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Program Initially Proposed by Progressive Dane Members Will Benefit Business, Working Families and the Environment
Progressive Dane, a local grassroots political party, today congratulated the Mayor and the Madison Common Council on the establishment of a program, proposed last year by the Progressive Dane Economic Issues Task Force, to offer small employers discounted rates for unlimited ride passes on the Metro system.
"This is an excellent program," said Ald. Satya Rhodes-Conway, who helped craft the proposal before she was elected and was one of the sponsors of the resolution establishing the program. "It builds on the success of the program offered to larger employers in Madison and is one way to show our commitment to supporting the small business community."
Previously, Metro only offered unlimited ride pass contracts to organizations with 1,000 employees or more, like the UW or MATC. The resolution passed at last night's council meeting directs Metro to employ a contractor to develop and market a program for small employers that also want to purchase these passes for their employees.
"I'm eager to see this program implemented," said Ald. Robbie Webber, another sponsor. "It should increase ridership on the Metro system, reduce traffic and free up parking spaces for customers instead of commuters."
The idea for the program originated in the Progressive Dane Economic Issues Task Force, which suggested it to Mayor Dave Cieslewicz and worked with city staff to develop it.
"We're really pleased this is becoming a reality," said Rick Richards, Chair of the Progressive Dane Economic Issues Task Force. "Our members, responding to allies in the small business community, worked hard to bring this idea forward and ensure its implementation. This bus pass program is a perfect example of legislation that is good for Madison’s small businesses, good for the environment, and good for workers."
"Paying for parking or putting $1.50 per trip into bus fare takes a real toll on people with modest incomes," said Ald. Brenda Konkel, a sponsor of the resolution. "This program is just one of many ways the city can support working families."
Posted by prodane at May 16, 2007 08:56 PM
We, the members of Progressive Dane, join together to form an independent political party in Dane County with a major focus on local issues. We pledge to work to improve the quality of life in Dane County for all people, particularly those marginalized by economic and social discrimination. We will work to improve our local government by making it open, easier to understand, and accessible for all citizens of Dane County. We are working to achieve positive policy change by electing accountable progressive officials and mobilizing citizen action.
Progressive Dane's "In The News" blog keeps you up to date on the latest news from (and about) PD. Check here for information on PD's policy initiatives and to read about what our endorsed elected officials are up to.
