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Committee for Transit Accessibility

Wednesday, February 8, 2006
1:00 PM

Building A - Auditorium
Valley Transportation Authority (VTA)
3331 North First Street
San Jose, California

Minutes

1.

CALL TO ORDER


The Regular Meeting of the Committee for Transit Accessibility (CTA) was called to order at 1:05 p.m. by Chairperson Morrow 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)
Sandra Gouveia
David Grant, Second Vice Chairperson
Katie Heatley (Ex-Officio)
Troy Hernandez
Marjorie Jensen
David Julian
Martin Lasich
Allen F. Marcillet
Laura Michels
Aaron Morrow, Chairperson
Barbara Rhodes
Barbara Stahl
Dai Qui Vu

Members Absent
Emma Eljas
Linda Gallo
Thomas Slack

A quorum was present.

  
2. INTRODUCTION OF AUDIENCE MEMBERS

Received introductions from the audience including: Jack J. Collins, Chief Construction Officer; Jim Lawson, Government Affairs Manager; Matthew O. Tucker, Chief Operating Officer; Suzanne B. Gifford, General Counsel; Terry Applegate, Silicon Valley Independent Living Center; George Barlow, Chief Technology Officer; Bernice Alaniz, Marketing & Public Affairs Deputy Director; Tracy Pezeshki, Achieve Kids; David Ledwitz, VTA Accessible Services; Edna Pampy, VTA Accessible Services; Mark Thomas, VTA Bus Technical Training Supervisor, Doug Willis, VTA Field Transportation Supervisor; Jim Unites, VTA Operations Planning; Kevin Connolly, Transportation Planning Manager; Roger Contreras, Chief Financial Officer; Maria Marinos, VTA Office of the Board Secretary.
  
3.

PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS

Barbara Rhodes, Interested Citizen, expressed concern regarding operators and Customer Service Representatives (CSR’s) not being aware of the Senior/Disabled Free Fares Marketing Campaign from January – March 2006.   Ms. Rhodes noted that a community member inquired if the free fares campaign applied to Line 522 but was unable to receive any information.  Ms. Rhodes queried about the time schedule for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line 522.  Chairperson Morrow referred the question to staff for response. 

Adam Byrnes, staff aide representing Cindy Chavez (Ex-Officio Board Liaison) took his seat at 1:10 p.m.

Sam Lau, VTA Operations Planning and Support Services Deputy Director and CTA Staff Liaison, responded that staff that for Line 522 there is no fixed route schedule for stops and noted that it has a schedule for leaving the origin terminal.  The intent is for BRT Line 522 to proceed as fast as it can to the stops.

Ms. Rhodes queried about an estimated time schedule for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Line 522 to enable riders in determining if they can utilize the service.  Mr. Unites responded that VTA does publish a time table for Line 522 with estimated times and is also available on VTA’s website.

Ms. Rhodes expressed concern and noted that VTA’s website is not accessible for individuals who are visually impaired.  Ms. Rhodes stressed the importance for customers to be able to utilize the automated system to access transportation information.

  
4.

Committee Staff Report

Mr. Lau welcomed and introduced Dr. Dai Qui Vu, Agnews Developmental Center, to the Committee for Transit Accessibility (CTA).   Member Vu expressed appreciation to the Committee for the opportunity to serve as a member on CTA.  The Committee welcomed Member Vu to CTA.

Mr. Lau commented that VTA conducted the following three public outreach meetings in February 2006 regarding the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Process in the cities of San Jose, Gilroy, and Mountain View.  Mr. Lau noted that the majority of comments received were positive and related to returning the Paratransit Eligibility Certification Process back to OUTREACH.  Mr. Lau stated that a summary of the three public outreach meetings is available.

Mr. Lau stated that an overview regarding the emergency or evacuation process on transportation system from Jim Middleton, System Safety Manager, is scheduled to be presented at the March 8, 2006 CTA Meeting.

  
5.

Minutes of December 7, 2005

Member Grant referenced the December 7, 2005 CTA Meeting Minutes Page 15 of 16, Paragraph 7, noting 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.

Member Grant requested that staff provide the information regarding the number of operators trained within a week timeframe to CTA Members.  Mr. Lau responded that staff will provide the information on Agenda Item #  10., Transportation Supervisor Information.

The Agenda was taken out of order.

  
9.

Bus Mobility Device Securement Policy

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes commented that the Mobility Device Securement Policy implementation date has been extended to 2007 and queried if the intent was to provide the drivers with training and practice so when implementation goes into effect the community will have more confidence and acceptance for the Policy.  Chairperson Morrow requested that the question be held until that Agenda Item is presented to the Committee.

