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INTRODUCTION OF AUDIENCE MEMBERS

Received introductions from the audience including: Susan Stark, Controller; Roger Contreras, Chief Financial Officer; Jim McCutchen, Budget Administration Manager; Troy Hernandez, Area of Development Disability Board; David Ledwitz, VTA Accessible Services; Art Hulscher, Orthopaedic Hospital Disability Services (DS); Jim Unites, VTA Operations Program Manager; Matthew O. Tucker, Chief Operating Officer; Beverly Cauchi, VTA Construction Division; Sheri Fisher, VTA Accessible Services; Nancy Coss-Fitzwater, VTA Operations; Rael Manlapas, VTA Human Service; Edna Pampy, VTA Accessible Services; and Michelle M. Garza, VTA Board Office.

PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS

Thomas Slack, Interested Citizen, requested staff provide to Committee Members feedback regarding the type of information applicants are receiving when a request is made for their personal interview data entered into the database system.   Mr. Slack queried if all personal interview data is provided to the applicant when requested and if not, why is the data different, and what is the difference in the data entered into the database system versus the data provided to the applicant.    

Barbara Rhodes, Interested Citizen, requested staff respond to the request to change the Committee for Transit Accessibility (CTA) Meeting Conference Room from the Auditorium to B-104.   Ms. Rhodes noted that Conference Room B-104 is more accessible and easier to locate.  Edna Pampy, Paratransit Senior Management Analyst, responded yes to forward request to change the Committee Meeting Conference Room from the Auditorium to B-104.  

The Agenda was taken out of order.

BUSINESS REFERRED TO COMMITTEE BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS/GENERAL MANAGER

Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007

Ms. Stark introduced Mr. McCutchen, Budget Administration Manager, to Committee Members then Ms. Stark provided a brief overview on the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007.  Ms. Stark commented on the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007.  Ms. Stark commented that during FY 2001 and continuing to FY 2004, VTA was immersed in a financial crisis; therefore, service reductions of nine percent, four percent, and three percent were implemented.  Ms. Stark noted that sales tax plummeted from a peak of $180 million per year to approximately $139 million per year; therefore, this brought about a rapid decrease in Operating Reserves.  Ms. Stark continued that VTA had a structure deficit; therefore, by FY 2004 VTA was faced with implementing an additional 21 percent service reduction on top of the previously 16 percent service reduction already experienced.  At that time the Board of Directors authorized borrowing $80 million from future 2000 Measure A Sales Tax Revenues to fund operations and to prevent a service reduction.  Ms. Stark noted that fortunately, neither of those drastic measures took place due to the leadership displayed by VTA Board of Directors, Ad-Hoc Financial Stability Committee, and the diligent efforts from VTA employees in the organization. 

Ms. Stark commented on the challenges addressed to assist VTA on the way to financial stability.  Ms. Stark noted that labor contract revisited, which was a very controversial move that could only be accomplished with the combined efforts of both management and staff; however, this allowed previously agreed upon items to be deferred over a period of time there by relieving VTA’s cash flow.

Ms. Stark commented on the steps to assist with the financial stability: staff reductions, reorganizations of units within the organization, and improved productivity and efficiencies to reach an all time high performance level.

Ms. Stark commented on the Fare Policy developed to establish a process for fare review and cost recovery target.  Ms. Stark noted VTA chose to postpone, reduce, and eliminate capital projects when recognizing that VTA could not fund capital projects at the same level.

Ms. Stark commented how VTA reorganized major programs and functions and implemented a Transitional Work Program for Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) employees, which assists employees who are temporarily unable to perform their regular assignments. 

Member Marcillet took his seat at 1:10 p.m.

Ms. Stark commented on VTA’s challenges for tomorrow are to continue striving for efficiencies and identifying more effective and cost efficient ways of conducting business.   Ms. Stark noted VTA’s goal to achieve efficiencies while maintaining a primary goal of ensuring our efforts have minimal impact on customers. 

Ms. Stark noted that the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 is actually reduced or nearly at the level of the approved FY 2005 Operating Budget in order to make things more effective.  Ms. Stark continued that service has risen slightly primarily due to the opening of Vasona Light Rail Corridor Extension this summer as well as the Community Bus scheduled to be implemented during this budget cycle.

