Candidate for
Director; San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District; District 4

To reduce traffic and protect our environment, we need a functioning BART system. When we are honest about information and treat people with respect, projects get done and trains move.

My family and I are long-time BART riders. I have served on interagency transportation committees with Oakland and AC Transit, and understand the important of keeping BART moving.

As an Alameda City Councilmember, I have advanced a number of environmental initiatives, such as Alameda's Green Building Ordinance and Climate Change Action Plan, and other statewide initiatives by serving on the Environmental Policy Committee of the League of California Cities. These initiatives rely on a transit system that people can depend on.

BART needs to focus on the core system. Repairs are critical, primarily those that affect the safety and access for riders and workers. Stations need to improve their cleanliness and elevators need to work. Since BART has an operating surplus, I would not support a fare hike.

In light of the findings in the 224-page report by Agreement Dynamics, the lack of leadership lead to the two strikes in July and October 2013. As your BART Board director, I will ask the tough questions and work to resolve issues before we put the Bay Area into gridlock when BART stopped moving.

Please join supporters in voting Tam for BART.