  
5.

Minutes of December 7, 2005 (continued)

M/S/F (Julian/Gouveia) to approve the Minutes of December 7, 2005.  Member Grant, Member Jensen, and  First Vice Chairperson Rhodes abstained.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes expressed concern regarding the microphones and audio recording system malfunctions during the CTA Committee Meeting.   First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stressed the importance to have the microphones and audio recording system set up early and working properly for the Committee Meetings.

  
6.

Summary Minutes of January 11, 2006

The Committee reviewed the Summary Minutes of January 11, 2006.

  

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

7.

Orientation Presentation

Jim Lawson, Government Affairs Manager, commented that he was here representing Michael T. Burns, General Manager, who sent his regrets for not being able to attend the CTA Meeting.   Mr. Lawson stated that Mr. Burns is currently involved in an interview process.  Mr. Lawson continued that executive staff is in attendance to provide an overview of VTA and provide information on the organization structure, the roles and responsibilities, activities, and budget as well as to introduce the various divisions of VTA. 

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes expressed concern and noted that it would have beneficial to the CTA Members to know that the Board Orientation Binder was going to be discussed.   Chairperson Morrow noted his confusion related to the Board Orientation Binder.   Chairperson Morrow stated that the Board Orientation Binder did not refer to the CTA; therefore, he thought the binder was intended for VTA Board of Directors and not the CTA Committee.  Mr. Lawson responded that the Board Orientation Binder was designed for VTA Board of Directors; however, staff was directed to provide a copy of the binder to all VTA Advisory Committees as a beneficial reference.  Mr. Lawson stated that staff believed that this would be an appropriate opportunity for VTA Advisory Committees to meet the chiefs responsible for each division within the organization. 

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes expressed appreciation for the vital information contained in the binder but stressed the importance to have better communication between staff and CTA Committee.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley suggested that the Committee receive a brief overview related to the contents of the Board Orientation Binder and the presentation by staff.   The Committee agreed to receive a brief overview of the Board Orientation Binder and presentation.

Mr. Lawson commented that the Board Orientation Binder is provided to new incoming Board Members every year to provide a specific reference regarding all the various aspects of the organization.   The Board Orientation Binder contains a folder with handout materials, Compact Disk (CD), which includes all the information within the Board Orientation Binder, and other relevant information.  The Board Orientation Binder includes VTA’s Visions, Missions and Goals; an overview of the Board of Directors, 2006 Board of Director and Committee Meeting Schedules, Administrative Code, 2000 Measure A Ballot Language, Adopted Biennial Budget 2006 – 2007, Short Range Transit Plan (SRTP) 2006 – 2015, and Valley Transportation Plan (VTP) 2030. 

Mr. Lawson referenced the Office of the General Manager and noted that the responsibilities are to provide Board Support, Policy Development, Strategic Planning, and Intergovernmental and Business Relations.   The Office of the General Manager consists of the Office of the Board Secretary, Copy Center, and Records Management and Document Control.   Maria Marinos, Board Secretary, is responsible to provide Board Support and has eight Board Assistants.  The Copy Center operates 24 hours a day and has six employees.  Kurt Evans and Jim Lawson staff the Intergovernmental and Business Relations Department.  Mr. Lawson continued that the goals of the Office of the General Manager are to increase ridership, to improve financial stability in the organization, improve relationships with VTA Board Committees, Governmental Agencies within the area, and Transportation Stakeholders, and the delivery of Capital Programs.   

Mr. Lawson introduced Suzanne Gifford, General Counsel, who provided a brief overview of the Office of the General Counsel.   Ms. Gifford commented that the Office of the General Counsel consists of seven attorneys and two staff employees.  Ms. Gifford noted that she reports directly to the VTA Board of Directors.  The Office of the General Counsel’s responsibilities are to provide legal advice and counsel to all divisions and departments as well as to the General Manager and VTA Board of Directors.  Ms. Gifford stated that the goals of the Office of the General Counsel is to assist divisions to achieve their goals by providing legal advice, counsel, and support.  The Office of the General Counsel handles all legal aspects for the organization except workers compensation, which is handled by outside counsel.  The Office of the General Counsel has experience in the following areas: federal grants, state contracting law, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Disadvantage Business Enterprise (DBE), Equal Employment Opportunity Act (EEO), Title 6 and Title 7 - Civil Rights Act, federal by America Requirements, Public and National Labor Relations Employment Law, Discrimination, Wage and Hour Issues, Public Meetings, The Brown Act, Conflict of Interest, Public Record, Congestion Management Laws of California, Federal Transit Funding, Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) related issues, Construction Law, Railroad Law, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Federal Transportation Law, Taxation Law, Litigation, Personal Injury Law, Public Pension Law, Domestic Relations Orders, and Deferred Compensation, and Labor Law Administration.  Ms. Gifford stated that VTA utilizes outside counsel for few matters.  Ms. Gifford noted that the Office of the General Counsel budget for FY 2005 is approximately $1.5 million and $1 million for outside counsel.

