Public transportation, or mass transit as it is often called, was a major topic of discussion in Hamilton County early last year. A voter referendum was being considered and supporters of extending the Indianapolis Red Line bus route into the county were encouraging it through “public education.”

There was no referendum in Clay and Washington townships, where it was proposed that voters would be asked if they wished to have an increase in their local income tax to partially pay for the bus service to downtown Indianapolis.

Supporters decided the vote would be delayed until 2018.

But now, probably not. Although no final decision has been made, it is likely to be delayed again. County Commissioner Christine Altman said Friday that she does not feel “there is the will to push it” at this time. She feels more education will be needed before the issue goes on the ballot.

Indianapolis is proceeding with the Red Line plans which will see new electric powered buses running through the city as far north as Broad Ripple in the next few years. But the plan is getting opposition from some property owners along College Avenue where special lanes and waiting stations are planned.

Ms. Altman has been a major advocate for mass transit, and the Red Line in particular, which would take the bus route through the Carmel and Westfield areas as far north as Grand Park.

But various local issues, including the fact that next year will be an off-year election, has led her to doubt 2018 would be the best time to go to voters with the tax proposal. That proposal, if approved, would increase the county income tax from its current one percent to one and a quarter percent.