Mayor Dave Cieslewicz's proposed 50 cent bus fare increase is creating tension with the city's Transit and Parking Commission.

Cieslewicz, who proposed the increase to $2 for a basic cash fare, recently told City Council members that he'd "abolish" the TPC or not reappoint members if the commission doesn't follow the council's wishes on an increase.

"It was an expression of real frustration that unelected individuals could stand in the way of a policy change made by elected officials," Cieslewicz said later, acknowledging that he lacks authority to abolish the TPC but can choose not to reappoint members.

The proposed fare increases would generate $682,000 and let Metro Transit expand service and boost programs to help low-income riders, Cieslewicz said.

A 25 cent increase is needed just to maintain current services, he said.

On Oct. 27, the city's Board of Estimates voted 4-2 to affirm the fare increase in its recommendation to the full council.

Two days later, at a lunch with council members, TPC member and Ald. Robbie Webber, 5th District, reminded the mayor that the TPC has the authority to set fares and balance Metro's budget though service cuts or other means.

Cieslewicz slammed his hand on a table and said he'd abolish the commission if it ignored the council's wishes, council members attending the meeting said. The mayor also said he might not reappoint TPC members.

"I took him seriously; he was so mad," said Ald. Marsha Rummel, 6th District, "He's usually cautious and reasoned."

Ald. Mark Clear, 19th District, who attended the meeting, said, "I don't know if this was a serious threat or an emotional reaction ... It was a threat in response to (Webber's) threat."

Transit commission chairman Carl Durocher said there's "great reluctance" to impose a fare increase because the Metro is trying to boost ridership.

The commission is not a "rubber stamp," Durocher said.

The mayor said he would not take a rebuff lightly.

"It would lead me to question whether or not these (commission members) should continue," he said. "It would raise questions about their judgment."