Matthew O. Tucker, Chief Operating Officer, referenced the Operations Division and noted that it consists of 1,700 employees the bulk of which are bus and light rail operators, and other employees related to the maintenance activity to support day-to-day activities of operations.   Mr. Tucker commented that the Operations Division is responsible for a wide variety of functions with the focus related to the maintenance of bus and light rail services and facilities.   Mr. Tucker stated that VTA has an active fleet of 423 buses and 100 light rail vehicles.  The Operations Division provides shuttle service, manages paratransit service by contracting with OUTREACH Paratransit Services, and provides contracted service with Caltrain, Altamont Commuter Express (ACE), Highway 17 Express, and Dumbarton Service.  The Operations Division is responsible for service planning, schedules, and operator training.  The Operations Division includes Protective Services for transit patrol and security, which consists of reporting and analysis, system support, and administrative support.

Jack J. Collins, Chief Construction Officer, referenced the Construction Division, which manages construction of VTA’s rail, highway, and facilities projects.   The Construction Division accomplishments include the Vasona Light Rail Project, 880 widening landscaping, 152 Phase B1, 85 Noise Mitigation Project, Cerone Division Improvement to the operations and repair buildings, and improvements for the Zero Emission Buses (ZEB’s) fueling facility.   Mr. Collins commented that the goals are to complete the following projects: River Oaks Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge in March 2006, Preliminary Engineering (PE) for Silicon Valley Rapid Transit, PE for Capital Expressway Light Rail (LR) Project, Coleman/880 Interchange Project, 85/101 North Interchange Project, 17 Auxiliary Lanes from Hamilton to Camden, Route 87 North High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV), 152 B Project, commence construction of the Downtown Platform Retrofit Project, commence construction of 152/156 Improvement Project, and commence construction of landscaping for 85/101 North and Coleman/880 Interchange Project.

Member Grant asked about light rail from Downtown San Jose to East Valley and if that project is moving forward.   Mr. Collins responded that the project is currently in the Environmental Impact Study (EIS) Phase where two alternatives are being considered for the project, which are Enhanced Bus and Single Car Light Rail.  The EIS is scheduled to be completed later this year or early next year and noted that the VTA Board of Directors have not determined the transportation mode for the project.

Member Grant referenced the 2000 Measure A Program Downtown East Valley Project and asked if the mode could be changed.   Mr. Collins responded that part of the Downtown East Valley Corridor is light rail to Eastridge but the 2000 Measure A Program does not define the mode along Santa Clara/Alum Rock; therefore, VTA Board of Directors have not determined the transportation mode for the project. 

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stressed the importance of receiving comments from the riders of the service regarding the transportation mode selection for the project. 
First Vice Chairperson Rhodes asked where to forward comments on the transportation mode for the project.   Chairperson Morrow recommended that the appropriate staff respond to First Vice Chairperson Rhodes question after the meeting. 

Chairperson Morrow asked for the name of the contractor awarded the contract for the Downtown Platform Retrofit Project.   Mr. Collins responded that VTA Board of Directors awarded the project to Robert Botham.

Roger Contreras, Chief Financial Officer, referenced the Fiscal Resources Division, which is divided into four departments:   1) Accounting Compliance Review Department - conducts reports on VTA’s financial condition, 2) Contracts and Materials Management Department – administers and manages contracts, 3) Disbursements and Revenue Services Department – review invoices, process payroll checks, currency, and coins, and 4) Treasury and Financial Planning Department – financing, managing an investment portfolio, and preparing the biennial budget.   The Fiscal Resources Division accomplishments include financing transactions regarding subleasing Light Rail Vehicles (LRV), lease to service for Low Floor LRVs, refunded 2001 Bonds for $17 million in savings, investment earnings, implemented first biennial budget, and fare policy.  The Fiscal Resources Division goals include financing transactions to remarket 2000 Measure A Bonds, fund accounting conversion, annual vendor fair, annual compliance review plan, and the automated budget system.

