The city should use the bus fare controversy to open up discussion on transportation priorities in the city budget.

Do what should have been done in the original city budget:

1. Fund security for the bus transfer points out of the Police Department budget.
2. Remove or delay street and highway expansion; use savings for the Metro budget.
3. Cancel the marketing staff position unless the salary is funded by sales commissions.
4. Treat Metro as an essential city service -- don't hold it hostage to user fees.

Keep the cash fare at $1.50. If absolutely necessary, raise the price of the institutional monthly bus pass slightly.

Don't let the mayor call for an up-or-down vote on his $2 increase. This discussion needs to be opened up to enable the bigger picture to be debated.

George Perkins, Madison

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