Despite ripping off motorist on the “congestion” racket, the mta still doesn’t have enough cash.
It’s like giving money to a gambling addict. It will never be enough.
Best to let mta go bankrupt and clean house of the waste. It’s time to let the mta money pit go bankrupt.
New York is keeping secret its plan for new taxes and fees to fund $33 billion for the flailing Metropolitan Transportation Authority even as Gov. Kathy Hochul is set to propose her budget this week.
Read thee full article at NYPost
Summary of New York’s Secretive $33 Billion MTA Funding Plan
New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration is under scrutiny as it prepares to unveil a budget proposal while keeping a critical funding plan for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) shrouded in secrecy. The plan aims to generate $33 billion through new taxes and fees, yet details remain elusive, prompting concerns about transparency and governance.
Key Points
Secrecy Surrounding Funding: The state’s strategy to raise $33 billion for the MTA is not publicly disclosed, with Hochul expected to avoid outlining specific proposals in her upcoming executive budget.
Political Blame Game: Hochul has shifted responsibility to state legislative leaders, indicating they should develop a funding plan while refusing to present her own solutions.
Legislative Leaders’ Stance: Key figures like Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins acknowledge that tax and fee increases will be necessary but are hesitant to publicly confront Hochul.
Public Criticism: Experts, including John Kaehny of Reinvent Albany, criticize the lack of transparency, labeling it as “cynical” and indicative of “fearfulness” rather than leadership.
Broader Budgetary Context: Hochul is proposing significant spending increases across various sectors, raising questions about the overall fiscal strategy and the potential impact on taxpayers.
Detailed Breakdown
Funding Challenges for the MTA
The MTA faces a substantial financial gap in its $68 billion five-year capital plan, with the need for $33 billion in new revenue. Despite the urgency, Hochul has refrained from providing a clear funding strategy, which has left the public and lawmakers in the dark.
Political Dynamics
Hochul’s reluctance to propose a funding solution has led to a political stalemate. Legislative leaders have refrained from criticizing her approach, instead opting for behind-the-scenes negotiations. Heastie stated, “It’s a budget. We’ll figure it out,” reflecting a non-confrontational stance among Democrats.
Public Sentiment and Expert Opinions
John Kaehny’s remarks highlight a growing frustration with the administration’s approach to governance. He noted that the lack of transparency could alienate public support for the MTA and transit initiatives. The sentiment among lawmakers like Deputy Senate Majority Leader Michael Gianaris suggests a desire for more open communication from the governor.
Proposed Spending Increases
Amidst the funding uncertainty, Hochul is advocating for a range of spending initiatives, including $3 billion in checks for low and middle-income residents and increased funding for police presence in subways. These measures could potentially escalate the state budget by an additional $5 to $6 billion, raising concerns about fiscal sustainability.
Notable Quotes & Data
- John Kaehny: “It’s cynical and it’s kind of a projection of fearfulness rather than strength.”
- Carl Heastie: “I assume raising revenue will absolutely be on the table.”
- Estimated costs for Hochul’s proposed spending could add $5-$6 billion without cuts elsewhere.
Context & Implications
The situation reflects broader challenges in New York’s governance, particularly in managing public transportation funding amidst economic pressures. The lack of a clear, public funding strategy for the MTA may hinder effective planning and implementation of necessary improvements. As negotiations unfold behind closed doors, the implications for transparency and public trust in government remain significant.
In conclusion, New York’s approach to funding the MTA is fraught with political maneuvering and a lack of transparency, raising critical questions about the future of public transportation in the state and the administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility. The upcoming budget proposal will be a pivotal moment for both Hochul and the MTA, as stakeholders await clarity on how the state plans to address this pressing financial challenge.