Here is some unsolicited, friendly advice. The Office needs to provide an accounting of the Utility Franchise Fee that opponents of the proposal are talking about so much. Specifically: when was it enacted, and for what purpose? Was it an existing fee, a portion of which was directed to street maintenance, or was it a new fee specifically designed to raise money for street maintenance? A copy of the ordinance would be great.

Then, identify when and why that money was directed away from street maintenance. Rumor has it that Mayor Clark’s original proposal brought in $18 million annually (~20 years ago). What is that money earmarked for today? Streetcar operations, general fund, day labor hiring center? People are assuming the worst out there. Again, ordinances or budget line items would be very instructive. Demonstrate that there was a valid purpose for dissolving what was essentially a street maintenance trust fund, and you will neutralize one of the most potent weapons your opponents have.