Under the plan, the MTA will tax the payrolls of all schools, hospitals, governments, nonprofit organizations and private businesses in the 12 counties the agency purports to serve. We'll see little direct benefit from the bailout, or at least less benefit than we expect to see harm from taxing local small businesses, schools and nonprofits.
In late March, we called the MTA's plan "nothing short of stealing, but with the state's blessing." And despite a stipulation that provides for "the intent" of reimbursing school districts, we stand by our remarks.
And we're disappointed in Mr. Foley.
Mr. Foley's flip-flop on this issue is a perfect example of long-range politics triumphing over good government. Instead of looking at one bill on its own merit, Mr. Foley chose to look at the big picture when he reached an agreement with his fellow Senate Democrats -- most of whom come from New York City -- to support the MTA bailout despite the public opinion and public interest of the voters in his district. Why would he do that? Because Mr. Foley knows that over time he will need their support if he is to push through his own legislation.
The people of southwestern Brookhaven and Islip Town elected Mr. Foley to represent their interests in Albany, not the interests of city politicians whose constituents see the most benefit from a healthier MTA.
So much for representative democracy.
Which brings to mind something else we wrote on this same page last month, while under the impression Mr. Foley would reject this plan, as his vote was crucial: "Mr. Foley should be commended. He stepped up when other suburban Democrats remained silent."
We urge readers to call Mr. Foley at 631-360-3356 to express outrage over his flip-flop and support of a tax in order to assuage his party leadership at the expense of his home base.