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CALL TO ORDER

The Regular Meeting of the Committee for Transit Accessibility (CTA) was called to order at 1:06 p.m. by Chairperson Julian in Building A, Auditorium, Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), 3331 North First Street, San Jose, California.

ROLL CALL

Members Present
Adam Byrnes, staff aide representing Cindy Chavez (Ex-Officio Board Liaison)
Emma Eljas
Linda Gallo
Sandra Gouveia
David Grant, Second Vice Chairperson
Katie Heatley (Ex-Officio)
Troy Hernandez
Marjorie Jensen
David Julian, Chairperson
Martin Lasich
Laura Michels
Aaron Morrow, First Vice Chairperson
Barbara Rhodes
Thomas Slack
Barbara Stahl

Members Absent
Jeanette Bruntz
Allen F. Marcillet

A quorum was present.

PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS

Barbara Rhodes, Interested Citizen, expressed concern regarding Committee Members not receiving information in accessible format or large print.   Ms. Rhodes stressed the importance of providing all Committee Members with the same opportunity to review information.  Ms. Rhodes requested that staff address the accessibility and large print issues.  Sam Lau, VTA Operations Planning and Support Services Deputy Director and CTA Staff Liaison, responded that staff will forward the information to the Office of the Board Secretary for response.

Aaron Morrow, Interested Citizen, expressed concern and noted that CTA does not receive Congestion Management Program and Planning (CMPP) document information as the other VTA Advisory Committees.  Mr. Morrow stressed the importance for uniformity with all VTA Advisory Committees and added that CMPP document information should be distributed to all VTA Advisory Committees.  Mr. Morrow expressed support for Caltrain in the VTA Scenario and added that Caltrain is an important part of Regional Transportation in the Valley.  Mr. Morrow urged VTA Board of Directors not to cut Caltrain project funding in the VTA Scenario.  

Committee Staff Report

Samuel Lau, VTA Operations Planning and Support Services Deputy Director and CTA Staff Liaison, commented that VTA staff attended and participated in the Abilities Expo for Northern California Conference, held November 18 – 20, 2005 at Santa Clara Convention Center.  Mr. Lau continued that 18 new VTA Bus Operators,
VTA Operations Training Department staff, and VTA Marketing and Public Affairs staff attended one day of the Abilities Expo Event.  Mr. Lau commented that CTA will receive the RIDE Task Force Minutes as information.  Mr. Lau noted that a memorandum from Chairperson Julian submitted to VTA Board of Directors regarding CTA’s request for staff to develop a training program to assess bus operators regarding Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance was sent on November 9, 2005. Mr. Lau noted that the VTA Scenario will be presented at the January 11, 2006 CTA Meeting as well as an Emergency Preparedness presentation.   Mr. Lau stated that members from Santa Clara County Office of Emergency Services have been invited to provide a presentation regarding Emergency Preparedness Planning.  Mr. Lau commented that Certificates of Appreciation from VTA will be sent to the following vacated CTA Members: Maryjane Naughten, Jeanette Bruntz, and Diana Nguyen.  Mr. Lau noted that an attendance sheet will be distributed bi-annually to CTA as update information for Committee Members. 

Mr. Tucker commented on the request for staff to develop a training program to assess bus operators regarding ADA compliance and made a commitment to work collaboratively with CTA to develop the training program framework.  Mr. Tucker requested a group of Committee Members work with staff to develop the perimeters, outline, and measures that staff will utilize to manage the issue and move forward towards a goal for improvement.

Member Slack expressed concern and disappointment regarding the absence of displays for individuals with low vision at the Abilities Expo Conference Event.   Member Slack expressed concern that individuals were not aware that the Abilities Expo Conference Event was geared towards individuals with mobility impairments.  

First Vice Chairperson Morrow referenced an electronic mail (e-mail) sent by Accessible Services staff regarding a response related to field supervisors and queried about the appropriate time for Committee discussion related to the issue.   Mr. Lau responded that staff will forward the request as a future agenda item on CTA.

Minutes of November 9, 2005

M/S/C (Gouveia/Morrow) to approve the Minutes of November 9, 2005.

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

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

Chairperson for the Committee for Transit Accessibility for the Year 2006               

Member Gouveia suggested that Committee Members vote by secret ballot.   Mr. Tucker responded that voting by secret ballot would be a violation of the California Government Code - Sections 54950 - 54962 - The Ralph M. Brown Act and added that Committee voting is part of the public record.             

Member Slack noted the following candidate slate for CTA Chairperson 2006 was presented at the November 9, 2005 CTA Meeting in the Nominating Committee Report. 

The Committee opened nominations from the floor for CTA Chairperson 2006. 

