JOHN MAHER - BART Director District 5

By John Maher

CANDIDATE AND CAMPAIGN INFORMATION

FIRST FOCUS
My first focus will be to ensure that the new BART cars are safe and meet all required contract specifications prior to being put into service. In addition, I will work to increase safety by ensuring that BART Police personnel are continually trained to the highest standards.

SAFETY
Safety is a paramount issue for service to the riding public. Attention to maintain good repair of the existing system is, without question, a top priority for the riding public.

BART GROWTH
Expanding the system will be expected as communities grow and strategic planning coordinated with civic leaders will focus on the best expansion planning. I want to investigate methods where BART encourages higher capacity BART usage. One issue would be to reward BART riders by refunding a portion of their parking expense. BART parking charges are not only to increase revenue, but also discourage non-BART parking in BART lots. BART must plan to have enough parking capacity to encourage ridership. If a commuter cannot trust the BART system to have an available car parking space, then that BART rider will not be encouraged to use BART. I would open my office to accept creative solutions from the BART ridership.

BART extensions to Livermore and San Jose are to be expected. Communities are growing and there is no doubt that people will want the current level of service + or better. Therefore expansions into new communities should be done with all system engineering practices that are applied to all complex technical systems. I also see my role to make myself known to Alameda County Transportation Commission personnel and define my position as a constructive partner.

TAXES
Regarding any tax proposals, tax proposals should be presented to the public with a tax termination date. At the termination date, a review of BART fiancés should be reported to the public - with or without the need for an extension. Keeping the public informed establishes and continues proper public relations in BART planning.

BART ENVIRONMENT
As a private citizen I am aware of the volume of materials that are NOT being recycled. By my recycling efforts, I continue to be an example to others that recycling benefits everyone. I would champion that message within the BART system + both riders and BART employees.

I will make my office available for any of your concerns, and I will respond directly to your issues presented to me.

SUMMARY
In summary, my top priorities as BART Director, District 5 are:

BART ridership safety, Strategic planning for expansion, Senior Citizen and Student fare allowances Cooperation with other transit systems to give the riding public the best service.

My prior BART experience has given me the insight to work effectively with all BART employees. I will work with labor and management to improve service for the riding public.

I remain dedicated to high standards and service, and I respectively solicit your vote.

Thank you.

John Maher.