About That “Nice Treat” . . . “Whom Does This Actually Benefit?”

About that “nice treat”, you do realize there is a big MTA bond issue coming up this November, don’t you? “Fare Cuts for Holidays Are Called Into Question”:

It may seem like a benevolent year-end gift, but fiscal analysts and watchdog groups from both ends of the political spectrum yesterday criticized as irresponsible the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s plan to give subway, bus and commuter-rail riders fare discounts during the holiday season.

The discounts, which would be unprecedented in scope and cost an estimated $50 million this year in lost revenue, may secure some sorely needed good will for the authority, which is urging voters to approve a $2.9 billion state transportation bond act on Election Day.

But the authority faces a grim fiscal situation in the near future, as rising debt payments threaten to devour its operating budget. The authority hopes to balance its books next year, but anticipates a net budget deficit of $128 million in 2007, rising to $880 million in 2009.

Liberal and conservative analysts alike questioned the prudence of the temporary discounts.

The Zagat version of this article would go something like:

The MTA, already under fire for its murky bookkeeping, appears to be engaged in “feel-good, short-term gimmicks” and a “a yo-yo fare policy” to “secure some sorely needed good will” as voters will be asked to approve its $2.9 billion state transportation bond act. “Merely a Christmas present,” an “empty election-year gift” to the Mayor or “a nice gesture” that they can afford? The question of “Whom does this actually benefit?” is on everyone’s minds.

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