Member Slack added that since the November 9, 2005 CTA Meeting the Nominating Committee has received interest from Member Rhodes in the position of CTA Chairperson 2006. 

Second Vice Chairperson Grant nominated Aaron Morrow for CTA Chairperson 2006. 

Member Stahl requested clarification regarding how nominating and voting for positions on the Committee is in conflict with the Ralph M. Brown Act.  Mr. Lawson responded that the Ralph M. Brown Act governs meetings for local government bodies.  Mr. Lawson commented that the Ralph M. Brown Act specifically requires that all actions taken by a public board must follow and adhere to the Ralph M. Brown Act and added that the intention is that public business be conducted in open and public. 

Member Rhodes accepted the nomination for CTA Chairperson 2006. 

First Vice Chairperson Morrow accepted the nomination for CTA Chairperson 2006. 

Mr. Lau stated the following candidates for CTA Chairperson 2006: David Julian,
Aaron Morrow, and Barbara Rhodes.             

The Committee closed nominations from the floor for CTA Chairperson 2006. 

M/S/F (Eljas/Slack)on a Roll Call Vote of 4 Ayes, to 9 Noes, to 0 Abstentions to elect
David Julian for CTA Chairperson for 2006.   Members Gallo, Gouveia, Grant, Hernandez, Jensen, Lasich, Morrow, Rhodes, and Stahl opposed.

M/S/F (Gouveia/Eljas) on a Roll Call Vote of 5 Ayes, to 8 Noes, to 0 Abstentions to elect Barbara Rhodes for CTA Chairperson for 2006.  Members Gallo, Grant, Hernandez, Jensen, Lasich, Morrow, Slack, and Julian opposed.

Mr. Lawson recommended that Committee Members vote for their candidate then proceed with a run-off vote with the two top candidates for the position of
CTA Chairperson 2006.

M/S/F (Gouveia/Eljas)on a Roll Call Vote to elect the candidate for CTA Chairperson for 2006.   Member Eljas: Julian, Member Gallo: Morrow, Member Gouveia: Rhodes, Member Grant: Morrow, Member Hernandez: Morrow, Member Jensen: Morrow, Member Lasich: Julian, Member Michels: Julian, Member Morrow: Morrow, Member Rhodes: Rhodes, Member Slack: Julian, Member Stahl: Morrow, and Member Julian: Julian.  Chairperson Julian received 5 Ayes, First Vice Chairperson Morrow received 6 Ayes, and Member Rhodes received 2 Ayes.

M/S/F (Gouveia/Eljas)on a Roll Call Vote to elect the candidate for CTA Chairperson for 2006.   Member Eljas: Julian, Member Gallo: Morrow, Member Gouveia: Morrow, Member Grant: Morrow, Member Hernandez: Morrow, Member Jensen: Morrow, Member Lasich: Julian, Member Michels: Julian, Member Morrow: Morrow, Member Rhodes: Morrow, Member Slack: Julian, Member Stahl: Morrow, and
Member Julian: Julian.  Chairperson Julian received 5 Ayes and First Vice Chairperson Morrow received 8 Ayes.

M/S/C (Gouveia/Eljas)on a Roll Call Vote to elect the candidate for CTA Chairperson for 2006.   Member Eljas: Julian, Member Gallo: Morrow, Member Gouveia: Morrow, Member Grant: Morrow, Member Hernandez: Morrow, Member Jensen: Morrow, Member Lasich: Julian, Member Michels: Julian, Member Morrow: Morrow, Member Rhodes: Morrow, Member Slack: Morrow, Member Stahl: Morrow, and Member Julian: Julian.  Chairperson Julian received 3 Ayes and First Vice Chairperson Morrow received 9 Ayes.

Chairperson Julian expressed interest in the position of CTA First Vice Chairperson 2006. 

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

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

First Vice Chairperson for the Committee for Transit Accessibility for the
Year 2006

Member Slack noted the following candidate for CTA First Vice Chairperson 2006: Aaron Morrow.

The Committee opened nominations from the floor for CTA First Vice Chairperson 2006. 

First Vice Chairperson Morrow removed his nomination for the position of
CTA First Vice Chairperson 2006 and nominated Barbara Rhodes for CTA First
Vice Chairperson 2006. 

Mr. Lau noted the following candidates for CTA First Vice Chairperson 2006:
David Julian and Barbara Rhodes.              

The Committee closed nominations from the floor for CTA First Vice Chairperson 2006. 

