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The complete SolTrans Board Meeting Packet is available on SolTrans’ Website at www.soltransride.com
SOLTRANS BOARD OF DIRECTORS AGENDABoard of Directors
3:00 PM, Thursday, April 20, 2017Vallejo Council Chamber
555 Santa Clara St., Vallejo, CA 94590
Public Comment: Pursuant to the Brown Act, the public has an opportunity to speak on any matter on the agenda or, formatters not on the agenda, issues within the subject matter jurisdiction of the agency. Comments are limited to no more than 3minutes per speaker unless modified by the Board Chair, Gov’t Code § 54954.3(a). By law, no action may be taken on any itemraised during the public comment period (Agenda Item IV) although informational answers to questions may be given andmatters may be referred to staff for placement on a future agenda of the agency.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): This agenda is available upon request in alternative formats to persons with adisability, as required by the ADA of 1990 (42 U.S.C. §12132) and the Ralph M. Brown Act (Cal. Govt. Code §54954.2).Persons requesting a disability related modification or accommodation should contact Suzanne Fredriksen, Clerk of the Board,at (707) 736-6993 during regular business hours at least 72 hours prior to the time of the meeting.
Staff Reports: Staff reports are available for inspection at the SolTrans office, during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00p.m., Monday-Friday. You may also contact the Clerk of the Board via email at [email protected]. SupplementalReports: Any reports or other materials that are issued after the agenda has been distributed may be reviewed by contactingthe SolTrans Clerk of the Board and copies of any such supplemental materials will be available on the table at the entry to themeeting room.
Agenda Times: Times set forth on the agenda are estimates. Items may be heard before or after the times shown.
1. CLOSED SESSIONA. PERSONNEL MATTERS (GC § 549547): Public Employee Appointment. Position:SolTrans Executive Director (3:00 - 4:00 p.m.)
2. CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIENCEBob Sampayan, Chairperson, City of Vallejo (4:00 - 4:05 p.m.)
3. CONFIRM QUORUM/STATEMENT OF CONFLICTAn official who has a conflict must, prior to consideration of the decision; (1) publiclyidentify in detail the financial interest that causes the conflict; (2) recuse himself/herselffrom discussing and voting on the matter; (3) leave the room until after the decision hasbeen made. Cal. Gov’t Code § 87200.
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA1
The complete SolTrans Board Meeting Packet is available on SolTrans’ Website at www.soltransride.com
5. OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT(4:05 - 4:10 p.m.)
6. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT(4:10 - 4:15 p.m.)
6.A. Executive Director's reportSuggested Action: Informational (PRESENTER: Michael Scanlon, Interim Executive Director)Staff Report - Executive Directors Report April 2017.docxAttachment A - SolTrans Acronyms List.pdf
7. PROCLAMATIONS & PRESENTATIONS
8. CONSENT CALENDARRecommendation: Approve the following consent items in one motion. Note: Items underconsent calendar may be removed for separate discussion. (4:15 – 4:20 p.m.)
8.A. Meeting Minutes of February 16, 2017Suggested Action: Approve the meeting minutes of February 16, 2017. (PRESENTER:Suzanne Fredriksen, Board Clerk)Board Meeting Minutes of 02-16-17.pdf
8.B. Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Meeting Minutes of March 27, 2017Suggested Action: Approve the TAC meeting minutes of March 27, 2017. (PRESENTER:Suzanne Fredriksen, Board Clerk)TAC Minutes of 03-27-17.pdf
8.C. Public Advisory Committee (PAC) Meeting Minutes of March 27, 2017Suggested Action: Approve the PAC meeting minutes of March 27, 2017. (PRESENTER:Suzanne Fredriksen, Board Clerk)PAC Minutes of 03-27-17.pdf
8.D. Progress update on Fiscal Year (FY) 2016-17 SolTrans Performance Goals and Measures
Suggested Action: Receive the progress update on the FY 2016-17 SolTrans PerformanceGoals and Measures. (PRESENTER: Michael Abegg, Planning and Operations Manager)Staff Report - Progress Update on FY 16-17 Performance Goals.docxAttachment A - FY 16-17 SolTrans Performance Goals and Measures.docx
8.E. Approve SolTrans’ Application for Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP)Funds for Fiscal Year (FY) 2016-17 in the Amount of $155,480
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The complete SolTrans Board Meeting Packet is available on SolTrans’ Website at www.soltransride.com
Suggested Action: 1) Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A that authorizes theexecution of the LCTOP Project, and 2) Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment B thatauthorizes the LCTOP Certifications and Assurances. (PRESENTER: Dennis Ybarra, ProgramAnalyst II)Staff Report - Request LCTOP Funds.docxAttachment A - Resolution for Purchase of Electric Bus.docxAttachment B - Resolution for Execution of Certs and Assurances.docxAttachment C - LCTOP Certs and Assurances.pdf
