Steve: I believe growing our economic base is key to rebuilding Portland's basic infrastructure. The more successful our local companies are at selling their goods and services around the globe, the more businesses profits and jobs at home and the government revenues to build and maintain infrastructure and operate our schools. In terms of the $30 million excess city revenues in the past four years you mention, about 20% went to basic street maintenance and safety projects (a 100% increase). In addition, using the coming energy tax windfalls, last month, the City Council doubled its ongoing general fund commitment to street and bridge maintenance. Getting these recent funding increases for basic transportation services approved was challenging. I missed seeing you weigh in with your support for them. I encourage you to do so in the future. Sam