Member Grant asked how much of the 2000 Measure A funding has been borrowed against.   Mr. Contreras responded that VTA Board of Directors authorized $80 million to be utilized to fund operating expenses but the funding was unused.   Mr. Contreras noted that 2000 Measure A bonds were issued to fund Capital Improvement Projects.

George Barlow, Chief Technology Officer, referenced the Technology Division and responsibilities include providing technology assistance to all departments and divisions and to enable the users to perform tasks in a more efficient and cost effective manner.   The Technology Division consists of the three following departments: 1) Technology department – responsible for administrative duties and functions within the Technology Division, 2) Infrastructure department - responsible for the desktop programs, network, and electronic mail (e-mail), and 3) Applications department - responsible for the applications and provides support to programs.   The major programs are the following: 1) Bid Dispatch and Timekeeping System (BDT) – operator payroll system, 2) Expedition Program – used by the Construction Division to monitor progress of large projects, 3) Advance Communication System (ACS) – computer dispatch, locator system, and Global Positioning System (GPS), which tracks the buses and conducts radio communication with the buses and light rail vehicles, 4) SAP – core system of VTA organization, which tracks all financial activities within the organization, 5) Trapeze – used by Operations Division related to the schedules, and 6) Cameras on the buses and  LRV’s, which are monitored by Protective Services to ensure activities are monitored to deter crime.  Technology Division accomplishments are the Technology Strategic Plan/Capital Investment Program, installed Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) on 80 LRV’s, reduced Technology service delivery costs, and completed setup of VTA Backup Recovery Center at Guadalupe Light Rail.  The Technology Division goals include SAP Hardware and Software upgrades, “Real Time Customer Information”, implementation of new Budget System, upgrade security cameras on VTA buses, and the TransLink Program.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl queried about the ACS and if it deals with time schedules.   Second Vice Chairperson Stahl expressed concern regarding bus operators who do not stop to pick up individuals in wheelchairs due to time constraints in meeting their bus schedules.  Mr. Barlow responded that the ACS informs the operators regarding how they are doing on their scheduled routes.   Mr. Barlow noted that the Operations Division ensures that all operators continue to pick up customers at all the bus stops.  Mr. Barlow added that the concern will be referred to the Operations Division.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes asked about VTA’s website and what is being done to make it more user friendly and accessible.   First Vice Chairperson Rhodes queried about talking signs to assist visually impaired individuals to navigate around the system.  Mr. Barlow responded that staff is working with the Marketing Department regarding the website to continue to make improvements.   Mr. Barlow commented that staff is looking into having some devices that are audible with the “Real Time Customer Information”.  Staff is looking into telephone contacts where visually impaired individuals can call in and input their stop information to determine when the vehicle will arrive.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stressed the importance of having a usable, easy to read, and accessible website.   Mr. Barlow responded that staff will continue to work collaboratively with Marketing and Technology to make the website user friendly for all customers.

Chairperson Morrow expressed appreciation and thanked staff for working to address the issues regarding the microphone audio recording system.   Chairperson Morrow requested that staff work to address the microphone audio recording system and headset issues before the next CTA Committee Meeting.   Mr. Barlow responded that staff will continue to work to address the issues with the microphone audio recording system. 

Ex-Officio Member Heatley commented that many of the issues are about Intelligent Transportation (IT) and suggested that CTA begin to work on a regular basis with the division that works on IT systems then CTA can provide input early on.   Mr. Barlow responded that staff will continue to implement the initiative for “Full Participation and Full Information” and noted that staff is planning to bring a presentation regarding the “Real Time Customer Information” within the next two months to receive input from CTA.

Adam Byrnes, staff aide representing Cindy Chavez (Ex-Officio Board Liaison)

left the meeting at 2:10 p.m.

Ms. Applegate queried about the organizations Marketing Department is working with to make VTA’s website accessible.   Ms. Applegate expressed concern regarding the button to inform the operator that more time is required to de-board the LRV.   Ms. Applegate noted many complaints from clients stating that the button is either not working or the system does not work well and queried if IT and/or Operations Division are working to address concerns.  Mr. Barlow responded that the LRV doors are a maintenance and operations function and the concern will be referred to the Operations Division.  Mr. Barlow commented that VTA has in-house staff with expertise and certified to working with accessible websites and has had consultants working with staff on the website as well.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes requested a meeting with Mr. Barlow to address her concerns regarding VTA’s website accessibility issues in an effort to address the issues.

Ms. Applegate queried about the 2000 Measure A Program and sales tax.   Mr. Lawson responded that staff will be available after the presentation to answer Ms. Applegate’s questions.   Chairperson Morrow requested that Ms. Applegate submit her questions to staff for response.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes suggested that the information be brought back to the Committee since it is important information for the Committee to know.   Chairperson Morrow responded that he will work with staff to place the information on a future CTA Meeting Agenda.

