June 13, 2013
06/14/13 Jackie Wright from Older Adult Services appeared before the Marshall County Council this week “looking for some help to get through 2013.”
Wright talked about the history of transportation services provided by the agency. Over the past three years it has been very successful and they expect that trend to continue. She said, “As the economy goes down public transportation needs go up.” They have expanded to eight vehicles and not only take citizens to the doctor, shopping and appointments they also take some people to work. They also transport veterans to the South Bend, Fort Wayne, Marion and Indianapolis V.A. facilities.
Older Adult Services received a notification letter from INDOT who provides a large share of the transportation funding that there is a significant reduction in funding this year. Wright said, “It’s like the perfect storm,” we’ve had cuts from various agencies and now they are short in funding about $20,000. She said the Federal Transportation Bill known as “Safety Lou” was extended for three years and goes into effect in 2014. Wright also noted that Older Adult Service has taken action to help make ends meet buy trying to cut extras. They are also implementing a rate increase July 1st. The current fee is $2.00 per trip and that will increase to $2.50.
President of the County Commissioners, Kevin Overmyer spoke to the request. He said, “We had hoped to find the needed funds in our budget but an unexpected expense in Superior Court I for a sound system cost us $20,000.” He continued, “We support her asking for an additional. It’s no fault of theirs; they just got caught in a situation through INDOT.”
The County Council will consider an additional appropriation at their July meeting after the additional has been advertised.