The minutes of the last Board meeting tell it all. The Board approved
(with one abstention) the purchase of a private company (NWP Co) without
performing due diligence.

Mike Pechner, David Schonbrunn, former NCRA Board member Bernie Meyers, and
long time SMART opponent Mike Arnold all spoke out against the purchase without
considering the risks to the taxpayers. [And when have these four people ever
been in agreement?]

Here's a quote from the minutes of the SMART Board meeting

"Director Phillips voiced his concerns about not having enough financial analysis prior to this approval. He is not sure if this acquisition will yield enough revenue for SMART, which is needed. Also, he is not sure if SMART is equipped to fully take the responsibility of freight. He would like more financial information to review. He asked if there is additional financial information that can be reviewed now or prior to end of June. Mr. Mansourian responded that SMART does not have financial information, the State of California is purchasing the acquisition through SMART. The State of California Task Force have reviewed NCRA and NWPCo financial documents and are satisfied with the results. Once, SMART receives any additional financial correspondence he will provide it to the Board.”