Leaner is better for CARTA

Here's a CARTA cut we can live with: Those salary increases initially recommended for bus system administrators have been axed in the latest budget plan.

During the recession, public bodies and private businesses alike have had to freeze salaries, furlough employees and eliminate positions. CARTA, where seven administrators already receive a total of almost $600,000 in salary and benefits, and where a $1 million-plus revenue shortfall is anticipated, should do no less.

So it is wise that the agency's Human Resources Committee rejected the salary increases and instead voted to decrease salaries by 0.25 percent -- enough to offset a 9 percent increase in the cost of benefits for CARTA employees. Initially, salary hikes of $14,482 were recommended.

The salary increases the Finance Committee considered last week would have rubbed salt in the wounds of people who will be paying $1.75 instead of $1.50 to ride the bus.

CARTA's board also will be asked to consider eliminating or reducing routes to save money. Those changes would surely pose a hardship for some residents.

At least bus riders, who likely are less able than CARTA employees to absorb additional costs, will not be asked to pay for salary increases.

Before approving the budget, the board also should scrutinize it in search of areas where other cuts can be made. For example, the budget called for spending $9,500 more than last year ($37,500 altogether) for training, travel, professional dues and transportation. If the board approves that line item, it should offer the public compelling reasons for doing so.

During a recession, public transportation is even more important for the people who cannot drive, walk or bicycle to work. And getting people to work is important to the local economy.

CARTA's board on Sept. 15 would do well to approve a budget without salary increases and other expenses that add to the burden of those who already are facing higher fares and reduced routes.