8.F. Authorize Application for Federal Grants Suggested Action: Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A to authorize the filing offederal grant applications and the execution of the required certifications and assurances.(PRESENTER: Dennis Ybarra, Program Analyst II) Staff Report - Authorize Application for Federal Grants.docxAttachment A - Resolution for Federal Funds Application.docx
8.G. Approve Reduced Fare Program for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ParatransitCertified and Personal Care Attendants on Local Fixed Route SystemSuggested Action: Authorize Staff to extend the reduced fare pilot until October 31, 2017 toallow additional time for further analysis. Staff will return to the Board after the end of the fiscalyear with a recommendation as to whether the fare should be made permanent, adjusted ordiscontinued. (PRESENTER: Mandi Renshaw, Program Analyst I)Staff Report - ADA Reduced Fare for Personal Attendants.docx
8.H. Authorize the Application and Execution of Federal GrantsSuggested Action: Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A to submit the filing of federalgrant applications, annual certifications and assurances, and to execute grant and cooperativeagreements. (PRESENTER: Dennis Ybarra, Program Analyst II)Staff Report - Authorize Application & Execution of FTA Grants.docxAttachment A - Resolution to Authorize Filing of FTA Grant Applications.docx
REGULAR CALENDAR
9. ACTION ITEMS
9.A. Draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2017-18 SolTrans Performance MeasuresSuggested Action: 1) Provide feedback to Staff regarding the proposed changes to theagency’s mission statement, as shown on page 1 of Attachment A; and 2) Direct the InterimExecutive Director to finalize the FY 2017-18 Performance Goals and Measures, per feedbackfrom the SolTrans Board and Technical and Public Advisory Committees, and to present a finaldocument to the Board in May 2017 for approval. (PRESENTERS: Michael Scanlon, InterimExecutive Director; and Michael Abegg, Planning and Operations Manager) Staff Report - FY17-18 SolTrans Performance Measures.docx
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The complete SolTrans Board Meeting Packet is available on SolTrans’ Website at www.soltransride.com
Attachment A - Draft FY 2017-18 Performance Goals and Measures document.docxDraft FY 2017-18 SolTrans Performance Measures - PowerPoint Presentation.pdf
9.B. Budget Outlook Through Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27Suggested Action: Provide feedback on the Budget Outlook through FY 2026-27.(PRESENTER: Kristina Botsford, Finance & Administration Manager)Staff Report - Budget Outlook Through FY 2026-27.docxAttachment A - SolTrans 10-Year Financial Forecast.pdfBudget Outlook Through FY 2027 - PowerPoint Presentation.pdf
9.C. Fiscal Year (FY) 2017-18 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget
Suggested Action: Provide feedback on the FY 2017-18 Proposed Operating and CapitalBudget Assumptions and Framework (PRESENTER: Kristina Botsford, Finance andAdministration Manager)
Staff Report - FY 2017-18 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget.docxAttachment A - FY 2017-18 Proposed Operating Revenue and Expense by Mode(Proposed).pdfAttachment B - FY 2017-18 Proposed Capital Budget.pdfProposed Budget FY 2017-18 - PowerPoint Presentation.pdf
NON-ACTION/ INFORMATIONAL
10. DISCUSSION ITEMS
10.A. System Performance ReportSuggested Action: Informational. (PRESENTER: Dennis Ybarra, Program Analyst II)Staff Report - System Performance Report.docxAttachment A - System Performance Report.pdf
10.B. Public Outreach Report for April 2017Suggested Action: Informational. (PRESENTER: Mandi Renshaw, Program Analyst I)Staff Report - Public Outreach Report.docxMarketing and Outreach Update - PowerPoint Presentation.pdf
11. NON-DISCUSSION ITEMS
11.A. Federal and State Legislative UpdateSuggested Action: Informational. Staff Report - Federal and State Legislative Update.docxAttachment A -Shaw Yoder Antwih Report dated April 7, 2017.pdfAttachment B - Federal Legislative Report from Akin Gump dated April 11, 2017.pdf
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The complete SolTrans Board Meeting Packet is available on SolTrans’ Website at www.soltransride.com
11.B. April 2017 Construction Projects UpdateSuggested Action: Informational.Staff Report - Construction Projects Update.docxAttachment A - SolTrans Curtola Park and Ride Hub Memo dated April 12, 2017.pdf
12. STAFF BRIEFINGS
13. BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMMENTS
14. ADJOURNMENT
MEETING MINUTES
Meeting Minutes of April 20, 2017Suggested Action: Informational.Board Meeting Minutes of 04-20-17.pdf
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AGENDA ITEM: 6ABOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: MICHAEL SCANLON, INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SUBJECT: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
ACTION: INFORMATIONAL
The following provides an overview of more significant issues addressed by your Staff since the February 16, 2017 Board meeting:
FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION:
SolTrans Interim Executive Director and Executive Search: I began serving as the Interim Executive Director (ED) for SolTrans on April 12, 2017. Prior to that date, I did have the opportunity to work closely with Mona Babauta, former ED, and the Staff to ensure that the transition in executive leadership proceeded as smoothly as possible.
