Anti-Rail Expansion Group Set to Issue Report Cards Grading Candidates on All Aboard Florida

The Coalition Against Rail Expansion in Florida (CARE FL), created by a group of concerned community leaders, organizations and neighbors in the Treasure Coast and north Palm Beach County regions, announced Tuesday a survey has been sent to candidates seeking public office in those regions. CARE FL wants to find out where candidates stand on rail expansion and will communicate the answers to the community in a “report card.”
 
“For the past two years, we have worked closely with elected leaders, business leaders and first responders in this region to educate the public on the negative impacts of the Brightline/All Aboard Florida (AAF) project,” said Jane Feinstein, community volunteer and member of the CARE FL Steering Committee who serves as the chairman of the group’s survey initiative. 

“Until Election Day and beyond, we will actively pursue all possible legal and public communication channels to stop the ill-conceived AAF rail project that will destroy our quality of life and put our residents in harm’s way,” she said.
 
CARE FL sent the survey instrument to candidates for U.S. Senate, Congressional District 18, the Florida Legislature, and county commissions in Martin, Indian River, St. Lucie and Palm Beach counties -- some 120 in total.
 
The survey has 12 questions that are qualitative and quantitative, and allows for additional comments. Responses are due back to the group by Friday, June 17, so that results can be compiled and communicated to voters well before early voting and the distribution of absentee ballots for the Aug. 30 primary.
 
“Our concerns are based upon the financial implications of rail expansion for communities and municipalities, as well as on safety, environmental and waterway impact,” added Brent Hanlon, Chairman of the CARE FL Steering Committee. “Our goal is to protect the safety, welfare and way of life for the families, businesses and retirees who live in our communities.”