Measure A proponents ironically claim its suburban sprawl-inducing projects are a weapon against climate change

In a case of never letting the truth get in the way of a story, proponents of Sacramento County’s Measure A have distributed a mailer with an outrageous claim.

In a glossy piece received yesterday, proponents say, “Measure A is a weapon in the fight against Climate Change.” Not surprisingly, the claim is without attribution.

Along with testimonials from Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg and Sacramento County Supervisor Phil Serna, the mailer makes several promises. Among them are the extension of Sacramento Regional Transit’s Light Rail Service to Elk Grove, expanded bus service, and more zero-emission buses.

Environmental groups like the Coalition for Clean Air and the California Air Resources Board (CARB), who oppose the measure, have argued that A’s funding priorities will prevent the Sacramento region from attaining its air quality standards. Specifically, funding for projects like the Capitol Southeast Connector project continues Sacramento’s suburban sprawl and reliane on cars.

In a letter to Sacramento Transporation Authority’s board president, Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen, CARB warned of the detrimental effect of Measure A’s approval. Among them, the expansion of roadway projects would increase vehicle miles traveled and greenhouse gas emissions, and “the region may face serious compliance challenges with State emissions reductions requirements.” (see letter below).

Measure A proponents are funded by construction companies and billionaire real estate developers who are beneficiaries of the Capital Southeast Connector road. That roadway, connecting I-5 in Elk Grove to U.S. 50 in El Dorado Hills on a path following Grant Line Road, will open large swaths of land for suburban housing developments.

Opposition to the 40-year $8.5 billion tax has attracted opposition from disparate groups, including the Sacramento County Republican Party, several area Democratic clubs, anti-tax activists, and environmentalists. Notwithstanding the grassroots opposition, the Yes on Measure is well funded, needs only a simple majority for approval, and is expected to pass.

Let’s hope voters remember the saying that you are entitled to your opinion but not your own set of facts and reject the scheme.