M/S/C (Morrow/Gouveia)on a Roll Call Vote to elect the candidate for CTA First Vice Chairperson for 2006.   Member Eljas: Rhodes, Member Gallo: Rhodes,
Member Gouveia: Rhodes, Member Grant: Rhodes, Member Hernandez: Rhodes, Member Jensen: Rhodes, Member Lasich: Julian, Member Michels: Julian,
Member Morrow: Rhodes, Member Rhodes: Rhodes, Member Slack: Abstained,
Member Stahl: Rhodes, and Member Julian: Abstained.  Member Rhodes received
9 Ayes and Chairperson Julian received 2 Ayes.  Chairperson Julian and Member Slack abstained.

Second Vice Chairperson for the Committee for Transit Accessibility for the
Year 2006

Member Slack noted the following candidate for CTA Second Vice Chairperson 2006: Barbara Stahl.

The Committee opened nominations from the floor for CTA Second Vice Chairperson 2006. 

The Committee closed nominations for the CTA Second Vice Chairperson 2006 position. 

M/S/C (Eljas/Gouveia) on a Roll Call Vote to elect the Barbara Stahl for CTA Second Vice Chairperson for 2006.   Member Eljas: Aye, Member Gallo: Aye, Member Gouveia: Aye, Member Grant: Aye, Member Hernandez:  Aye, Member Jensen: Aye, Member Lasich: Aye, Member Michels: Aye, Member Morrow: Aye, Member Rhodes: Aye, Member Slack: Aye, Member Stahl: Aye, and Member Julian: Aye.

Member Lasich queried about the affirmative vote of nine required for Committee action and how it relates to the quorum.   Mr. Tucker responded that CTA Bylaws were amended based on CTA recommendations and approved at the August 4, 2005 VTA Board of Directors Regular Meeting.  Mr. Tucker noted that an affirmative vote of nine is required for Committee action and quorum are addressed in the CTA Bylaws.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley noted that the Ex-Officio Member and Ex-Officio Board Liaison are non-voting members.

Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Modifications

First Vice Chairperson Morrow provided a brief overview on the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Modifications and expressed appreciation to the Committee Members involved with the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Subcommittee. 
First Vice Chairperson Morrow commented that the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Subcommittee presented an overview of the process at the November 9, 2005
CTA Meeting and as discussed, the proposed change to the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program is to transfer the Eligibility Process to Outreach effective
July 1, 2006.   The Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Modifications would create greater flexibility; discontinue the mandatory in-person interview at the interview facility; offers applications by mail, fax, on-line, or in-person; with a follow-up phone interview to ensure that all information is accurate and complete.   While phone interviews are the norm, exceptions will be made when in the best interest of the applicant. 

First Vice Chairperson Morrow continued that staff will go the applicant’s hospital facility, residence, or place of their choice when in the best interest of the applicant.   The information outlined is from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)
Regional Eligibility Program, which includes phone interviews as a legitimate option and were developed and reviewed by programs, agencies, seniors, and disabled in the nine Bay Area Region.   The proposed program includes the addition of a qualified experienced occupational therapist to conduct all administrative reviews of all applicants denied and the use of functional tests only in the appeals process.  The proposed program recognizes that the functional test will be conducted by qualified entities and professionals within the community qualified and experienced in the particular disability presented.  The functional tests would be conducted by qualified entities where the applicant feels comfortable.  The proposed program recognizes that new applicants would go through the same process as re-certified applicants. 

First Vice Chairperson Morrow commented that for individuals who wish to use fixed route for some of their trips will continue to be offered the picture identification card, which allows the individual to use bus and light rail service for free.   Individuals who cannot use fixed route would be issued the standard OUTREACH identification card.   First Vice Chairperson Morrow noted that the overall cost of the proposed program will be greatly reduced from the existing program and ensure accountability both VTA and CTA will monitor the Paratransit Eligibility Program as well as surveying applicants regarding their satisfaction with the program process. 

Ex-Officio Member Heatley commented that over the last several months staff had a number of different representatives from MTC and the Community Plan and the intent was to come up with a solution that met the advantage to make the program more like the regional level.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley continued that the other intent was to incorporate many of the highlights that came out of the Community Plan; therefore, the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Subcommittee believes that working inconjunction with VTA staff, and input from the community a “hybrid” has been developed that the best of the regional process as well as being adapted to the local need.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley commented that the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Modifications will be flexible and provides flexibility within the current program, which can be conducted with less costs.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley added that OUTREACH has ten years experience conducting this kind of program; therefore, we will be able to transition and move forward with this modified program process.

Member Slack queried about the necessity to have two different identification cards and queried if one card would serve both purposes.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that the picture identification card is required for those individuals who will use fixed route; however, for those individuals not using fixed route the traditional identification card will be issued.

