The CATS election is over. The tax passed. That result leaves many in our city filled with hope for the future. I know a strong and dependable bus system is not the sole source of Baton Rouge’s salvation, but it will help the city — all of the city — move toward a better future.
The campaign before Saturday’s election — and the debate over a companion bill in the Legislature — grew rough, the words sometimes extreme. Even after the result was final, the election exposed raw nerves and deep resentment.
The tax victory was an answer to the prayers of many. I will keep up my prayers, now for a more-unified city (and city-parish). As Baton Rouge moves into the future, I will pray for continued progress and more togetherness. I pray for understanding by — and understanding of — people from all parts of the parish and from all walks of life.
A remade bus system is an important improvement to Baton Rouge. I am confident CATS will be regular enough and reliable enough for me and many other drivers to ride the bus to work. I pray the transformation will be so complete that, when the tax comes up for renewal in 10 years, areas currently outside the city limits will ask to be included in the system.
Chris Frink, executive director
Louisiana House Democratic Caucus
Baton Rouge
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