HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/02/2008 13 Transit Fare Adjustments - Reconsider Public Hearing Dates BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
0 YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
AGENDA STATEMENT
Item No. ' ( 3
For Meeting of: September 2, 2008
ITEM TITLE: Reconsideration of setting dates of Public Hearings for September 16, 2008 at
7:00 p.m. and September 23, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. to consider Transit Fare
Adjustments
SUBMITTED BY: Chris Waarvick, Director of Public Works
Ken Mehin, Transit Manager
CONTACT PERSON/TELEPHONE: Ken Mehin /576 -6415
SUMMARY EXPLANATION:
This agenda item amends the Council action of August 5, 2008, to set a public hearing for
September 16, 2008 and September 23, 2008, for the purpose of reviewing transit fare
adjustments. The September 16 public hearing will be conducted as part of the Council's
regular Business Meeting. The additional public hearing for September 23, requested by the
Council Transit Committee, will be staffed by the transit employees with possible City Council
members in attendance. Both public hearings will be held at City Hall Council Chambers.
0 Yakima Transit has prepared a draft fare increase to accommodate a portion of the sharp
increase in their fuel cost; which has increased dramatically since January of 2007. Yakima
Transit last raised bus fares in 1995 (14 years ago). While other agencies in the state have
implemented fare increases every 3 to 5 years, Yakima has kept its fares stable being
sensitive to the economic challenges of many of our customers. However, in light of
dramatically increasing fuel costs, it is timely to reassess this position.
The first altemative to be presented was developed last year and only increases "walk on"
fares. This generates around $30,000 total revenue, less implementation costs that are
$5,000 to $8,000 (net $22,000 to 25,000). If fares are raised an additional 10 - 50 cents per
fare category, fares would then be increased to: Adult $.75, Youth $.50 and Reduced $.35
(seniors). Monthly bus pass prices remain the same as now. The Dial -a -Ride fare might be
increased with this alternative to twice the adult fare ($1.50).
(continued)
Resolution Ordinance _ Other (Specify)
Contact Person: Ken Mehin, Transit Manager Phone: 509/576 -6415
Funding Source: Yakima Transit Fare Adjustments
APPROVED FOR SUBMITTAL: \ — City Manager
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff respectfully requests Council to set September 16 and
September 23, 2008 as dates of public hearing.
BOARD / COMMISSION /COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: The Council Transportation/
• Transit Committee recommends holding the Public Hearing prior to Council Action.
COUNCIL ACTION: •
(Continued from page 1)
The second altemative is far more inclusive of fare classes. Should the fuel prices stay high
and /or go even higher, it is strongly suggested increasing the fare rate in all categories,
including bus passes. This increase would generate up to $70,000 in 2009. The Dial -a -Ride
fare will be increased with this altemative.
Transit is forecasting minimal change in Dial -A -Ride usage with the fare increase. Dial -a -Ride
fare increase will generate over $40,000 in revenues.
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