Just so it is out in the public record:

Sam left his job with Vera Katz for two years before he ran for Council and eventually was elected. He wanted to get intimate with the parts of Portland that are hard to see when you are working in City Hall. He wanted to get to know the grassroots of Portland, which is commendable.

His last day in City Hall was August 11th, 2002. The tram came before Council on August 14th, 2002. Sam should be commended for taking on a difficult project (that he previously hadn't worked on or had in-depth knowledge of) and learning the ins-and-outs of the project. He took a hard look at the facts and made the tough decisions needed to ensure compentent management.

I understand that people want scapegoats, but Sam is not your man, guys. He has made difficult governing decisions in the interest of the public, even though it has made some pretty big names in Portland mad. He continues to do what is right for the the City of Portland even though many people in the press don't appreciate that. Sam deserves a little credit, or at the very least, a break.