I’d just like to quickly promote the upcoming forum/debate on the proposed half-cent Metro tax for buses and light rail that will be on the ballot in April. The forum takes place this Monday, March 15, at 11:45 a.m., at the Center of Clayton — just west of downtown Clayton by the high school (on Gay Ave., just south of Maryland). Feel free to bring your lunch; it should last about an hour.

Mayor John Nations of Chesterfield will speak in favor of the tax increase, and John Burns, head of Citizens for Better Transit, will speak in opposition. I think they will both be very good, and it should be a worthwhile debate. The only thing I can personally guarantee is that everything will go according to the time schedule, because yours truly will serve as the timekeeper. The Clayton Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the event, and everyone is welcome to attend. Please call the chamber at (314) 726-3033 if you have any questions, and to register.

Here are a few of the items that the Show-Me Institute has published about this important issue.