In addition, I continued to work closely with our executive search firm, KL2 Connects, to ensure that the posting for the permanent ED position occurred and next steps in the recruitment/screening process are well defined.
Community and External Affairs Officer (CEAO): Our former Executive Director, as one of her last acts before leaving SolTrans, offered this position to an individual who will start with the Agency on May 22, 2017.
FY 2017-18 Budget Development Process and Performance Goals Setting: Staff will be presenting the draft FY 2017-18 Operating and Capital Budgets, as well as the draft set of Performance Goals and Measures for next fiscal year under Agenda Items 9A and 9C. The10-Year Budget Outlook is also provided under Agenda Item 9B to give an overview of the Agency’s fiscal strength and ability to fund capital and operating priorities over the next decade.
Construction Projects: More information may be found under Agenda Item 11B.
OPERATIONS:
Promotional Service to Mare Island: This service has been extended to the end of May, and it is currently free to anyone wishing to ride the bus. Staff will be prepared to provide a comprehensive report and service options for Board consideration during the May Board meeting. Information on the route and schedule may be found on our website: http://www.soltransride.com/2016/12/mareislandpromo/
Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) System: Your Staff continues to refine the AVL System. More information on our MyRide mobile application may be found on our website:
http://www.soltransride.com/services/myride/7
http://www.soltransride.com/2016/11/new-soltrans-app-myride-combines-high-tech-with-low-fares/
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
Public Outreach: Staff continues to support, host and sponsor a number of community events in Benicia and Vallejo. Staff will be prepared to provide a report during the Board meeting on recent and upcoming community events.
SolTrans Committee Meetings: Meetings occurred with SolTrans’ Public Advisory Committee (PAC) and the SolTrans Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) on March 27th, and the Executive Management Committee (EMC) on April 5th to discuss the FY 2017-18 Budget, Work Plan and other projects/programs/efforts as required by SolTrans’ Bylaws.
Local, Regional, State and National Committee Meetings:
American Public Transportation Association (APTA): Your Staff will be attending APTA’s Bus and Paratransit Conference in May 2017. These conferences are valuable for the professional development of your Staff and for helping them become increasingly effective leaders within the SolTrans organization.
In addition, Staff (Kristina Botsford and your former ED, Mona Babauta) participated in APTA’s 2017 Legislative Conference in Washington and took the time to meet with transportation staff in Congressmen Thompson and Garamendi’s office, as well as with minority staff in the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee as part of MTC’s larger group.
North Bay Transportation Officials (NBTO) Meeting: On April 13, 2017, SolTrans will be hosting the next NBTO meeting in Vallejo, in order to share the work being done to incorporate 100% zero-emission electric buses (ZEBs) into our service environment.
Transit Consortium: Staff continues to participate in STA’s Transit Consortium meetings.
