Hamilton councillors have rejected the idea of providing free transit during smog days or heat alerts.

"We can provide the leadership, we can provide the vision," said a passionate Ward 4 Councillor Sam Merulla in support of the motion.

"It's an affordability issue. Five dollars per litre gas is around the corner. The future is public transit. If you are not part of the solution you are the problem."

He pointed out the free transit day proposal has received an enthusiastic reception across Canada and internationally.

"The only criticism is locally," he said. "That's something that's inevitable."

The public works committee last week approved establishing free transit this year when it has been declared a smog or heat alert day. But it would only be provided for two days. However, during their July 10 council meeting, politicians rejected the idea in a 6-6 vote. Councillors opposed a motion to have the idea deferred. A tie vote means the recommendation is defeated.

Mr. Merulla has championed the idea of providing free transit since last December when councillors raised transit fares.

He suggested the estimated cost to provide two free days of transit -- $100,000 to $120,000 -- wouldn't hit taxpayers this year. Transit officials estimate it costs $50,000 per day in lost revenue to provide free transit.

"This is about showing leadership," said Ward 1 Councillor Brian McHattie. "As a city you have to step up. Here is a chance to make a statement."

Opponents of the motion, while they agreed with the idea, said it failed as policy at the moment.

"I'm concerned we are doing it on only two smog days," said Stoney Creek Councillor Brad Clark.

"It is the right thing to do," added Dundas councillor Russ Powers, "but it is about practicality. I don't think we can give it the appropriate action."

Ancaster councillor Lloyd Ferguson said councillors are wrestling with a $7.6 million budget deficit this year, and to add $120,000 to the deficit is "irresponsible" to taxpayers.

"The taxpayer has had enough," he said.

Public Works general manager Scott Stewart warned councillors staff would "struggle" with implementing the program. He said at the earliest, the free transit days would begin in late August or early September.