Form letter that goes out when people answer the survey

I want to extend a “thank you” to everyone who provided feedback about TriMet’s budget options in our interactive Challenges & Choices survey. Since we launched the site back on December 14, more than 4,800 of you weighed in.

That’s a great response—and a reminder that not only do riders and residents care deeply about transit in our region, they are eager to participate in the decision-making process and make their voices heard. I am truly impressed by the level of participation so far, and, naturally, I share your passion.
Our intent behind the online survey was to raise awareness about how our budget works and what the options are—and to find out what is most important to riders and the community. We’re also reaching out to business leaders and community groups to get their feedback, and our 12-member Budget Task Force will provide their expert analysis and recommendations as well. Last Thursday, I hosted our first-ever Twitter town hall, in which I answered budget-related questions in a live Q & A format. This weekend, I’ll be talking about TriMet’s budget on KGW NewsChannel 8’s “Straight Talk”, which airs Saturday at 6:30 p.m.
So, what’s next? We have begun preparing an official proposal for how to address our expected budget shortfall, based on the feedback we have received to date, recommendations from our Budget Task Force, and our own internal analysis. This proposal will be available for public review in early February, at which time we’ll be holding several community open houses so you can speak to a TriMet representative and share your feedback in person, if you prefer.
Again, thank you for your feedback and support. Most of all, thank you for riding TriMet. I’ll see you on board!

 

Best,
Neil McFarlane
TriMet General Manager