Letters to the Editor, Oct. 29

It’s time for unity

Thanks to Mr. Wierdsma for his piece on the huge and ever-growing divide between both political parties, a well-written editorial. Having said that, I have an opinion as to the cause for said divide.

President Clinton many years back, was able to pass “Don’t ask, Don’t Tell” with bipartisan support. Both sides were not happy, but both could live with it and it worked well for decades. Today, the Clintons have both apologized for that bill as they have “evolved”, and Hillary needed ultra-left votes. During Obama’s tenure, if you vandalized and robbed a retail store, you got arrested, charged, needed bail and likely were convicted. Today, again thanks to the radical left, it’s no bail, no real charges and at most a slap on the wrist. I could go on for paragraphs, but space is limited. I contend the right are more right and more determined than ever solely because of the left’s complete inability not just to compromise, but to behave in a rational, law-abiding manner. Yes, both parties need to grow up, but if common sense, let alone law and order are out the window, there is little hope for us all.

Dan Misko, Felton

In response to Della Davis

This is a response to Della Davis’ letter published in the Pajaronian (10/22/21). The TIG/m Coast Futura Light Rail Vehicle is limited to 10mph by the Federal Rail Administration due to the poor condition of the rails on the Santa Cruz Branch Line.

This environmentally sound electric rail vehicle is capable of operating at speeds up to 30-50 mph and would do so once the rails are repaired and upgraded to Class 3 standard.

The idea of just a “tourist train” and not a viable transit entity for commuters is an erroneous and deceptive tactic put forth by the affluent anti-rail folks who have a self-serving agenda. Also, a single track can support a bi-directional light rail vehicle such as the TIG/m.

In my opinion Rail With Trail is the best option for the historic Santa Cruz Branch rail line that would benefit all.

Gary V. Plomp, Gilroy

We need to get the facts straight

Yesterday I was able to participate in the Coast Futura trolley demonstration. What a wonderful option for the branch rail line in Our county. The only negative I heard was that the ride was too short. With funding being allocated for new rail services nationwide, I think it would be wise to get our ducks in a row and apply when the window opens. Hopefully, the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission (SCCRTC) will continue pursuing this opportunity for the benefit of all. While I sympathize with the trail-only groups, It is hard to imagine how a trail will benefit commuters that rely on the limited highway 1 corridor. Even with all the Measure D widening funds, it is hard to imagine any real relief, considering past widening. Why not go for a real solution, a trail with clean light rail and buses at endpoints. For some reason the trail-only groups are spreading misinformation regarding railbanking, expenses and more falsehoods. We have a chance to have an option that will serve locals and visitors for generations to come. For your concerns, get real facts at the SCCRTC site. And leave comments. They have done extensive studies and the rail with trail always came out as the best option. Let’s do it!

Frank Rimicci, Jr., Corralitos

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