Before King City residents vote in the Sept. 18 special election, they will be hearing a lot about a ballot measure that excludes the city from participating in any kind of “public rail transit system” discussions or actions.

Anti-light rail proponents believe it is not necessary or worth the cost to pursue, and they are seeking to preemptively remove the issue from even being considered by the city councils in not only KIng City but also Tigard, Tualatin and Sherwood.

On the other hand, King City council members insist that as a metro-area partner, King City should be involved in discussions and decisions about future forms of transportation that will impact the city.

If the measure passes, they cite such examples as the City Hall receptionist not being able to answer questions from the public about bus routes, city staff on official business in other cities not being able to use public transportation, and city officials having to excuse themselves from meetings when public transportation is discussed.

In these situations, the city would indirectly be spending funds on transportation, which is not allowed under the measure unless a special election is held to approve the expenditure. Voters are encouraged to learn the facts before they vote.