouver. Public transit will benefit all residences of Metro Vancouver, therefore all residences should bear the costs.
It should not unfairly burden the working middle class, who have no choice but to commute during peak periods. Make sure your voice is heard on the website
It’s time. I also urge you to contact your local council member and MLA to ensure that the funding model is indeed fair.
Garrick S.L. Jay
Pitt Meadows