Candidate for
Director; San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District; Area 2

BART was named the #1 Transit System in America by the American Public Transportation Association in 2005. The Board shares this recognition with the outstanding employees of our system and the public. I want to work to maintain this high level of service.

I am proud to be characterized as a strong leader who is dedicated to public service. These words were written in the Contra Costa Times after I successfully led the Board in 2005. As President of the Board the key accomplishment was settling labor negotiations with contracts that were fair and equitable to employees and affordable to riders. The contracts averted a strike and erased the District's $24 million deficit.

As the Board chair, I authored rules to limit BART directors' travel -- putting an end to abuses. I have changed the way the BART board does business -- making it more transparent. The public has a right to know how decisions are made.

I support community partnerships to build rail service extensions -- improving service at a reduced cost to taxpayers and riders. An extension built with public and private investment is a win-win for everyone.

Let's not lose sight of the job of a BART director -- working to reduce traffic congestion. BART ridership is steadily increasing and excellent service must be maintained to keep the riders using transit instead of their cars. The wonderful byproduct of succeeding in this job is improving the environment.

My opponent is a former employee of the BART District. If elected, he will be the third former employee on the nine-member board.

I offer proven independent leadership with a vision for the future. I would appreciate your vote so I can continue to serve you.