Mayor Dave Bing has recently come under fire for suggesting that Detroit cut bus service on some routes, in order to assist in stopping an ever-increasing budget deficit. In my view, the bus service is an important aspect of our city government and should be a last resort. However, because of our dire financial situation, a little pain will be necessary. The bottom line is this: Our city services are set up for a population of well over a million residents. It's been some time since our city has had that size population; we stand at about 800,000 currently.
We have to cut somewhere, and cuts need to start at the top. Mayor Bing has done this, by not taking a salary and living in his own residence, rather than the city-owned mansion.
Over 30% of Detroit households do not own a car, which complicates the situation. Busses are one of the most important services Detroit provides to its residents. Many of the proposed routes to be cut are unfrequently used and liabilities to the city.
We've gotten into trouble before by spending money that we don't have, and it's time to stop. Mayor Bing is to be commended for putting the cities longterm interest ahead of opinion polls and his political future. I'd rather see busses cut than police officers taken off the street, and if you look at our rising crime statistics, you will likely agree.
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