Metrolink Contract

Re “Metrolink Hires Company That Was Fired by MTA,” Jan. 21:

The Southern California Regional Rail Authority Board, operators of Metrolink, stands by the decision to award the contract to L.A. Federal Coin. We do so primarily because that firm submitted the lowest price proposal. Although its qualifications were scored second to the competing firm, its scores were the highest overall. It should also be clarified that prior to bringing the item before the board, Metrolink staff investigated every relevant issue and allegation raised in the article. There are no known issues that have not been addressed by Metrolink staff. In fact, to ensure proper service quality, I have asked staff to conduct performance and financial audits regularly. Taxpayers and Metrolink will benefit by saving more than $500,000 over three years.

The article failed to mention that following MTA’s dismissal of L.A. Federal Coin, there was no evidence that the MTA took any action to preclude or debar the company from future jobs with it. Finally, there are 18 client companies ranging from an amusement park, banks and the Orange County Transportation Authority that are pleased with the firm’s performance.

SARAH L. CATZ

Metrolink Board Chair