Now that the Highways and Transportation Commission has approved a final project list for the Amendment 7 ballot issue, it’s not going to totally step away from the issue.

“We’re not part of a campaign. That’s left to other people,” says Chairman Stephen Miller of Kansas City, “We’ll be a resource to anyone that needs education about these projects.”

The projects total more than 800, ranging from a stretch of sidewalk in some communities to the $500-million dollar expansion of 200 miles of Interstate 70 from four lanes to six. All of them hinge on voter approval of a three-quarters of one-cent sales tax on August 5. Opponents say that tax increase would disproportionately burden the poorest 20% of Missourians.

Governor Jay Nixon (D) has been one such critic. Asked about Nixon’s opposition, Miller, who was appointed by Nixon, says it is the governor’s prerogative as it is for any Missouri voter, to evaluate the project list and the potential impacts of the tax.

“We’re prepared to let all voices be heard in that process, including our public leaders,” says Miller.

Miller is asked about Governor’ Nixon’s opposition to the transportation tax proposal: