Episode 243- Railing Against Incompetence

www.commsolutionsmn.com- Southwest Light Rail is back in the news. This is a project that just will not die. It's way over time and over budget, but that doesn't stop our unaccountable Met Council from pushing it forward. $2.7 billion is the new projected cost for the project, and there is no consideration for the inflation we've all incurred (or that inflation is nowhere near its peak). Now they want an independent audit to decide if all the cash has been spent wisely. We don't need an audit to say that there's tons of waste, but they will never ask the question "if" this should still be done at all.

This project has been bungled from the Met Council, to the Legislature, Hennepin County, and down to the local governments. People like Rep Ryan Winkler acknowledge how expensive it's already been, but used that as an excuse as to why it has to be finished. Sen Melissa Franzen says that we must protect their investment by finishing the project. That doesn't even make sense! Protect the money by spending more money? Governor Walz wants the audit, but has more money set aside for Southwest in his budget. Our government is dead set on making this unsustainable boondoggle a reality, no matter the harm it causes the everyday resident. I guess that it's more important to look fashionable than to do your job to protect the people.

We also take a look at the new redistricting plans that were released by the state. It's not all bad?

Have you checked out our Spotify playlist? At the beginning of each episode, Jason quotes some song lyrics that have to do with the subject matter of the podcast. Andrew never knows what they are, but now he can… and so can you! We’ve launched the Spotify playlist: “Community Solutions Music From the Podcast!” You can listen to Roundabout from Yes after listing to Episode 30 on Roundabouts… or kick back and enjoy a rocking playlist just for the thrill of it. We add a new song every week. Subscribe and enjoy!

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