Ms. Stark commented on the sources and uses of funds for the fiscal year and noted that the focus is on the Operating Reserves.   Ms. Stark noted VTA Board adopted policy of reaching a goal of 15 percent for Operating Reserves meaning that the funds remaining at the end of any fiscal year should equal 15 percent of that year’s Operating Expense Budget.   Ms. Stark added that currently, VTA’s Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 is estimated to achieve 14.9 percent at June 30, 2007. Ms. Stark noted some changes to the Recommended Biennial Budget, which will have to be implement before final budget adoption, the addition of approximately $750,000 to the ATU Retirement Fund for each two fiscal years and an additional $250,000 to each of the fiscal years to the diesel fuel budget.   Therefore, the updated estimate for Operating Reserves at June 30, 2007, will be 14.1 percent, which is a significant improvement for VTA.  

Ms. Stark continued that staff prepared and presented Key Budget Assumptions to the Administration and Finance Committee in October 2004 and VTA Board of Directors in November 2004, which included the following: Wage & Benefits, Interest Rates, Sales Tax, Traction Power, Fares, Fuel FY 2006, Fuel FY 2007, Bus Service Miles, Bus Service Hours, Light Rail Service Miles, and Light Rail Service Hours.

Member Rhodes thanked and expressed appreciation to Ms. Stark regarding the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 presentation. 
Member Rhodes requested copies of the presentation notes on the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 be provided to Committee Members.  Ms. Stark responded yes to provide the Committee Members with copies of the presentation notes on the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007.

Chairperson Julian noted CTA’s Committee Meeting time constraints and commented on the other items of interest on the Committee Agenda.

Ms. Stark commented on revenues and expenses, which are Major Budget Components.  Ms. Stark continued that Wages & Benefits are typically the largest part of the budget and represent 71 percent for FY 2006 and 68 percent for FY 2007.   Ms. Stark noted VTA’s Debt Service to pay for bonds issued represents 7 percent for FY 2006 and 7 percent for FY 2007.  Ms. Stark noted that Contracted Services represents 14 percent for FY 2006 and 14 percent for FY 2007.  Ms. Stark commented on Miscellaneous Expenses, which include the following: Materials & Supplies, Fuel & Traction Power, Security, Professional, Special & Other Services, Insurance, and Reimbursements and represents
8 percent for FY 2006 and 11 percent for FY 2007.

Ms. Stark noted that the Summary of Divisions’ Accomplishments and Goals are included and outlined in the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007.

Member Rhodes queried about the Accessible Services Summary of Accomplishments and Goals.  Ms. Stark noted that Mr. Tucker would respond to Accessible Services as it relates in the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007.

Member Rhodes stressed the importance of the Committee to provide input on the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007.

Mr. Tucker noted CTA’s Committee Meeting time constraints and number of items of concern and interest on the Committee Meeting Agenda requiring time for Committee discussion.

Member Rhodes suggested extending the June 9, 2005 CTA Meeting by one hour and providing lunch to Committee Members to provide adequate time to conduct Committee business.

Ms. Stark commented on revenue budget increase from the 1976 ½ Cent Sales Tax,
2000 Measure A Sales Tax, and first year of January 1, 2005 Fare Increases.  Ms. Stark commented on expense budget decreases in Staffing Reductions and Professional Services due to capital projects closing and professional services staff no longer being required for the projects.  Ms. Stark commented on expense budget increases in Diesel Fuel Cost, Ridership Marketing Campaigns, and Reimbursements Decline.

Ms. Stark noted that when Reimbursement Decline, VTA costs go up since grant funds or other sources of revenue reimbursed VTA for VTA staff time spent on those
Capital Projects or grant funded projects. 

Ms. Stark commented on the next steps related to the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 and noted that the budget presentation will be presented to all VTA Advisory Committees and Standing Committees in May 2005.   The budget presentation will then be presented to the Board of Directors on June 2, 2005 for consideration for adoption.  Ms. Stark noted four Community Meetings presenting the budget presentation held in Milpitas, Palo Alto, Gilroy, and San Jose.  Ms. Stark noted the following e-mail address site to submit questions and comments:  budgetcomments@vta.org.  

