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Last week, the Metrolink board considered adopting a 4.5 percent system-wide fare increase and to transfer rate changes to help the agency address increased operating costs and an increase in the rate paid to other connecting transit operators in Los Angeles County. However, after reviewing public comments — which included concerns about the financial hardships passengers would face with increased fares — the board decided to defer its decision.

Instead, Metrolink submitted its proposed 2009-2010 budget to the five member agencies that comprise the Metrolink's joint powers authority. Metrolink will conduct an "extended review" of all options to address its budget deficit with the member agencies before revisiting the fare hike option at its May 15 meeting, Metrolink said.