Bernice Alaniz, Marketing and Public Affairs Deputy Director, commented that she was here representing Carolyn M. Gonot, Chief Development Officer for the Development and Congestion Management (DCM) Division.   Ms. Alaniz commented that the DCM Division is comprised of the following four departments: 1) Ms. Alaniz, Marketing and Public Affairs Deputy Director, responsible for the content of the website, public affairs and outreach efforts, customer service, and creative services; 2) Ann Jamison, Congestion Management and Planning Deputy Director, responsible for long-range transit plan VTP 2030, producing Congestion Management Plan (CMP), development and implementation of the design in transportation program, bicycle and pedestrian program, conceptual design for the 2000 Measure A Program projects, and Downtown East Valley project; 3) John Ristow, Administration and Programming Deputy Director, responsible for the programming and grants, allocation of state and federal funding for the highway projects, oversees the environmental planning for projects, and real estate acquisitions for projects; and 4) David Miller, Commercial Development Manager, responsible for identifying and investigating opportunities for joint development ventures.

Ms. Applegate referenced the VTP 2030 public meetings and queried about the comments received regarding the lack of senior and disabled programs in the VTP 2030.   Ms. Alaniz responded that staff will forward the concern to Ms. Jamison.

Chairperson Morrow requested that Ms. Applegate submit all her questions to staff for response and inclusion in the Committee Minutes.

Mr. Lawson noted that Mr. Burns is currently interviewing for the position of Chief Administrative Officer.   Mr. Lawson stated that over the past couple of years VTA has eliminated 400 positions. 

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes asked how many positions were added to VTA. 
Mr. Lawson responded that the full time equivalent staffing level for this year is 2,217 and next year the staffing level will be 2,166; therefore, a decrease of 50 positions. 
Mr. Lawson noted that the intention is that the staffing level be comprised of individuals delivering service to the public.

Mr. Lawson commented that the Administrative Services Division has three groups:
1) Employee Services Department headed by Shellie Albright, Employee Services Manger; 2) Risk Management Department headed by Nanci Eksterowicz, Risk Manager; and 3) Employee Relations Department headed by Bob Escobar, Employee Relations Manager. 

Mr. Lawson expressed appreciation to the Committee for the opportunity to present the information and extended an invitation to attend the VTA Committee Meetings. 
Mr. Lawson noted that the intent of the General Manager was to make sure that the Committee had the opportunity to meet the various division chiefs.   Mr. Lawson stated that staff will schedule tours of VTA facilities and will make sure to notify the Committee Members of the tour dates.    

Mr. Lawson noted that VTA is unique in that it is comprised to do the following three things: transit, construction, and land use planning.   Mr. Lawson stated that those three things are closely related and the more that we can make land use planning decisions to impact our transit and highway construction the better off it will be for all the citizens of the Santa Clara County.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes queried about the number of individuals with disabilities that are employed at VTA.   Mr. Lawson responded that staff will forward the concern to Mr. Escobar for response.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl noted if staff is planning to provide a presentation it would be beneficial to the Committee to know what items they need to bring to the meeting.   Mr. Lawson responded that staff will make note of the request.

Ms. Applegate queried about the decisions between Operations Division, General Counsel, and Accessible Services conduct regarding the Paratransit Eligibility Process when it was changed.   Ms. Applegate queried about the advice prior to the implementation of the Paratransit Eligibility Process.   Mr. Tucker responded that General Counsel reviewed all the recommendations in the memorandums related to the Paratransit Eligibility Process and was not out of compliance with regard to ADA requirements.

Member Marcillet expressed appreciation and thanked staff for the diligent work and noted that he has a better understanding of VTA organization.

The Committee received the Orientation Presentation from VTA Executive Staff.

  
11.

Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA) Overview

The Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA) Overview was deferred.

  

OTHER

12.

Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) Elderly/Disabled Advisory Committee Report

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) Elderly/Disabled Advisory Committee Report was deferred.

  
14.

Chairperson’s Report

There was no Chairperson’s Report.

  
13.

CTA Transit System Ridership Report

The CTA Transit System Ridership Report was deferred.

  

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

8.