Member Rhodes queried why the identification card has an expiration date and noted that a replacement card will have to be made when the card expires; therefore, increasing program cost.   Mr. Tucker responded that once an individual is deemed permanently eligible under ADA, the individual does not have to reapply.   Mr. Tucker noted that there are individuals who have permanent disabilities who are not permanently eligible under ADA guidelines.  Mr. Tucker added that the expiration date on the identification card is an administrative process is set up for the three years to ensure that information is updated; however, staff will work with OUTREACH during implementation to address concerns.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that the implementation process will start over the next six months and noted that the term expiration dates are in the Paratransit database, which are sent to MTC’s database; therefore, the reason for the expiration date on the card.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley noted that these issues are administrative and can be removed from the software; however, the decision will be made and addressed on protocol at that time.

Member Stahl queried about the ADA Categories and if the categories were still going to be used on the cards.   Mr. Tucker responded that we are required by ADA to continue to use the ADA Categories in eligibility determination of the customers.   Member Stahl noted that the Committee has had issues regarding the ADA Categories and expressed concern if there is a future plan to determine that every individual in category three will no longer be eligible for OUTREACH Paratransit Services.  Mr. Tucker responded that this is a different policy question then the modified program; however, noted that a while ago several items were deferred as part of the Paratransit Program.  Mr. Tucker commented that one item deferred was the South County surcharge and one was the category three issue; however, these items will be looked at over the next two year budget period and staff will forward a recommendation to VTA Board of Directors. Mr. Tucker noted that staff is willing to work with CTA in discussion regarding those items to bring to closure with VTA Board of Directors.

Member Gallo queried if OUTREACH will need to hire additional staff to address the business conducted in convalescent facilities.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that OUTREACH will hire three individuals plus an occupational therapist but is able to handle the demand.   Member Gallo queried when the home-interview option would be available.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that the home-interview option is available.  Member Gallo queried if a new applicant may request a home-interview visit or does the applicant have to go to the facility.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that this will be determined on a case-by-case basis depending on the individual disability.

Member Jensen expressed appreciation to Ms. Applegate for her diligent work within the community and the Community Plan presented to CTA.   Member Jensen expressed appreciation and thanked CTA for their diligent work regarding the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program.   Member Jensen expressed appreciation and thanked VTA for agreeing to the modifications and OUTREACH for agreeing to manage the eligibility process.

Member Michels expressed concern regarding a huge increase in low-income individuals and noted that 73 percent of her clients are living on less than $860 a month. Member Michels queried about a subsidy or grant included in the program for
low-income individuals in the County.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that this program is different than the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley noted as a non-profit agency OUTREACH subsidizes about 70,000 rides a year independent of VTA.  Member Michels commented that agencies are unaware of the subsidies or grants and queried about how to refer clients for assistance.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that when OUTREACH staff interviews clients they proceed through list, to determine if the client qualifies for subsidies and noted that OUTREACH does this independent as a non-profit agency, which is not part of VTA Paratransit Program. 

Ms. Applegate expressed concern regarding a number of individuals impacted by the health care physicians verification.  Ms. Applegate expressed support of the previous program, which allowed a license health professional to sign off on the verification. 
Ms. Applegate noted that she is a member of the RIDE Task Force, which is composed of different members in the County.  Ms. Applegate commented that the RIDE Task Force will discuss ideas for enhancing ridership at the December 14, 2005 RIDE Task Force Meeting.

M/S/C (Morrow/Rhodes) to endorse the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Program Modifications.

Fiscal Year 2006 – 2015 Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP)

Mr. Connolly provided a brief overview on the Fiscal Year 2006 – 2015 Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP).   Mr. Connolly commented that the SRTP was recently released and posted on the website yesterday in accessible format; however, apologized to the Committee for the delay.  Mr. Connolly commented that the SRTP is a group effort by staff and will try to answer questions; however, if unable to answer staff will forward the questions for a reply. 

Mr. Connolly commented that VTA, as a transit operator prepares the SRTP every two years as required by MTC and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).   The SRTP is used as documentation to support projects included in the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) prepared by MTC for a ten-year period.  It is a snap shot in time and not necessarily a final document since it is prepared every two years.   Mr. Connolly noted that the SRTP changes and staff often adds supplements and amendments as VTA’s budget condition changes.  The key elements are the Operations Plan and the Capital Plan.  The Draft Fiscal Year 2006 – 2015 SRTP is being presented to all VTA Committees in December 2005 for review and comment and is posted on VTA’s website for public review.  Staff will finalize the SRTP based on comments received prior to a final presentation at the January 5, 2006 VTA Board of Directors Regular Meeting. 

