As Rebecca Saltzman, a current BART Director, runs for El Cerrito City Council, her track record of leadership at BART raises significant concerns. Her tenure at BART has been marred by financial mismanagement, safety concerns, and questionable policy decisions. Under her watch, BART now faces a $7 million payout to six former employees, thanks to a federal jury’s ruling on the COVID vaccine mandate.
Leading BART to Financial Ruin
Saltzman has played a key role in BART’s financial decisions, many of which have left the agency teetering on the edge of a fiscal cliff. One glaring issue is the failure to address rampant fare evasion, which has severely impacted revenue. Instead of implementing effective measures to curb fare evasion and protect BART’s budget, Saltzman’s leadership has allowed these issues to fester, putting additional strain on an already struggling transit system.
Ignoring Safety and Fare Evasion
Beyond financial woes, Saltzman has also presided over a decline in safety for both passengers and staff. The rise in fare evasion is not just a financial issue but also a safety concern, as fare evasion often correlates with other safety risks. Recently, one patron was pushed in front of a train by a transient Despite these glaring issues, Saltzman has been slow to enact meaningful policies to protect BART’s riders and workforce. This inaction raises questions about how she would prioritize the safety and financial health of El Cerrito if elected to the City Council.
The COVID Vaccine Mandate Controversy
Most recently, Saltzman’s oversight at BART has resulted in a $7 million legal settlement. Six former BART employees who were fired due to the agency’s COVID vaccine mandate successfully sued, claiming their religious exemptions were not accommodated. While BART initially granted vaccine exemptions, the plaintiffs argued they were not offered reasonable accommodations, such as working remotely or regular COVID testing, which led to their termination. A federal jury sided with the plaintiffs, awarding each over $1 million—a costly verdict for an agency already struggling to stay afloat.
What Does This Mean for El Cerrito?
As Saltzman campaigns for El Cerrito City Council, voters should scrutinize her record at BART. Her failure to address critical issues like fare evasion and safety, combined with her role in the costly vaccine mandate lawsuit, raises serious doubts about her ability to lead effectively. Can El Cerrito afford to take on leadership with such a track record? Voters must consider whether Saltzman’s decision-making at BART reflects the type of leadership they want for their city.
Saltzman’s legacy at BART is one of financial missteps and increased risks for the public and staff. As she seeks a new role in El Cerrito, it’s crucial for voters to weigh the consequences of her policies and the impact they could have on the city’s future.
El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 