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).Also present was Richard Townes (Drivers’ Council). Absent was Mary Beth Grady (Disabled Commuters’ Representative).
The meeting was called to order at 9:07AM.
June Manning (Aquinnah) arrived at 9:09AM.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mr. Alley moved to accept the Minutes of August 2, 2013 with the date corrected on the distributed copies. Mr. Alley seconded. M/s/c.
Ridership FY14
Ridership reports (attachment A) 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.
Capital Plan update
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 next year to reflect higher wages and 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.
Fare increase
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 contracts to replace HVAC units, install cameras and other needed infrastructure replacements.
Board Voting changes update
RTA Board voting changes in the Transportation Finance Bill amending Chapter 161B were distributed and discussed. Ms. Grant explained that the 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.
FY13 Audit
Ms. Grant introduced Bruce Norling calling by telephone to present the FY13 Audit to the Board without management present. Ms. Grant and Ms. Craine left the room at 9:38Am. Mr. Paciello agreed to take notes presented here as Exhibit B.
Ms. Grant and Ms. Craine returned at 9:52AM.
C.O.L.A.
Ms. Grant informed the Board that a C.O.L.A. for VTA employees will be considered at the next meeting.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:10 AM.
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