In 2016, Debora Allen joined BART BOD promising to bring common-sense leadership to the BART Board of Directors. She focused on improving the safety of BART riders and workers, bringing financial transparency to BART’s $2.4 billion annual budget, and maintaining political independence from special interest groups.
From the onset, Allen understood the immense challenges faced by BART, the nation’s fifth-largest transit agency. Her journey has been an uphill battle, consistently advocating for sound fiscal policies and common-sense measures. The pandemic and a 60% permanent loss in ridership have exacerbated these challenges, yet Allen has diligently worked to bring oversight and accountability, facing structural deficits of over $350 million annually.
Contrastingly, Rebecca Saltzman, an urban director, and majority board member, has often been at odds with Allen’s fiscally responsible approach. Saltzman’s tenure saw her focus on agendas that some argue have hindered BART’s recovery post-pandemic, contributing to its ongoing financial woes. In fact, she voted against Allen’s cost reduction requests every year Now, Saltzman has announced she will not seek re-election to the BART Board but will instead run for the El Cerrito City Council. This move has raised concerns, as she transitions from one financially troubled institution to another.
However, one might wonder if the financial turmoil BART faces also influenced her decision. Is it possible that she wants to distance herself from the fiscal challenges BART is facing, or is she genuinely motivated to bring about positive change in El Cerrito?
Saltzman’s 2024 campaign yard sign reads “experience matters” We couldn’t agree more. Saltzman has been on the BART BOD since 2012 – for 12 years
BART is grappling with severe financial difficulties driven by a sustained decline in ridership, escalating operational costs, and mounting pension liabilities. The agency’s fare revenues have not kept pace with rising expenses, particularly in areas like maintenance and pension obligations, putting additional strain on the budget. Efforts to maintain service levels have further stressed financial resources, leading to discussions about potential tax measures, fare increases, and other funding mechanisms to stabilize its financial outlook.
These issues sound strikingly similar to El Cerrito’s problems, where mismanagement and fiscal irresponsibility have plagued the city. Rebecca Saltzman, having played a role in creating these financial and operational challenges at BART, is ill-equipped to address El Cerrito’s financial crisis, given her track record of enabling similar fiscal missteps.
El Cerrito is once again teetering on the brink of bankruptcy under its current city management. Saltzman’s track record at BART, which includes significant financial and operational challenges, raises doubts about her ability to navigate El Cerrito out of its financial turmoil.
While Saltzman’s commitment to public service is evident, her move to El Cerrito’s City Council sparks debate. Will her experience at BART translate into effective governance for El Cerrito, or is this a strategic retreat from a sinking ship? Only time will reveal whether Saltzman can positively impact El Cerrito’s future and steer the city away from the brink of bankruptcy.
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El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 