MTC and FTA require the SRTP for planning requirements.  In addition, the SRTP supports the activities and priorities contained in the County’s long-range transportation plan, Valley Transportation Plan (VTP) 2030.  Mr. Connolly noted that VTA is required to have an eligible SRTP document to qualify for grant funds and applications.  The SRTP is organized into five chapters and several appendices.  Chapters one and two provide an overview of the transit system, including the goals and objectives, guiding service implementation, and short-range and long-range planning.  Chapters three and four present the operating and capital budget information with detailed descriptions of specific budget components.  Chapter five and the appendices relay information about the public transit system, passenger demographics, and VTA’s on-going plans, policies, and programs.

Mr. Connolly continued that VTA operates 430 buses everyday on 69 Routes and
42 miles of light rail tracking with 62 stations and 100 vehicles.   VTA’s weekday ridership average in FY 2005 is 119,000, Saturday ridership is 69,000, and Sunday ridership is 55,000.  Mr. Connolly commented that VTA’s ridership is closely related to job growth in Santa Clara County.  VTA revenues are a direct function of ridership and sales taxes.  Although, VTA has had declines in ridership and service there are clear indications of recovery and VTA has achieved a level of fiscal stability.  Mr. Connolly commented that annual revenue hours of service for bus and light rail service has declined for five years by 18 percent since 2000.  Annual ridership for bus and light rail has declined 32 percent since 2000.  Mr. Connolly commented that farebox recovery has increased 15 percent and operating expenditures decreased 12 percent since 2003. 

Mr. Connolly commented on the Operating Financial Plan and noted that in FY 2006 and FY 2008 VTA shows a negative balance and in both cases it is because of the continuing decline in revenues and ridership as well as the inability to tap into another funding source; however, FY 2006 deficit will be funded by reserves and FY 2008 deficit is a result of the reduction in Federal Preventative Maintenance revenues.  Mr. Connolly continued that the Operating Reserve Ratio declines until 2011 then increases to nine percent by 2015.  Mr. Connolly commented on the Capital Improvement Program and noted that it is divided into the following seven groups: revenue vehicles and equipment; operations facilities and equipment; light rail way, power, and signal; passenger facilities; information systems and technology; miscellaneous projects; and Measure A projects.  Mr. Connolly noted that the Measure A Projects are not noted in the SRTP due to the unresolved issues at the Board level in terms of the Expenditure Plan for the
2000 Measure A Projects; however, other categories have dollar figures, which are spread out year-by-year for each of the category.

Mr. Connolly commented on the Capital Improvement Program and noted the following four projects: 1) Paratransit vehicles, which VTA has initiated a program to directly fund and provide certain vehicles to the contracted Paratransit vendor.   Currently, the Paratransit operator supplies the vehicles and noted for the ten year period, FY 2006 through FY 2015, VTA has included $22.96 million for this program; 2) Guadalupe Platform Retrofit Program - this project would raise existing station platforms at the downtown San Jose transit mall stations and the southern segment of Guadalupe to allow for use with low-floor vehicles. The project provides ease of use for passengers by allowing level platform boarding and noted for the ten year period, VTA has included $30.35 million for this program; 3) Real-Time Passenger Information System - this project will provide for the technology infrastructure to provide real-time transit information to passengers for bus and light rail. VTA has currently been awarded a grant from the Regional Measure 2 program for this effort; therefore, this grant in combination with federal grants and VTA resources will provide $5.6 million for this program; and 4) De Anza College Transit Center - the proposed transit center at De Anza College in Cupertino will involve the design and construction of a central on-campus facility.  The transit center provides for a convenient interface between local and regional bus service and improved route connectivity. VTA has included $4.63 million to complete this project. 

Mr. Connolly continued that the SRTP was developed and reviewed by staff in
May – June 2005 timeframe, the draft SRTP was submitted to MTC for review in
July 2005, staff reviewed the final SRTP in September – October 2005, forwarded to VTA Advisory Committees in December 2005, and will be forwarded to the
January 5, 2006 VTA Board of Directors Regular Meeting for consideration and added that the SRTP has to be adopted by VTA Board of Directors to serve as a final document to adhere to the guidelines by MTC.

