Incompatible and idiosyncratic have been hallmarks of BART since its inception so it seems perfectly appropriate that they deploy 2 different fleets(I assume temporarily). Sort of an extrapolation of their early A and B type car folly.

As to BART's being out of its jurisdiction in Santa Clara I have to think it is question of the camel getting its nose in the tent.

Towns along the route demanding extra perks is a more complicated issue. BART trains are so noisy and their elevated structures are so ugly that I actually think that Berkeley did the right thing in paying extra for their subway. It has proven to be a wise investment. Not to mention the earthquake vulnerability of the elevated structures not anticipated in the early sixties. I know the light rail projects in LA are having problems with the public demanding more grade separation than there is money available. Perhaps if transit followed thru on their promise of incremental improvements the public would be more supportive. Apparently Sacramento light rail recently did built some overpasses, which it had promised as money became available. Kudos. SF Muni take note.

Sometimes exorbitant demands are simply an expression of outright opposition, as in the case of Novato.