The N&R editorializes on Greensboro City Council member Robbie Perkins’ plan to lend the state $30 million to help finish the Outer Loop, calling it a “risky proposition”:
A frank discussion with DOT leaders can’t hurt. Perkins notes, “Other cities in this state are lobbying for stuff all the time, and we’re not aggressive enough.” So maybe it’s time to get Raleigh’s attention.
But a bull can throw its weight around. One risk is that the state begins to demand local funds up front before proceeding with projects. Another is that cities influence DOT priorities by kicking in money, giving advantages to the wealthiest municipalities.
Fair enough, although I kept waiting for our local paper of record to show a little more curiosity as to why the city suddenly has $30 million from previous transportation bond projects lying around, even after voters just approved another $134 million last November. Yet the city cries and complains about not having any money, constantly waxing hopeful about the federal government bailing them out.
In my mind, this is Reason No. 1,324* to vote against bonds.
*OK, I made that number up. But you get the point.