Chairperson Julian thanked and expressed appreciation to staff regarding the diligent work on the budget presentation provided to the Committee. 

Member Slack thanked staff on the budget presentation and queried about the 15 percent Operating Reserves.   Ms. Stark responded that the goal is to have 15 percent in funds available for the Operating Reserves at the end of any given fiscal year, which should be equal to 15 percent of that years Operating Expense Budget.

Member Rhodes thanked staff for the budget presentation; however, expressed concern that the Recommended Biennial Budget was not presented to CTA before conducting the Community Meetings. 

Member Michels queried about limitations on employee raises, salaries, personal spending, and benefits.  Ms. Stark responded that staff is in the process of labor negotiations and added that limits have been implemented for employee wages and benefits.  Ms. Stark noted the labor contract reopened due to the combined efforts of both management and staff.

Member Jensen queried about limitations on Executive Management Wages. 
Mr. Contreras responded that all Non-Represented Employees (not represented by a union) has not received a salary increase in three years.

Member Grant queried if Paratransit is allowed to purchase fuel at the same price that VTA pays.   Mr. Tucker responded that the fuel prices in the budget are relative to clean low-sulfur diesel and noted that VTA does receive the benefit of a non-profit agency or public sector agency; however, at this time OUTREACH Paratransit does not purchase fuel at the same price. 

Member Grant queried about VTA surplus land and if the excess land could be used to store vehicles.   Mr. Tucker responded that discussions related to the value and use of the land for the ultimate benefit of the land are constantly being discussed; however, many different factors come into play in determining how to implement and if it would be feasible.  Mr. Tucker noted that staff is in discussions with OUTREACH regarding ways to contain costs and streamline costs related to Paratransit Services.

Member Grant queried about the message in the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 from Peter M. Cipolla, General Manager, stating free fares for all seniors age 67 and older who are disabled currently not qualified for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Paratransit Services during off-peak hours, Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays and if this is moving forward.  Mr. Tucker responded yes and noted that VTA Marketing Department is taking the lead on the program.  Mr. Tucker added that more information will be provided as it occurs and becomes available and will be forwarded to CTA. 

Member Grant requested that information be distributed to Committee Members in a timely manner in order to have adequate time to review.   Ms. Stark responded that the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 was distributed to all VTA Advisory Committees, Standing Committees, and Board Members on
April 6-7, 2005 and is also available on VTA website.

Mr. Tucker commented that the Service Management Plan dealt with the items that drive the budget related to the Paratransit Program.   Mr. Tucker noted the deferral of the South County Surcharge for two additional years as well as other changes and deferrals associated with the Paratransit Program.  Mr. Tucker noted increased productivity, improvement, and efficiency in the Paratransit Program; therefore, over time staff is projecting significant improvements that will address a lot of the issues with Paratransit.  Mr. Tucker added that CTA will be included in the process to address issues related to Paratransit Services and many of the things will happen over the future.

Member Stahl queried about the deferred items.   Mr. Tucker responded that the deferred items are the following: South County Surcharge, Trip-by-Trip Eligibility - pending additional analysis and determination of feasibility, and Driver Escort.  Mr. Tucker noted that all of these items are part of the Service Management Plan, which drives the budget for Operations Division as well as the entire organization.

Member Rhodes queried about the deferral of the South County Surcharge.   Mr. Tucker responded that the deferral of the South County Surcharge was Board of Director direction and action.  Member Rhodes stressed the importance to treat all individuals equally.

The Committee received and filed the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007.

