Democrats to discuss future of public transit in Washtenaw County at Saturday forum

The discussion is being moderated by Michael Henry, co-chair of the Ann Arbor Democratic Party. Henry said he's expecting discussion of the proposed countywide transit authority, the four-party agreement the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority is waiting for the county and Ypsilanti to approve, transit funding sources and tax burdens throughout the county.

Panelists for the discussion include:

• Jesse Bernstein, AATA board chairman
• Sabra Briere, Ann Arbor City Council member
• Stephen Kunselman, Ann Arbor City Council member
• Many Grewal, Pittsfield Township supervisor
• Vivienne Armentrout, former Washtenaw County commissioner and local blogger
• Lois Richardson, Ypsilanti mayor pro tem (invited not confirmed)
• Gretchen Driskell, Saline mayor (invited not confirmed)

The Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners is expected to hold a working session on March 22 to discuss the AATA transit expansion and consider the four-party agreement for a countywide authority in April. The Ann Arbor City Council already approved the agreement.

Organizers say the event is family friendly and light activities for children will be provided. Anyone with crayons and art supplies to donate are encouraged to bring them.

For more information, contact Mary Hall-Thiam at mhallthiam@gmail.com or 734-635-2967.