I noted with interest OneRedmond CEO Bart Phillip’s comments on the Sound Transit 3 measure being developed for the November ballot, and OneRedmond’s insistence that preliminary engineering for the downtown Redmond extension begin immediately. I share OneRedmond’s position that LINK light rail to downtown will be transformative, and will have huge benefits for Redmond businesses and citizens alike. For that, I say bravo, One Redmond!

That said, some of the specifics of CEO Phillips letter deserve comment. First, Sound Transit already did preliminary engineering for the line years ago as a funded mandate of ST2. This work established the preferred route, station locations and right of way for the line.

The comment that has me shaking my head is Phillips’ insistence that Sound Transit begin engineering work on a line that has not yet been approved by the voters. OneRedmond can dependably be relied upon to oppose unfunded mandates when it applies to their members, but apparently it’s perfectly acceptable when others are picking up the majority of the tab. As an organization which has received public funds in the past, OneRedmond should certainly understand the need to maintain fiscal accountability and transparency.

Again, I want ST3, and I’m delighted to see OneRedmond come out strong for light rail to downtown. Talk, of course, is cheap. If OneRedmond really wants to do something positive, it needs to get up from the table and devote their collective time, talent and treasure to making ST3 as robust a proposal for the Eastside as possible, and work both tirelessly and collectively to ensure its passage in November.

Phil Miller

Redmond