Proposed Changes to Bylaws

Mr. Tucker provided a brief overview on the Proposed Changes to CTA Bylaws. 
Mr. Tucker noted staff’s starting point recommendation regarding the proposed changes to the CTA Bylaws.   Mr. Tucker commented on Committee Members expressing an interest in amending the CTA Bylaws to allow for the following: option of a Vice Chairperson and Second Vice Chairperson, the Committee would have to define the responsibilities and duties of the Vice Chairperson and Second Vice Chairperson; reduction in the size of the Committee from 21 Committee Members to 18 Committee Members, the structure of the Committee reflects 7 Committee Members representing Human Services Agencies and 11 Committee Members representing Individuals with Disabilities Categories; and proposing to appoint an additional Ex-Officio Member from the VTA Board of Directors.   Mr. Tucker noted VTA Board direction regarding the importance of having Committee consistency with the Board of Directors; therefore, the Committee voting requirement be the majority of the total membership.

Member Rhodes stressed the importance to make it clear to the Board of Directors that CTA is a special Committee with special challenges; therefore, CTA should have a quorum of the attending Committee Members and not a quorum of a majority of the total membership.  Member Rhodes stressed the importance and benefit to retain the
21 Committee Members.

Member Grant stressed the importance of having the option of a Second Vice Chairperson included in the Committee Bylaws.

Member Stahl noted an option of a Second Vice Chairperson would be beneficial.

M/S/C (Julian/Rhodes)on a vote of 12 Ayes, to 0 Noes, to 1 Abstention to recommend the CTA Bylaws allow election of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and a Second Vice Chairperson to conduct Committee business.   Member Eljas abstained.

Member Grant queried about Committee Member nominations.   Mr. Tucker responded that nominees are appointed to the Committee by the VTA Board of Directors. Ms. Pampy added that CTA is comprised of 12 Members representing Individuals with Disabilities and 9 Members representing Human Service Organizations.

Member Rhodes requested that the Committee Membership maintain 21 Members and the quorum requirement due to the special needs of the Members be taken into account; therefore, the quorum be the number of Members in attendance at the Committee Meeting.

Member Slack expressed concern regarding the recommendation to change the Committee quorum to the number of Members in attendance at the Committee Meeting.

Member Stahl requested that the quorum be reduced to 9 Members instead of
11 Members. 

Member Gouveia agreed with the quorum number being reduced to 9 Members in order to gain the full opinion of the Committee group.

Member Slack queried if the Committee recommendation needs to be approved by the Board of Directors.  Ms. Pampy responded yes.

M/S/C (Stahl/Eljas) on a vote of 13 Ayes, to 0 Noes, to 0 Abstentions to recommend the CTA quorum be reduced to 9 Committee Members.

Member Rhodes requested that when the recommendation is forwarded to the Board of Directors for consideration that Chairperson Julian or a CTA Member attend to explain the reasoning for the CTA quorum recommendation.   Chairperson Julian concurred.  

Mr. Tucker noted staff’s recommendation to appoint a VTA Board of Director to serve as an Ex-Officio Member on CTA. 

Member Bruntz queried about the appointed Ex-Officio Board Member.  Mr. Tucker responded that the recommendation is for a VTA Board of Director to serve on the Committee as an Ex-Officio Member (non-voting Member).

M/S/C (Rhodes/Gouveia) on a vote of 13 Ayes, to 0 Noes, to 0 Abstentions to recommend appointing a VTA Board of Director to serve on CTA as an Ex-Officio Member. 

Member Rhodes noted the importance of Committee Members making the effort to attend and participate in as many Committee Meetings and requested that Committee Member attendance be stated in the membership application.  Mr. Tucker responded that Committee Member attendance is reflected in the CTA membership application.

The Committee reviewed and provided comment on the Proposed Changes to CTA Bylaws.

Mr. Tucker expressed his appreciation to the Committee regarding their input on the Proposed Changes to CTA Bylaws.  Mr. Tucker noted the improvement to proceed and conduct Committee business.

NOTE:    M/S/C MEANS MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED AND, UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED, THE MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

FY 2005 Second Quarter Transit Operations Performance Report

Mr. Tucker provided a brief overview on the FY 2005 Second Quarter Transit Operations Performance Report.   Mr. Tucker commented that the report reflects the general performance trend for the first six months of FY 2005, which shows operating cost per hour increasing and operating expenses decreasing as a result of reduction in service hours.  Mr. Tucker continued that service quality continues to be strong and noted significant improvements in productivity in terms of unscheduled time-off for Bus and Light Rail Operators as well as maintenance staff.  Mr. Tucker noted decline in System and Bus ridership, while Light Rail ridership continues to show improvement month after month.  Mr. Tucker commented on the organization’s overall ability to control costs and continue to provide safe and reliable transportation service to customers.

Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 (continued)

Member Jensen queried about a previous motion by CTA to remove Paratransit Services from the VTA Farebox Recovery Ratio.   Mr. Tucker responded that staff is willing to forward the item on a future CTA Meeting Agenda.  Mr. Tucker added that Committee Members may request the Committee Chairperson to place an item of business for discussion and or action on a subsequent Committee Agenda.

Member Gouveia noted that the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007 is being forwarded for consideration at the June 2, 2005 VTA Board of Directors Regular Meeting.

The Committee received and filed the Recommended Biennial Budget for Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007.

FY 2005 Second Quarter Transit Operations Performance Report (continued)

Member Michels queried if future Transit Operations Performance Reports include an attachment to compare the current Fiscal Year information with the previous Fiscal Year information.   Member Michels noted the importance and requested information on the number of accidents and complaints.  Mr. Tucker responded that staff will provide the information. 

FY 2005 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report

Member Grant commented that a lot of information is provided in the Paratransit Services Performance Report regarding OUTREACH; however, not much information is provided regarding Orthopaedic Hospital.   Member Grant noted the importance of providing more information on Orthopaedic Hospital and requested the information be included in future Paratransit Services Performance Reports.  Mr. Tucker responded that Mr. Ledwitz will provide an overview regarding the Paratransit Services Performance Report.

FY 2005 Second Quarter Transit Operations Performance Report (continued)

Member Rhodes queried if future performance reports include information regarding both Accessible Services and Fixed Route Services in the one document and noted that customers utilize both services; therefore, Accessible Services and Fixed Route Services information should be applied and reflected in one document.

Member Grant noted that Mr. Tucker is responsible for Accessible Services Department; therefore, able to respond to questions regarding the Paratransit Services Performance Report.   Mr. Tucker responded that, as the Chief Operating Officer, Accessible Services Department is one of his responsibilities; however, the Committee is currently on discussion of Agenda Item # 8., FY 2005 Second Quarter Transit Operations Performance Report and that the questions are appropriate for Agenda Item # 9., FY 2005 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report.  Mr. Tucker continued that staff is willing to provide and include the requested information in the report; however, the questions and requests regarding Paratransit Services Performance Report are appropriate for discussion on Agenda Item # 9., FY 2005 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report.  Mr. Tucker added that moving back and forth between several Agenda Items is confusing for attendees, public, and Committee Members who are currently on discussion of Agenda Item # 8., FY 2005 Second Quarter Transit Operations Performance Report. 

Member Rhodes left her seat at 2:20 p.m.

Member Bruntz noted appreciation for Mr. Tucker’s comments, but added that it is appropriate for the Committee Chairperson to direct the Committee Members on issues related to the Brown Act.

The Committee received and filed the FY 2005 Second Quarter Transit Operations Performance Report.

Member Rhodes took her seat at 2:22 p.m.

FY 2005 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report (continued)

Mr. Ledwitz provided a brief overview on FY 2005 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report.  Mr. Ledwitz commented that on a quarterly basis, staff summarizes certain Paratransit Service data in order to effectively monitor key performance indicators.  Mr. Ledwitz noted that this report presents and compares summary information for the Third Quarter FY 2005 to FY 2004 and noted that the Third Quarter is January, February, and March.  Mr. Ledwitz stated that customer utilization of VTA’s Paratransit Service continues to be strong with nearly 227,480 passenger trips provided.  The cost per trip continues to decline as productivity improves and the late rate remains low and holding steady at approximately one percent of all trips.  Average call waiting time is up; however, the number of incoming scheduling calls per day decreased slightly.  The number of calls for dispatch assistance per day has increased and the average wait time to be answered increased from 1 minute, 5 seconds to 1 minute, 9 seconds.  Mr. Ledwitz continued that Subscription Services remains high as more customers are taking advantage of this convenient way to schedule recurring trips.  An average of 1,540 subscription trips were provided per weekday, which represents 48.7 percent of total average weekday ridership.  As per the current Subscription Trip Policy, there is no limit to the number of subscription trips provided.