Member Rhodes queried about technology and how to have this technology included in the Plan.   Mr. Unites responded that Real-Time Passenger Information System is included in the Plan.  Mr. Unites added that staff is researching all the technologies to determine how the program works; however, the design has not happened at this time.  Mr. Unites commented that there is money available in the 2000 Measure A Program for unidentified projects related to improving accessibility for seniors and disabled; however, the 2000 Measure A Program is not listed in this document.   Member Rhodes queried about VTA including parking spaces for paratransit vehicles and assisting to purchase fuel for paratransit vehicles without the fuel tax in order to keep paratransit costs down. Mr. Tucker responded that staff is exploring every option as part of the Plan and staff is working through the issues to identify ways to reduce costs for paratransit by purchasing vehicles and using the ability to purchase fuel tax-free.  Mr. Tucker commented on the Senior Disabled Program within the 2000 Measure A Program and added that it is not internally or externally identified for any activity and remains unspecified. 

Mr. Tucker continued that the Senior Disabled Program will be based on VTA Board of Directors direction with key input from stakeholders to determine how that money will be allocated. 

Member Rhodes expressed concern and noted that she did not have the opportunity to review the information.   Member Rhodes noted that staff needs to ensure that information is forwarded to Committee Members in timely manner in order to have the opportunity to review and provide comments.  

Member Jensen queried about the SRTP program as it relates to Paratransit and Farebox Recovery Ratio.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that the program has nothing to do with farebox policy and the farebox policy is something that VTA will have to address.  Member Jensen responded that CTA has previously discussed the farebox policy and would like to see it on the agenda soon.  Mr. Tucker responded that CTA recently passed a motion regarding the farebox policy that was forwarded to VTA Board of Directors; however, the Board decided to take no action to change the fare policy at this time.  Mr. Tucker noted that an appropriate time for CTA to discuss the farebox policy would be during budget discussion FY 2008 Budget; however, there are no anticipated fare increases. 

Member Jensen suggested CTA be allowed to discuss the farebox policy at a later date and requested figures on the Farebox Recovery Ratio without paratransit information included within the equation.   Mr. Tucker responded that paratransit is not reflected in the number and added that the Farebox Recovery Ratio reflects only bus and light rail service; therefore, there is no need to adjust the calculation.  Mr. Tucker added that farebox will be included on the CTA Workplan as a discussion item. 

Second Vice Chairperson Grant referenced SRTP FY 2006 – 2015 December 2005 Draft, Page 67, Table 4-3 Paratransit Vehicle Fleet Plan FY 2006 through FY 2016, and queried about the Paratransit Vehicle Fleet number remaining at 263 from now to 2016. Second Vice Chairperson Grant queried if the Paratransit Vehicle Fleet will not grow at all and if the old vehicles are being retired as they go out of service.   Mr. Tucker responded that the VTA system is going to shrink significantly over time and VTA is going back down to what is needed for pullout purposes, which is about 430 bus vehicles.  Mr. Tucker noted that paratransit is really demand driven; therefore, if VTA gets to a point where additional vehicles are needed additional vehicles will be added. 

Second Vice Chairperson Grant queried about the use of tokens for senior and disabled customers since tokens would be easier for senior and disabled customers to use. Mr. Tucker responded that there is discussion in the SRTP regarding funding in the farebox and noted that staff will conduct a gap analysis.   Mr. Tucker continued that TransLink has funding programmed for farebox as well as the Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA), an 18-24-month effort to determine effective and cost-efficient short-term and mid-term approaches to improving and expanding public transportation service in Santa Clara County.  

Second Vice Chairperson Grant stressed the importance of low-income customers and queried about providing bus service for the low-income customers.  Mr. Tucker referenced Page 60, Table 4-1 SCVTA – Capital Improvement Program, and noted that VTA wants to operate in terms of small capacity vehicles with better connections, which addresses a lot of the issues from the perspective of customers that CTA represents in terms of challenges and disabilities, which need additional service.  Mr. Tucker noted that the program shows no new funding sources other than funds VTA is receiving today. Mr. Tucker continued that the Board of Directors authorized VTA to bond to borrow money to continue to support VTA operations; however, staff has done a good job of reducing expenses and improving productivity; therefore, VTA never had to borrow the money.  VTA needs to identify new funding sources for growth and expansion. Mr. Tucker commented that part of the efforts that VTA is conducting with the COA and RIDE Task Force is to attract and develop ideas to enhance ridership.  Mr. Tucker added that the COA is a document to plan, to improve, and expand the system.  The COA is an on-going process, which is an on-board survey asking customers how VTA is doing by collecting information for segmentation analysis to determine how to attract new customers to use the system.  Mr. Tucker added that as staff starts to receive the deliverables the information will be forwarded to the Committee for discussion and feedback.

