VTA Advisory Board
August 2, 2013
The Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority Advisory Board met Thursday, August 2, 2013 at 10:00 AM in the offices of the Transit Authority, 11 A Street, Edgartown. Present were Alice Butler (Oak Bluffs), Lenny Jason (Chilmark), John Alley (West Tisbury), Connie Teixeira (Tisbury), Lou Paciello (Edgartown), Angela Grant (VTA) and Lois Craine (VTA). Absent were June Manning (Aquinnah) and Mary Beth Grady (Disabled Commuters’ Representative).
The meeting was called to order at 10:01AM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Ms. Teixeira moved to accept the Minutes of April 11, 2012 with the date corrected on the distributed copies. Mr. Alley seconded. M/s/c.
Ridership update
Ridership reports were distributed and discussed. Ms. Grant pointed out that ridership for FY13 was down 1.9% over all. Starting FY14 the July 4th three day holiday saw a 15% increase with many routes beyond capacity.
Financial report through May 2013
Ms. Grant reported revenue slightly down and expenses up. The FY13 audit is in progress and the year expected to end on budget. Contract revenue decreased with the end of the M.V.Hospital temporary park and ride. With a new vehicle on the Vineyard Haven park and ride the Steamship Authority will be approached for an increase to reflect higher wages and fuel costs. The Town of Tisbury will also be asked to help provide priority to buses in Water Street traffic. The VTA will be installing a camera at the Park and ride lot for added security.
State Budget Update
Ms. Grant reported that the Governor’s veto of all RTA money was overridden and the State budget was finally approved. The VTA awaits late Capital money to replace HVAC units, install cameras and other needed infrastructure repairs.
Board voting change
RTA Board voting changes in the Transportation Finance Bill amending Chapter 161B were distributed and discussed. Ms. Grant explained that the Disabled Commuters’ representative on the Board will now be a voting member but not part of a weighted vote as the position does not represent an assessment. That position is appointed by the towns on a rotating basis and each year one of the remaining member towns will appoint a resident to represent the riding community nominated by the AFL-CIO.
Finance & Audit Subcommittee
Ms. Grant asked for two Board Members to volunteer to meet as the Finance and Audit Committee not less than four times a year. Responsibilities will include accepting and reporting to the Board on the Audit and Management Letter, reviewing each year’s final budget and making recommendations in the best interest of the fiscal affairs of the Authority. Ms. Teixeira and Mr. Paciello agreed to serve as Committee members.
Mr. Jason made a motion to ask the Martha’s Vineyard Airport Commission to extend to the VTA a discounted rental rate as it is allowed. Mr. Paciello seconded and added a request for the discount to be retroactive. M/s/c.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:49 AM.
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