Mr. Ledwitz noted that FY 2005 Third Quarter Paratransit ridership increased by
0.1 percent with a total of 227,480 passenger trips provided.   The number of same day trips provided increased by 0.2 percent during the same period.  The number of no shows increased by 3.1 percent during the Third Quarter of FY 2005 when compared with the Third Quarter last year. 

Mr. Ledwitz commented the total paratransit expenses for the Third Quarter of
FY 2005 decreased by 5 percent when compared to the Third Quarter last year.  The average net cost per trip decreased to $25.13 the same period last year.  Mr. Ledwitz noted that some of the per trip cost savings is due to an increased utilization of lower cost taxi services and the fare increase.

Mr. Ledwitz commented on the ADA Paratransit Eligibility and noted that during the Third Quarter of FY 2005, Orthopaedic Hospital conducted 1,323 eligibility evaluations.   Mr. Ledwitz continued of the 1,323 applicants interviewed, 623 new applicants and 661 recertifying applicants were granted eligibility to use paratransit services, with an overall approval rate of 97.1 percent. 

Member Stahl queried on the number of physical, cognitive, and visual applicants interviewed.  Mr. Ledwitz responded that staff will provide the requested information to the Committee.  Ms. Pampy noted that staff is in the process to provide the Committee with consistent information on the physical, cognitive, and visual applicant number breakdown.

Member Rhodes requested the Committee receive standardized reports on accessible services regarding Outreach, NovaCare, and Orthopaedic Hospital.  Member Rhodes stressed the importance of the Committee to receive consistent information from Outreach, NovaCare, and Orthopaedic Hospital.

Member Gallo queried on the overall costs associated with the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Process since 97 percent of the applicants are approved and deemed eligible for Paratransit Services.  Member Gallo queried about the overall costs to determine that 3 percent of the applicants are ineligible for Paratransit Services and if the ineligibility savings justify the eligibility costs.  Ms. Pampy responded that an analysis breakdown memorandum regarding costs versus costs deferred was conducted. Ms. Pampy noted that the CTA Subcommittee is currently in the process of fine tuning the process and working to address the issue.

Member Eljas asked about costs associated with determining 97 percent of applicants are deemed eligible for Paratransit Services and costs associated to conduct the process.  Member Eljas noted if the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Process excluded clients deemed permanently disabled from the Certification Program Process it would save funding.

Member Slack noted that he had stated and queried about cost analysis regarding if there was a cost savings on the recertification process several months ago; however, noted no response from staff.

Member Bruntz left the meeting at 2:30 p.m.

Member Marcillet expressed his concern regarding spending large amounts of funding to recertify disabled clients that we know are eligible for Paratransit Services.

Member Rhodes requested that the Committee recommend to the Board of Directors to reexamine the contract with Orthopaedic Hospital and NovaCare.  Member Rhodes noted the funding could be better utilized to provide more service to customers.

M/S/C (Grant/Stahl) on a vote of 11 Ayes, to 0 Noes, to 1 Abstention to recommend to terminate the contract with Orthopaedic Hospital and NovaCare and allow OUTREACH to conduct the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Process.  Member Michels abstained.

Member Rhodes thanked Mr. Ledwitz for the report and requested the information be provided in an excel spreadsheet format.  Mr. Ledwitz responded that staff will forward the information request.

Member Stahl queried on the reason applicants were classified in category one and three related to the ADA Categories.   Mr. Ledwitz responded that the three ADA categories are defined by the ADA and are the following: category one - an individual cannot get to the transportation system, category two – the transportation system is inaccessible due to lifts and ramps being operational, or category three – functional limitations for an individual to board and ride the transportation system. 

Member Stahl noted her belief that the ADA Categories are being mixed up regarding the determination of how an individual is classified.   Member Stahl added that permanently disabled individuals should be classified in ADA Category one versus ADA Category three. 

Member Rhodes noted her belief that the ADA Categories are being interpreted incorrectly regarding how an individual is classified with regard to the ADA Categories.

