After nearly 6 years, the purchase of the 32-mile Union Pacific rail line in Santa Cruz, CA is almost complete.  The funds to purchase the rail line were made available through a voter approved initiative whose deadline in June 30.  Supporters of the purchase say this will add much to the community.  Plans include a dinner train as well as hiking and biking paths. The Regional Transportation Commission believes everything could be complete by May.  Check out mercurynews.com for more information.

Purchase of Union Pacific Rail Line Picks Up Steam is a post from: Intelligent Vote 2012

Sparked by the tragic deaths of four Lakewood police officers gunned down in a local coffee shop, Washington lawmakers have taken great steps to prevent this from happening again.  The bail bill will allow judges more authority to deny bail to suspects who could be facing life sentences and have demonstrated that they are a danger to society.  The bill would also revoke the ability to book bail without first seeing a judge.  Having already passed overwhelming in the House, it will now go to the voters for final approval. For more information visit the Seattle Times online at seattletimes.nwsource.com.

Historic Bail Bill Gets Passed to Voters is a post from: Intelligent Vote 2012

Race tracks have been the site of gambling and betting since their inception hundreds of years ago; however, there are many in New Jersey who feel that that is no longer enough.  In order to keep up with the competition presented by a newly expanded race track in New York, many believe that it is time to add video lottery terminals to Meadowlands racetrack.  The racetrack currently receives a portion of its funding from state subsidies but they believe they could increase revenue and maintain their customer base with the addition of these machines.  They are hoping to take the vote to the people soon.  More information can be found here.

Voters Anticipate Changes at the Racetrack is a post from: Intelligent Vote 2012

San Francisco has always been a city on the cusp of change and debate, and now is no exception. As anyone who has ever visited knows, San Francisco relies heavily on its public transportation system. However, as budget deficits increase lawmakers are considering even greater cuts in services. Those who utilize the various transportation services have already experienced an increase in prices and will now face a possible 10% cut in services. Transportation advocate Dave Snyder is encouraging voters to attend the town hall meetings and let the mayor and the MTA board know that there are other options. To learn more visit www.sfbg.com/politics.

San Francisco Debates Cuts in Public Transportation is a post from: Intelligent Vote 2012