HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-22-10 Utilities Committee-~~v ^I, I
~~.-. -" UTILITIES COMMITTEE MARCH 22, 2010
Committee Members Present: Oliver Davis, Chairperson, Ann Puzzello,
Tom LaFountain, AI "Buddy" Kirsits
Other Council Members Present: Derek D. Dieter, Henry Davis, Tim Rouse, Karen White
Others Present: Mayor Luecke, Tom Price, Gary Gilot, Rita Kopala,
Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand, Maurice Pearle
Agenda: TRANSPO Facility Progress Report
Councilmember Oliver Davis, who serves on, the Transpo Board of Directors, scheduled a
meeting of his Council Utilities Committee to update fellow Councilmember's on the latest
developments facing TRANSPO.
First, Oliver referenced recent articles in South Bend Tribune dealing with the possible fare
increases being considered by the Board. The dilemma is frankly one where the Board faces a
growing deficit at a time when those riders who most rely on public transportation are often those
who can least afford an increased fare. He noted while the deficit requires attention thee are
groups such as "Bridges Out of Poverty" who claim a fare increase is a misplaced solution, not at
all constructive. The issue remains under study as the Board searches for an optimum solution.
Next, Oliver introduced Maurice Pearle, the Asst. Director of Operations at TRANSPO. Mr.
Pearle discussed the construction of the new bus barn and offices currently underway for
TRANSPO adjacent to the city's new Ignition Park. Well underway, the facility will replace the
one on Northside Blvd. which is over 100 years old. The city intends to clear this site for future
residential development. During the Q & A session that followed Councilmember Tim Rouse
wondered if smaller more efficient buses could better serve the budget deficit and bus riders. Mr.
Pearle responded saying studies indicate smaller buses have proven to be less efficient in the
long run in that maintenance costs are higher and service life is shorter.
Oliver prorpf~et!)futur updates before adjourning the meeting at 6:15 p.m.
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,iD~s,`Chairperson
Committee