The Metro Council was not fully informed about the significant modifications required to implement a light rail system, and was advised that technological obsolescence was not a concern. Members of the Metropolitan King County Council's Management, Labor, and Customer Services Committee were briefed on the audit, which was requested by the Council earlier this year. King County Councilmember Kent Pullen, chair of the committee, praised the audit but expressed disappointment at its results and conclusions.
Taxpayers have every right to be upset and angry.
The audit was conducted to determine whether the rail currently installed in the tunnel would meet requirements for a light rail system. In addition, auditors assessed whether Metro management was aware of and fully informed the Metro Council about the possible future replacement or modifications of the existing rails. The audit covers a time period prior to Metro's merger with King County. References to the Metro Council refer to the old federated body that oversaw Metro's operation. That governing body included elected representatives of King County, the City of Seattle, suburban cities, and sewer and water districts.