Recent coverage of the Columbia River Crossing has prompted me to clarify my position, as your 17th District state representative, on a public vote and light rail. There has been a lot of discussion and letters about who supports various aspects of the proposal and what should be subject to a vote of the people. The most recent letter, mentioned in the March 17 Columbian story, “Legislators urge crossing advisory vote: County skeptical of request from 17th District lawmakers,” was an attempt at solidarity from the 17th District legislators that the public should be allowed a voice. However, due to differing views on what should be put to a vote, the letter ended up generic.
I want to be clear — the people in Clark County should have the opportunity to vote on the light rail option in November. The process surrounding this portion of the project has not always been open and transparent. If we are going to use tax dollars, the public has a right to know their money is being used wisely. It is not uncommon for counties to put advisory elections or ballot measures to a vote of the people. For that reason, I believe the people of Clark County should vote on light rail.
Paul Harris
Vancouver
