COAST applauds Hamilton County Commission
for re-appointment of Stephan Louis to SORTA Board

Louis earned his stripes defeating light rail tax

COAST applauds Hamilton County Commissioners Phil Heimlich and Pat DeWine for re-appointing Stephan Louis to the Board of Trustees of the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA). The appointment was for Louis' second three-year term on the Board, where he serves as Vice Chairman.

Stephan Louis first earned his stripes in public policy by opposing the 2002 proposal for a 1/2 ¢ increase in the County sales tax to fund a boondoggle $4.7 billion light rail system for the County. Louis led a "No" campaign that garnered 69% of the vote, effectively shutting down pro-high-tax, light rail endeavors.

"Stephan Louis is a giant in the fight for responsible policies against unrestrained government growth," said COAST Chairman Jim Urling. "He is exactly the type of principled advocate of limited and efficient government we need on public boards throughout the County."

Currently, Commissioner Todd Portune and light rail activist John Schneider are waging a campaign to undermine Louis' good name and service. COAST thanks Stephan both for his service and his willingness to endure barbs from the radical left for following his limited government principles.