The KC Ingram Show radio

I WILL NOT USE, SHARE, OR RETAIN YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS.

THIS PETITION IS FOR THE CITY OF STUART MEETING ON 9/9 AND MARTIN COUNTY MEETING ON 9/10.

In 2018, Brightline signed a settlement with the county, agreeing to fund 50% of a new station to be built on the Treasure Coast. Fast forward to 2023, when Martin County and the City of Stuart submitted a formal proposal to Brightline for a station, still following the original terms. In March 2024, Brightline selected Martin County’s proposal but renegotiated the terms with county and city staff.

Now, Martin County residents find themselves facing a stark reality: county and city staff have committed $45 million for the station, even though the City of Stuart claims the station’s actual cost would be closer to $13 million. Supporters of the train station argue that the station should be built at any cost, seemingly indifferent to the financial burden this will place on Martin County and Stuart taxpayers.

The time for public input is critical. Stuart and Martin County Commissions will vote on 9/9 and 9/10, respectively, on whether taxpayers should be responsible for 100% of the station’s costs. Taxpayers object to Brightline reneging on its agreement to pay half. Furthermore, despite county and city officials aggressively pursuing grants to alleviate the financial strain since last December, grants have not materialized. Instead, the county and city are now considering borrowing the $45 million, a move that could ultimately cost taxpayers between $60 and $80 million in the long run.

With Brightline facing over $5,350,000,000, yes $5 BILLION, in debt and seen as a risky investment, it’s more important than ever for county and city commissioners to stand by the original agreement and protect the financial interests of residents. Now is the time for the community to speak up and demand accountability. In addition, Brightline is focusing on its original business plan of shuttling people between Orlando and Miami in less than three hours, and in May, Brightline announced it was going to end South Florida commuter discounts, focusing on long-distance passengers. Brightline is only committing to two northbound and two southbound stops per day in Stuart. Average ticket prices are $23-$28 one-way short distance and $79-$199 one-way long distance. Brightline will charge residents to park on our property, keeping the revenue.

Brightline should have skin in the game and abide by its original agreement. The station costs should not fall 100% on the hard-working residents of Martin County, many of whom can’t afford to use the train but will be forced to pay for its infrastructure, for the benefit of a few.

After signing – you will be sent an e-mail to confirm that you are not a bot. Please check your e-mail after signing and reply back. Thank You in advance for your support.

Thank you, Platinum Sponsors!

Thank you, Silver Sponsors!