During a joint meeting with Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority today (PSTA), the HART Board voted unanimously to note its opposition to Section 71 of Senate Bill 1866 - as currently presented -- citing the bill's impact to HART in regards to costs and governance, as well as its constrained timeframe. The bill was filed today by State Sen. Jack Latvala. To view the bill in its entirety, visit: 

As part of the vote, HART will send a letter to Sen. Latvala, appropriate legislative committees and the Hillsborough County Legislative Delegation outlining its opposition to this portion of the bill. HART and PSTA board members agreed to meet in the future to identify opportunities for greater efficiency and continue to collaborate on all aspects of transit planning and delivery, as suggested in the bill.

Today's vote is in concurrence to the HART Legislative Policy Statement, approved by the HART Board during a regular meeting on Nov. 7, 2011. The statement emphasizes an independent study paid for by the State of Florida, a transparent and deliberative process for consolidation/mergers, and opposition to state-imposed transportation mandates. To view the HART Legislative Policy Statement, visit: http://www.gohart.org/departments/marketing/news/documents/HART_Legislative_Policy_Statement.pdf 

The joint meeting took place today at 1 p.m. at the HART Ybor Office, 1201 E. Seventh Ave., in Tampa.

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