ONTARIO - The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce wants to see an independent transit commission operate the city's bus system and a potential future light-rail line.

The chamber's transportation committee is arguing the Hamilton Street Railway should be divorced from politics and be overseen by a corporation that includes voices from business and users.

"Whenever there are transit enhancements or changes made, they are politically motivated, rather than business-case oriented," said Dan Rodrigues, chairperson of the chamber's transportation committee.

The chamber began this debate with the city close to two years ago. A staff report last month argued the current model of integrating transit fully as a city department is the best for Hamilton.

Currently, the transit system, and its operating budget of about $87 million this year, is overseen by councillors who sit on the public works committee.

The chamber made another pitch for a commission to that committee last week.

Rodrigues says the city hasn't cut Hamilton Street Railway service in underused areas or rationalized routes because councillors don't want to suffer political heat.