First Vice Chairperson Morrow referenced Page 67, 4.3.4 Paratransit Fleet and Facility, and queried how the broker is suppose to replace 200 vehicles by December 2006. First Vice Chairperson Morrow noted that the plan shows 45 VTA vehicles in 2006 depending on grant money and queried how much grant money will VTA receive as well as the actual number of vehicles purchased using the grant money. First Vice Chairperson Morrow queried about when VTA staff seriously started to plan for Paratransit Capital and requested a written response from staff.  Mr. Tucker responded that transit systems should use federal funds to leverage the cost of paratransit vehicles and added that within VTA’s budget staff has a line item for lease of vehicles; therefore, staff is determining the use of the fleet to have a normal replacement cycle.  Staff is determined to develop a program that would allow VTA to smooth the transition. Mr. Tucker noted that staff will provide a written response to Committee Members.

First Vice Chairperson Morrow referenced Page 90, 5.6.2 Congestion Management Program (CMP) and queried why CMPP did not have any performance measures. 

Ms. Applegate referenced Page 66, 4.3.4 Paratransit Fleet and Facility, and expressed concern regarding VTA taking paratransit in-house.   Ms. Applegate noted the importance and necessity of varied vehicles within the paratransit fleet.  Ms. Applegate queried what year the plan to develop the paratransit facility occurs.  Mr. Tucker responded that VTA does not have a plan to operate the paratransit contract internally.  Mr. Tucker stated that VTA works inconjunction with OUTREACH regarding the composition of the paratransit fleet vehicles.  Mr. Tucker added that there are many complicated issues that are in discussion and staff is working through regarding the paratransit facility. 

Chairperson Julian expressed concern for the impoverished in the community and noted that the issue needs to be addressed.  Chairperson Julian referenced Page 88, 5.4 Trans Response Plan (TRP), a comprehensive multi-modal transportation response, mutual aid, and coordination plan for public transit providers in the nine county Bay Area coordinated with the State Office of Emergency Services (OES), and noted that VTA’s partnership in the TRP is extremely underdeveloped.  Chairperson Julian queried about evacuation procedures for seniors and disabled customers on buses, light rail, and paratransit vehicles.  Chairperson Julian queried about the coordinated efforts to show plans and participation in actual trainings with individuals.  Chairperson Julian queried about how often VTA conducts live training for emergency and evacuation procedures with OUTREACH Paratransit broker.  Chairperson Julian queried about who was in charge for incident management on a community wide basis and asked about the procedure and protocol.  Mr. Tucker responded that an Emergency Preparedness Plan presentation is scheduled on the January 11, 2006 CTA Meeting Agenda. Chairperson Julian requested that the presentation be provided in print and accessible format for Committee Members.  Mr. Lau responded that staff will note the request for the presentation in print and accessible format.

Second Vice Chairperson Grant queried if the Travel Training Phase III of the Paratransit Improvement Program is still in effect.  Second Vice Chairperson Grant noted the importance that tokens would provide easier access for senior and disabled customers.  Mr. Tucker responded that Travel Training is part of the discussion for the Paratransit Eligibility Program and will be ongoing to clarify all the details.

Chairperson Julian suggested colorizing the tokens for senior and disabled to address the issue regarding the number of slots allowed in the farebox. 

The Committee reviewed and discussed the Fiscal Year 2006 – 2015 Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP).

Lifeline Transportation Program in Santa Clara County

Amin Surani, CMPP Senior Transportation Engineer, provided a brief overview on the Lifeline Transportation Program in Santa Clara County.   Mr. Surani commented that MTC has established the Lifeline Transportation Program to fund projects that result in improved mobility for low-income residents in the Bay Area.  MTC established the following goals for the Lifeline Transportation Program: 1) address transportation gaps and/or barriers identified through a Community Based Transportation Plan (CBTP) or regional Welfare-to-Work Transportation Plan; 2) develop CBTPs through a collaborative and inclusive planning process based on partnerships among a variety of stakeholders; and 3) improve a range of transportation choices by adding a variety of new or expanded services. 

Mr. Surani noted that approximately $4 million is available for funding Lifeline Transportation Projects in Santa Clara County over the next 3 years. 
Mr. Surani continued that Santa Clara County and VTA will jointly administer the program and intend to enter into a Cooperative Agreement, which establishes the roles and responsibilities of each agency.  The Cooperative Agreement establishes roles by building upon the strengths that each agency brings to the partnership.  The County with expertise in the social services area and VTA as the Congestion Management Agency (CMA) will work together.  Mr. Surani continued that VTA and the County intend to establish a “Joint Lifeline Transportation Committee” and the Committee will provide a forum for agency staff and community groups to coordinate and share information on projects.  The Joint Lifeline Transportation Committee will be responsible for developing a program, implementing a program, and making recommendations to the County Board of Supervisors and VTA Board of Directors for consideration, approval, and adoption. Mr. Surani continued that MTC anticipates issuing a call for Lifeline Transportation Program projects in March 2006.  Mr. Surani noted that the Joint Lifeline Transportation Committee will score the project once it is submitted and make a recommendation to the County Board of Supervisors and VTA Board of Directors.  The Joint Lifeline Transportation Committee will then establish a project list, which will be submitted to MTC at the end of June 2006.

