Hundreds pack County Council meeting on $20 car tabs

Published 4:57 pm Tuesday, July 26, 2011

People packed the King County Council meeting on Monday to speak, mostly in favor, of a $20 car-tab fee to help avoid cuts to Metro Transit. The council is debating whether to enact the fee and, if so, putting it into effect now or putting it on the November ballot. After hours of testimony, the council postponed any decision until Aug. 15. Residents carried “Save My Bus” signs and the testimonies lasted nearly two hours. Those with sight and hearing disabilities told council members that cuts in transit service would force them to walk — driving vehicles would not be an option — risking injury in the process. Metro is facing a $60 million deficit and has said it would have to cut service by 17 percent to close the gap. A $20 car tab fee would make up $50 million of the loss with other efficiencies contributing to the rest. County Executive Dow Constantine said he appreciates the willingness of council members to take more time to carefully consider the merits.

“Clearly, the hundreds who turned out to speak with one voice for a rescue of Metro bus service made a difference,” Constantine said, “and we thank them for their passion and commitment.”