Full Participation, Full Information               

Mr. Lau provided a brief overview of VTA Chairperson Cindy Chavez’s 2006 Initiative, “Full Participation, Full Information,” and strategies to increase effectiveness of the Committee for Transit Accessibility (CTA).   Mr. Lau commented that VTA Chairperson Chavez requested that staff share this information with all VTA Advisory Committees and noted the following three major areas of focus: Financial and Organizational Assessment, Business Practices, and Staffing Levels.   Mr. Lau continued that staff was directed to report back to the Board of Directors in 90 days with a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for this type of assessment along with a timeline that illustrates when the Board can expect to see the results of the audit.  The second part of the initiative will increase the value of communication as it relates to VTA Advisory Committees and Board relationships. Mr. Lau referenced the third part of the initiative Legislative Advocacy and noted that the VTA Board Chairperson has directed staff to look at  existing contractual relationships with Advocacy firms in Washington, D. C. and in Sacramento to reassess the contract with the current lobbyist.  Mr. Lau continued that the intent is for all VTA Advisory Committees to provide suggestions to improve communications and effectiveness of the various committees. 

Member Gouveia suggested that CTA have more control over their Committee Agenda and noted that Agenda Item # 7., Orientation Presentation was placed on the Committee Agenda without their knowledge.  Chairperson Morrow responded that that the Orientation Presentation was placed on all VTA Advisory Committees Agendas.  Chairperson Morrow noted that he is actively involved working with staff regarding the agenda items on the CTA Workplan.  Mr. Lau commented that staff meets with the CTA Chairperson every six months to review the entire list of agenda subject item topics that the Committee would like to receive.  Mr. Lau noted there are some items that are placed on all VTA Advisory Committees through direction by the Board of Directors.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley requested clarification regarding the Agenda Item # the Committee was referring to regarding the hiring of consultants to conduct audits.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley queried about the opportunities to provide a more in-depth understanding regarding the part that CTA will participate and weigh in on the Agenda Item.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley stressed the importance to allow CTA to be involved and part of the process early on in order to provide input.   Mr. Tucker responded that the Board directed staff to come back in 90 days with a framework so staff anticipates that in the months of March and April timeline to forward an item to VTA Board of Directors outlining exactly when staff will move forward with the organizational assessment.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl asked if the Committee is going to be informed of the method.   Second Vice Chairperson Stahl stated that part of the problem is that staff does not inform CTA. 

Chairperson Morrow asked for clarification and if the Committee was discussing Agenda Item # 8., VTA Chairperson Chavez’s “Full Participation and Full Information” Initiative or Agenda Item # 11., Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA).   Ex-Officio Member Heatley stated that she wanted to know if there was a connection between the two Agenda Items.   Mr. Lau responded “no” and noted that Agenda Item # 11., Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA) is related to looking at routes and services and Agenda Item # 8., “Full Participation and Full Information” Initiative is looking at organizational.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl stressed the importance for CTA to be kept informed.   Second Vice Chairperson Stahl expressed concern and noted that in the past CTA has not had any input in the Committee Agenda nor has had the support of staff. 

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl expressed concern that when the Committee passes an item or issue it is ignored.  Second Vice Chairperson Stahl stressed the importance for the Committee to be informed when and what staff plans on doing.  Mr. Tucker responded that the recommendation will go directly back to the Board of Directors.  Mr. Tucker commented that if any member wishes to give input then it would be beneficial to attend the Board Meeting to provide comments.  Mr. Tucker noted that this is an outline on scope of work and not a recommendation that is being forwarded to the Board of Directors.  Staff will tell the Board of Directors how staff recommends how the Board proceeds in terms of bringing a consultant on board to do the analysis.  Mr. Tucker stated that the consultant will do that analysis and report back to the Board of Directors.

Member Jensen expressed appreciation for the notion of “Full Participation and Full Information” Initiative but expressed concern that Mr. Byrnes, staff aide representing Cindy Chavez Ex-Officio Board Liaison, was not in attendance for the full meeting.   Member Jensen stressed the importance for Mr. Byrnes to fully participate within the Committee.   Chairperson Morrow responded that he as the CTA Chairperson can bring this issue up at the March 2, 2006 Board of Directors Meeting.  Mr. Tucker noted that Mr. Byrnes had another commitment that he needed to attend.  Mr. Tucker continued that Mr. Byrnes is very involved in the issues relative to CTA and is actively engaged. Mr. Tucker stated that VTA Chairperson Chavez is also actively engaged and wants to ensure that her “Full Participation and Full Information” Initiative is put forth and implemented.

Mr. Tucker stated that he feels comfortable to say that if the CTA Chairperson wanted something on the Committee Agenda then it would be put forth.   Mr. Tucker commented that staff has worked to identify the items that CTA wanted on their Committee Agenda.   Staff has been open to the Agenda Items requested by CTA to be placed on the Committee Agenda.  Mr. Tucker stated that staff has worked collaboratively with CTA to have items placed on the Committee Agenda but if this has not happened then staff would like to know about it. 

