I took some time to reflect on the transit debate and realized that although I have studied it myself and am quite confident moving ahead with it is the right choice for Cochrane, many people have not studied it as much. Having studied the Cochrane Cares document, been involved in the Smart Cities application, read the transit report prepared by administration and having had 3 kids grow up in Cochrane over the last 21 years, it is abundantly clear to me that transit within Cochrane is a necessity. I almost (almost...) want to start over with kids, just so I can see the effect it will have on our family with all of the changes it would bring. The benefits that will change our community forever are many and will leave a large imprint on our Town. Some of them are: •People re-obtaining their freedom of movement and independence; •Anyone who loses their independence when they stop driving cannot easily contribute to our community and become extremely dependent on others which causes a ripple effect. These people need and deserve their independence, just as you do. •Parents are able to have kids move safely around town to after school activities or jobs without the recurring need for parental shuttling; •Kids being able to start down the road of independence years earlier and participate in many community activities limited to them by the availability of a parent or shuttle driver; •The immense financial and time burden of every family with kids causing a need for a second vehicle; The impact of less traffic on the roads; •The allowance of people of all ages with disabilities to more fully participate in our society. Until you spend time with someone with mobility issues, you have no idea how restricted their life is. It is shameful how restricted their lives are - they can't participate in the job market as there is no feasible way for them to afford or coordinate a reliable daily ride to work. I'll gladly show you examples if you want to see them; •The person who works a job in downtown Cochrane but can't afford a car. Currently they have to live within the inner town, perhaps not a choice they like, nor the most affordable, but they have no choice. Housing markets that will change and adjust, allowing for diverse housing options in all communities; •CSHO - This fantastic organization has housing in places people need vehicles to get to - further restricting who can live and thrive, where. The list goes on... This is a small subset of the many things that will improve within Cochrane once transit is underway. We have the funding, we have the plan and we have the people to make it happen. Don't let this opportunity slip away. The Town will spend approx $6 million of taxpayer money over 5 years. At the end, if we shut it down, we will still have assets worth at least that amount that can be sold. The worst that can happen is we break even. The best that can happen? We can only imagine! I am certainly willing to pay an additional $60 per year in taxes to allow transit to move ahead. Get on the bus Cochrane! Kevin Shier
