The vice chair of the New York State Thruway Authority is speaking out. Donna Luh of Depew says she is angry that the Authority continues to work in secrecy over a proposed 45 percent toll increase for commercial trucks.
For the second time in a week, the New York State Thruway Authority abruptly canceled a planned board meeting that was scheduled to be held Tuesday morning.
The Thruway Authority is under tight public scrutiny for its proposal to raise truck tolls 45 percent.
Luh is outraged for the Authority's failure to meet. She says she believes it's creating a credibility problem with the public.
Luh tells WBFO News as of right now, she would not support the toll hike.
"As of right now, no," said Luh. "To me right now, how do go out and tell everyone you really need this when we keep canceling meetings. What are we doing? It's highly frustrating."
Executive director of the Thruway Authority Tom Madison issued a statement Tuesday afternoon saying the proposed truck toll is a "complex issue" and requires more time for the board members to consider.
"It's terrible. The other board members are frustrated too," noted Luh. "45% is a big amount for the local truckers and its not fair to them."
State Assemblyman Sean Ryan of Buffalo is also demanding answers from the Thruway Authority. Ryan is calling on the Authority to publicly disclose their agenda prior to any upcoming board meetings.
State Senator Patrick Gallivan is urging the Authority to avoid a toll increase.