Chairperson Morrow stated that he is diligently working with staff regarding the Committee Agenda and noted that items are programmed on the workplan to be presented to CTA.

Ms. Applegate stressed the importance of the “Full Participation and Full Information” Initiative and suggested that the Committee create an Agenda Committee to meet to set what the Committee wants on the Agenda.   Ms. Applegate queried about the financial assessment and asked if there is an outside audit being done and if so, who is being named to conduct that audit. 

The Committee received the overview of VTA Chairperson Cindy Chavez’s 2006 Initiative, “Full Participation, Full Information”.

  
9.

Bus Mobility Device Securement Policy

Mr. Tucker provided a brief overview on the Mobility Device Securement Policy. 
Mr. Tucker expressed appreciation and thanked the CTA Committee and Securement Subcommittee Task Force for their diligent work regarding the Securement Policy.  Mr. Tucker commented that previously CTA had taken action to approve the Mobility Device Securement Policy and was forwarded to the Transit Operations and Planning (TP&O) Committee.   Mr. Tucker stated that some implementation questions were raised at the December 15, 2005 TP&O Committee Meeting so staff was directed to go back and address the issues related to securement denials.   Staff believed that it would be prudent to forward the issues to the Securement Subcommittee Task Force to work through then to CTA and TP&O Committees that initially approved the Policy before staff forwarded the Policy to the March 2, 2006 VTA Board of Directors for consideration. 

Mr. Tucker noted that one of the items discussed at the December 15, 2005 TP&O Committee Meeting was how staff would address denials of service if a customer refused to be secured on the bus.  Mr. Tucker commented that staff cannot necessarily write all standard operating procedure to handle the issue but layout some principles.  Mr. Tucker noted that the first principle and top priority is safety and nothing takes precedence above safety in terms of dealing with someone who declines to be secured. 

Mr. Tucker continued that VTA has practical experience in dealing with customer concerns on the bus, which is something that happens day-to-day whether it is an issue relative to fare or securement.   Mr. Tucker stated that these concerns will require training, informational brochures, and support from VTA Operations Control Center. 

Mr. Tucker stated that the third principle is that VTA is not going to abandon passengers.   Mr. Tucker noted that the bottom line is how VTA is going to handle refusals for securement and noted that they will be handled on a case-by-case basis.  Mr. Tucker continued that it would be less than forthcoming to say that staff could capture a Policy that would address every situation.  The best answer from an operations perspective is that in some instances customers will be allowed to ride unsecured and in other instances they will not.  Mr. Tucker stressed the importance and noted that VTA’s top priority is safety. 

Mr. Tucker commented that initially implementation was scheduled for January 1, 2006 but the date has been adjusted to January 1, 2007 to allow the community time to accept the Policy as well as to continue to offer training to operators.  Mr. Tucker noted that 65 percent of VTA operators have had hands on training and noted that the intent is to strengthen the training operators have received.

Mr. Tucker referenced the Alameda-Contra Costa (AC) Transit District program where mobility devices are pre-marked for securement.  Mr. Tucker noted that staff is planning to conduct this type of activity between now and January 1, 2007 to address concerns regarding the proper point to secure mobility devices in the buses.  Customers will be able to have their mobility devices pre-taped at key strategic positions so then the bus operators know exactly where to secure the mobility device.

Mr. Tucker expressed appreciation and thanked the Securement Subcommittee Task Force and CTA for their diligent work and effort to assist in making the system safer. 

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl stressed the importance of drivers being sensitive to the customers and noted customer’s fear of being strapped in the bus.   Second Vice Chairperson Stahl noted that customer’s fear that they will not be able to get out in the event of an emergency so it would be beneficial if the drivers could reassure the customer and say, “do not worry we will be able to get you out.”  Mr. Tucker responded that operators have a kit on the buses, which includes a cutter for emergency situations so for whatever reason if the driver needed to remove the securement device as quick as possible the cutter is available to remove the restraint system. 

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes queried about the cutters and asked what is staff going to do to guarantee that the cutters are in the driver’s kit.   First Vice Chairperson Rhodes expressed concern that the Committee was not informed of the new implementation date. 

Member Marcillet suggested that the Marketing Department utilize the opportunity to get the exposure out to the media and conduct public service announcements with local television networks regarding the Policy.  Member Marcillet stressed the importance for drivers to be sensitive regarding this issue and noted that a mobility device is an extension of the individual’s own body.  Mr. Tucker responded that staff has an ongoing initiative with the bus operators regarding this issue.