Member Grant requested information on NovaCare and Orthopaedic Hospital regarding total cost, cost per interview, cost per application, and average wait time on calls, such as, the information provided on OUTREACH.   Member Grant requested information on how individuals are classified in ADA Categories one, two, and three as well as the percentages of the individuals deemed in each category classification.  Member Grant requested that staff provide the Committee with the requested information in future Paratransit Services Performance Reports.  Mr. Ledwitz responded that staff will forward the request for consideration. 

Member Slack queried on the contract expiration date for Orthopaedic Hospital and NovaCare.  Ms. Pampy responded that the contract expiration date is July 2006 with two one-year extensions for a total of five years.

Member Slack queried if the Orthopaedic Hospital and NovaCare contract extensions need to be approved by the Board of Directors.  Ms. Pampy responded no.

Member Slack expressed his concern and stressed the importance of recommending the Board of Directors not permit the contract extension with Orthopaedic Hospital and NovaCare.

Member Rhodes requested copies of the Orthopaedic Hospital and NovaCare contracts be provided to the Committee for review.

Member Grant suggested additional Committee input regarding the type of information on NovaCare and Orthopaedic Hospital be provided in future Paratransit Services Performance Reports. 

Chairperson Julian requested the information related to the Paratransit Services Performance Reports be agendized to a future CTA Meeting Agenda for further Committee discussion and consideration. 

Member Jensen queried about a list outlining the motions and recommendations from the Committee as well as the comments from the Board of Directors be provided to the CTA Committee.   Member Eljas stressed the importance of keeping track of the Committee recommendations and outcome. 

Member Slack stressed the importance to keep track of the Committee recommendations and noted that the list will serve as a check-off table for the Committee to reference which items have been addressed and completed. 

Member Rhodes requested a list outlining the recommendations from the Committee and comments from the Board of Directors be provided to the Committee regarding the last two years.  Mr. Unites responded that tracking the recommendations for the last two years would be difficult; however, staff is willing to forward the request and work to develop an information table and include in the Committee Agenda Packet on a monthly basis.

The Committee received and filed the FY 2005 Third Quarter Paratransit Services Performance Report.

Minutes of February 9, 2005

Member Stahl noted a correction to the February 9, 2005 CTA Meeting Minutes and referenced Page 9 of 17, Paragraph 3, noting Member Slack stressed the importance and requirement regarding photo identification to conduct business. 

Member Rhodes expressed her concern regarding CTA Minutes being forwarded to the Board of Directors before CTA approves the CTA Committee Meeting Minutes. 
Ms. Garza responded that Advisory Committee Minutes are forwarded to the
VTA Board of Directors as an information item and noted that the Board of Directors are aware that the Advisory Committees will consider action on their Committee Minutes at their following Committee Meeting.

M/S/F (Gouveia/Marcillet) on a vote of 10 Ayes, to 0 Noes, to 1 Abstention to approve the Minutes of February 9, 2005.  Member Slack abstained.

NOTE:  M/S/F MEANS MOTION SECONDED AND FAILED.

Minutes of March 9, 2005

M/S/F (Gouveia/Marcillet) on a vote of 10 Ayes, to 0 Noes, to 1 Abstention to approve the Minutes of February 9, 2005.  Member Slack abstained.

Summary Minutes of April 13, 2005

The Committee received and filed the Summary Minutes of April 13, 2005. 

OTHER

CTA Transit System Ridership Report

The CTA Transit System Ridership Report was deferred.

Legislative Updates

The Legislative Updates was deferred.

Committee Workplan

The Committee Workplan was deferred.

Chairperson’s Report

There was no Chairperson’s Report.

Announcements

Member Rhodes noted her attendance at the Taxi Symposium sponsored by Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC).

Chairperson Julian requested that Member Rhodes provide the information packet to staff to copy and distribute to Committee Members.   Member Rhodes responded that the information packet may be obtained from MTC.   Mr. Ledwitz responded that the request for the Taxi Symposium information packet will be provided.

Committee Staff Report

Ms. Pampy noted the new Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Process Brochures and information packets were available for distribution to Committee Members.