Chevy Chase, MD (March 31, 2014) -- Once again, the Action for Committee for Transit (ACT) is acting in a misleading and irresponsible manner. In its press release of March 31, ACT falsely asserts that the Town acted illegally in interviewing firms to assist us in responding to the proposed Purple Line project. In fact, the Town is very pleased that the Open Meetings Compliance Board recently upheld the legality of our actions.
In late January, the Action Committee for Transit (ACT) filed a complaint with the Board suggesting that the Town violated the Maryland Open Meetings Act law by discussing certain matters in executive session and not in an open session. In its written decision, the Board determined that the topics discussed in the executive session complied with the law. In the same decision, the Board noted some technical deficiencies and counseled the Town on proper administrative procedures, which we intend to adhere to in the future.
“We are very pleased that the Town was vindicated on the specific issues raised in the complaint. The topics discussed in the executive session clearly complied with the law. Rather than engaging on the merits of the proposed Purple Line project, ACT is engaging in distraction,” said Mayor Pat Burda.
The Purple Line project is among the most pressing priorities for the residents of the Town of Chevy Chase. Its current configuration has the potential to permanently and severely degrade the quality of life of many of our neighbors in profound and unfair ways. There are many other options for the Purple Line that will be more affordable, safer, cause less noise and environmental disturbance, and improve transportation options in the region all without trampling the rights of our residents and destroying a beloved regional trail.
As is well known, the Town has hired experts to help us manage the process of responding to this major transportation development project. The consultant’s work will be important because the current version of the Purple Line will not enhance access to transit, will not take cars off the roads and will not reduce energy consumption -- but it will cost taxpayers $2.2 billion.