Member Grant requested that the Committee receive a presentation on the curriculum that was developed with ADA awareness and sensitivity training.  Member Grant requested that the trainer present the exact training that drivers are given.  Member Grant requested that VTA provide a detailed Securement and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) awareness sensitivity training demonstration to CTA.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stressed the importance of sensitivity training for operators and queried about hiring persons with disabilities to sensitize drivers to the challenges that individuals with disabilities experience on a day-to-day basis.

Member Grant asked what staff is proactively doing to address the issue.  Mr. Tucker responded that staff is in the process of developing a scope of work where a mystery rider would observe the operator on board regarding compliance of ADA regulations to ensure that operators are following all of VTA’s policy and procedures.  Mr. Tucker noted that staff can include the results of the audit on CTA’s Agenda so the Committee can receive feedback on the results.

Member Grant queried about the length of time for information to come back to the Committee.  Mr. Tucker responded that staff intends to do some of the mystery audits in the May or June timeframe so the results will be available in about three to four months.

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes expressed concern regarding the hiring of consultants to conduct the audits.   First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stressed the importance for CTA Members to be involved in the interview process for the Accessible Services Manager position.  First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stated that many Accessible Services Managers do not have a disability so they do not understand the needs of the disabled community.  

M/S/C (Grant/Rhodes) to recommend that VTA will provide a detailed Securement and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) awareness sensitivity training demonstration to CTA.

Member Grant expressed concern and stressed the importance for the Committee to table the recommendation until they received the information regarding the training demonstration.

Chairperson Morrow agreed that the Committee is unable to endorse the Mobility Device Securement Policy until the training curriculum is provided to CTA for review.

M/S/C (Rhodes/Grant) to extend the CTA Committee Meeting.

Chairperson Morrow expressed concern and noted that he has not seen any training curriculum from the Securement Subcommittee Task Force.   Mr. Tucker responded that the recommendation relates to the policy whether VTA will require customers to be secured on bus vehicles. 

First Vice Chairperson Rhodes stressed the importance for the Committee to review the training curriculum.   Mr. Tucker responded that CTA could condition the motion to state that pending confirmation of the driver training that CTA endorses the policy.  Chairperson Morrow responded that he would agree to this motion. 

The Committee expressed concern and suggested to table the Mobility Device Securement Policy recommendation.  

Member Julian noted that the Policy referenced implementation on January 1, 2007 and noted that the Committee can vote on the recommendation and still has time to continue discussion related to the training curriculum.

Member Grant expressed concern and noted that CTA has little control over the Committee Agenda so noted that the odds that the item will come back at a later time is questionable.   Member Julian responded that both he and Chairperson Morrow have worked diligently with the Securement Subcommittee Task Force to ensure that issues are addressed.  Member Julian extended an invitation to the Committee to participate in the Securement Subcommittee Task Force.

Member Jensen suggested a timeframe for the training curriculum presentation to be presented to CTA.

Second Vice Chairperson Stahl expressed concern regarding the Committee approving the Mobility Device Securement Policy before receiving the presentation on the training curriculum.   Mr. Tucker responded that the Committee previously endorsed the Mobility Device Securement Policy at the December 7, 2005 Meeting.  Mr. Tucker noted that the Mobility Device Securement Policy will be forwarded to the February 15, 2006 TP&O Committee Meeting then to the March 2, 2006 VTA Board of Directors Regular Meeting for consideration. 

M/S/F (Morrow/Julian) that CTA endorses the recommendation to adopt a mobility securement policy pending staff providing documentation and presentation to support that adequate training for operators exist.

Ex-Officio Member Heatley noted that there may be some confusion and referenced a request from Member Bruntz for the Committee to receive information regarding the curriculum.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley stated that there was an assumption that the item was going back to the Securement Subcommittee Task Force but noted a disconnect and suggested that staff review and figure out if the item was going to the Securement Subcommittee Task Force or CTA.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley noted that there are two pieces – the first piece relates to the securement and the second piece relates to ADA sensitivity training.  Ex-Officio Member Heatley stated that there is confusion on the floor because the Committee believes that they have requested information regarding the ADA sensitivity training curriculum and this needs to be clarified.

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

  

OTHER (continued)

10.

Transportation Supervisor Information

The Transportation Supervisor Information report was deferred.

  
15.

Announcements

There were no Announcements.

  
16. ADJOURNMENT

The Committee adjourned the meeting at 3:14 p.m.


Respectfully submitted,



Michelle M. Garza, Board Assistant
VTA Board of Directors