Letter to Editor: Train Station is a Boondoggle

Dear Editor,

Troy’s $8 million train station is a disgrace for a city that can’t keep its library open without a tax increase.

Just because the money is coming from a different pot doesn’t mean it’s free. It’s still our tax money, even if it is “standard MDOT funding.” It’s not like the state and federal governments have extra money to burn.

Why did the Troy City Council believe it won’t cost more to patrol a bridge and empty building when residents are being told we must accept reduced police services? Why did Birmingham back out of the project? Why did no one ask the key question: do we need it?

I wonder how many council members have visited the existing train platform with shelter in Birmingham, less than a mile from the proposed one. I’m no mass transit expert, but I’m reasonably well traveled and I know a functional train platform when I see one.

We need to vote in a mayor and council who have the vision to ask thoughtful questions and who will spend our tax money wisely. Unless we do, Troy will accelerate its path towards bigger government. It’s time for new leadership, someone with business sense and experience in the private sector.

Please join me in voting for businesswoman Janice Daniels for mayor and fellow conservatives Dave Henderson, Doug Tietz and Ed Kempen for council.

Sincerely,

Dale Murrish, Troy

Send letters to the editor to Kevin Elliott. They may be edited for clarity or length. Please include a phone humber with your submission.