Second Vice Chairperson Grant queried about the types of projects the program will fund.   Mr. Surani responded that the Joint Lifeline Transportation Committee will decide what types of projects to fund and added that the underlining criteria is to improve mobility in low-income areas.

Second Vice Chairperson Grant queried about who is responsible to conduct the Lifeline Transportation Program.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that MTC used to conduct a call for proposals for the Bay Area; however, MTC has streamlined the program and assigned it to the local level.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley continued that MTC changed the way they use to conduct the call for proposals; however, this is the first time that MTC is bringing funding to the local level process, specifically for disadvantage population, low-income, senior, and disabled communities.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley stressed the importance for CTA to be aware of the draft project proposals when the County releases them.

Second Vice Chairperson Grant queried if different agencies will apply for these grants.   Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded, “yes” and noted that non-profit agencies will be eligible to apply for these types of project grants.  Second Vice Chairperson Grant queried if this program was similar to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5310 Program grants and who would be involved to determine what projects receive funding.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley responded that the FTA Section 5310 Program is conducted by the State; however, the Lifeline Transportation Program in Santa Clara County is a Joint Powers Cooperative Agreement between the County and VTA.  Joint Lifeline Transportation Committee will be comprised of seven members to review projects by non-profit sector representation as well as public agencies.  Mr. Surani commented that the proposal in the Cooperative Agreement is to form a seven-member committee in which VTA Board of Directors will appoint two members, County Board of Supervisors will appoint two members, and the County Board of Supervisors will appoint three other community partner members.  The Joint Lifeline Transportation Committee will be responsible for program delivery, issue the call for projects, issuance applications, provide training on completing applications, as well as rank, score, and make the recommendations regarding the project applications to the County Board of Supervisors and VTA Board of Directors.

Member Jensen requested that CTA receive the results of how the Committee decides and distributes the funding for the projects.  

The Committee reviewed and discussed the Lifeline Transportation Program in Santa Clara County.

OTHER

Chairperson’s Report

There was no Chairperson’s Report.

Second Vice Chairperson Grant and Chairperson Julian expressed concern regarding the Mobility Device Securement equipment and operators not properly trained to use the equipment. 

First Vice Chairperson Morrow commented that he has forwarded the issue and concern to Operations staff to address.  First Vice Chairperson Morrow continued that the training component is still being worked out; therefore, all the operators have not received training to use the Mobility Device Securement equipment.  Ms. Pampy commented that staff anticipated operator training on the Mobility Device Securement equipment in early January 2006; however, operator training started this week; therefore, all operators will undergo training on the new Mobility Device Securement equipment.  Ms. Pampy noted that the next scheduled Mobility Device Securement Task Force Meeting is Friday, December 9, 2005.

Member Slack expressed concern regarding operators not properly trained on how to use the Mobility Device Securement equipment and stressed the importance to address the issue to ensure customers safety is not at risk.   First Vice Chairperson Morrow responded that Committee concerns and feedback will be forwarded to the Mobility Device Securement Task Force. 

Second Vice Chairperson Grant queried about the number of operators trained within a week timeframe.  Ms. Pampy responded that this will be forwarded to the Mobility Device Securement Task Force Meeting for discussion then forwarded to CTA.  Second Vice Chairperson Grant requested that the information be provided to CTA Members via e-mail.  Ms. Pampy responded that staff will provide the information via e-mail, accessible format, and large print to CTA Members.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley expressed appreciation to Committee Members.   

Member Slack expressed his appreciation for Chairperson Julian’s diligent work and efforts on CTA.  Committee Members expressed their appreciation to Chairperson Julian.

First Vice Chairperson Morrow acknowledged Chairperson Julian for his dedication and effort to assist the organization and CTA in moving forward related to the Mobility Device Securement Policy.   First Vice Chairperson Morrow expressed appreciation and gratitude to Chairperson Julian for diligent work.           

Mr. Lau commented that U. S. House of Representative Mike Honda has issued a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition to David Julian and Aaron Morrow for outstanding and invaluable service to the community, which will be presented to the honorees at the January 5, 2006 VTA Board of Directors Regular Meeting.  The Committee congratulated Chairperson Julian and First Vice Chairperson Morrow on their achievement.

Announcements

There were no Announcements.

The Committee adjourned the meeting at 3:01 p.m.