I urge readers to take a close look at charter amendment question #4.  In addition to putting rail O&M under one agency (which needs to be done), it also gives HART the authority to issue revenue bonds.  Revenue bonds for transit agencies are typically backed by fares.  If this amendment passes, however, fares would be under DTS.

That leaves us to wonder what type of revenue would back these bonds.  We know that Caldwell and Djou oppose using RPT to fund rail construction, and we know some in the legislature do not support a surcharge extension.  

How about a new tax?  A $70 per vehicle rail tax could bring in $2.1 billion over 30 years, based on about 1 million vehicles on Oahu.  Yes, this would have to be approved by the legislature, and yes, the current surcharge law would need to be changed, but it sure looks like we're being set up for something here.

We should remember that council can propose a well-vetted amendment for the next election.  I'll be voting "no" on Q 4.