Attachment:A. List of Acronyms
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A MPO Metropolitan Planning Organization
ADA Americans with Disabilities Act MTC Metropolitan Transportation Commission
APC Automatic Passenger Counter N, O, & P
AVL Automated Vehicle Location System NTD National Transit Database
AVO Average Vehicle Occupancy OBAG One Bay Area Grant
B PAC Public Advisory Committee
BAFO Best and Final Offer PCC Paratransit Coordinating Council
BART Bay Area Rapid Transit PDT Project Development Team
C PDWG Project Development Working Group
CalEMA California Emergency Management Agency PNR Park & Ride
CALTRANS California Department of Transportation PPP (3P) Public Private Partnership
CAM Cost Allocation Model PTAC Partnership Technical Advisory
CARB California Air Resources Board Committee
CBA Collective Bargaining Agreement R & S
CCC Contra Costa County Connections RFP Request for Proposals
CHP California Highway Patrol
CMAQ Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality RM2 Regional Measure 2 Funds
Program RVH Revenue Vehicle Hours
COV City of Vallejo RVM Revenue Vehicle Miles
CTC California Transportation Commission SAFETEA-LU Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient
CTSGP California Transit Security Grant Program Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for
CTAF California Transit Assistance Fund Users
D SNCI Solano Napa Commuter Information
DAR Dial-a-Ride SR2T Safe Routes to Transit
DBE Disadvantaged Business Enterprise SRTP Short Range Transit Plan
DOT Department of Transportation STA Solano Transportation Authority
E & F STAF State Transit Assistance Fund
FAST Fairfield and Suisun Transit STIP State Transportation Improvement
FHWA Federal Highway Administration Program
FTA Federal Transit Administration STP Surface Transportation Program
FY Fiscal Year T
G, H, I, & J TAC Technical Advisory Committee
GFI Gen-fare Industries Farebox TCP Transit Capital Priorities
GP General Public (as in GP Dial-a-Ride) TDA Transportation Development Act
GPS Global Positioning System TIF Transportation Investment Fund
HOV High Occupancy Vehicle TIP Transportation Improvement Program
IFB Invitation for Bid TLC Transportation for Livable Communities
IPR Initial Project Report TMA Transportation Management Association
ITF Intercity Transit Funding TMP Transportation Management Plan
JARC Job Access Reverse Commute TMS Transportation Management System
JPA Joint Powers Authority U, V, W, Y
L & M UA Urbanized Area
MAP-21 Century Moving Ahead for Progress VMT Vehicle Miles Traveled
in the 21st Century VTC Vallejo Transit Center
MCI Motor Coach Industries WETA Water Emergency Transportation
MOU Memorandum of Understanding Authority
MOV Multiple Occupant Vehicle YTD Year to Date
SOLTRANS ACRONYMS LIST OF TRANSPORTATION TERMS
Last Updated: December 6, 2016 Solano County Transit
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AGENDA ITEM 8A
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT DRAFT Board Minutes for Meeting of
February 16, 2017
1. CLOSED SESSION
The special meeting was called to order at 4:30 p.m., which recessed into closed session to discuss
personnel matters.
Bernadette Curry, SolTrans Legal Counsel, reported that with a unanimous vote the Board of
Directors appointed Michael Scanlon as the SolTrans Interim Executive Director.
2. CALL TO ORDER
Chairperson Patterson called the regular meeting of the SolTrans Board to order at 5:30 p.m.
A quorum was confirmed by the Clerk of the Board, Suzanne Fredriksen. There was no Statement
of Conflict declared at this time.
MEMBERS
PRESENT:
Elizabeth Patterson, Mayor
City of Benicia, Chairperson
Bob Sampayan, Mayor City of Vallejo
Tom Campbell, Councilmember City of Benicia
Jess Malgapo, Councilmember City of Vallejo, Vice Chairperson
Jim Spering, Supervisor,
County of Solano
MTC Representative
Pete Sanchez, Mayor Ex-Officio – STA Representative
MEMBERS
ABSENT:
None
STAFF
PRESENT:
In Alphabetical Order by Last Name:
Michael Abegg SolTrans Planning & Operations Manager
Mona Babauta SolTrans Executive Director
Kristina Botsford SolTrans Finance & Administration
Manager
Patricia Carr SolTrans General Services Manager
Bernadette Curry SolTrans Legal Counsel
Suzanne Fredriksen SolTrans Board Clerk
Angela Jackson SolTrans Program Analyst I
Dennis Ybarra SolTrans Program Analyst II
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OTHERS
PRESENT:
In Alphabetical Order by Last Name:
Deanna Baillie BB&B Business Group
George Gong
Thalassa Highbrow National Express Transit
Philip Kamhi Solano Transportation Authority
Ryan Nicasio Vice President, PARS
Michael Scanlon
Daniel Smith SolTrans Public Advisory Committee
Brandon Thomson Solano Transportation Authority
Tiffany Turner National Express Transit
Kathy Walsh
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
On a motion by Director Sampayan and a second by Director Spering, the SolTrans JPA Board
unanimously approved the Agenda.
(5 Ayes)
5.
OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
Thalassa Highbrow expressed concern regarding personnel matters and union contract disputes
with the transit services operator, National Express Transit.
Bernadette Curry, SolTrans Legal Counsel, stated that only contractual concerns between
SolTrans and National Express would be within the jurisdiction of the SolTrans Board to address;
however, she stated that complaints regarding the transit services operator could be submitted to
her or directly to SolTrans Staff for investigation.
Donald Deen, Benicia resident and former Chairperson of the Planning Commission, requested
consideration for real time monitoring displays on bus stops in Benicia and throughout SolTrans’
service area.
Mona Babauta stated that Staff will revisit the implementation plan for real-time signage, noting
that Staff will work with City staff regarding the possible installation of a sign at City Park in
Benicia. She noted that the application, My Stop, will allow riders to access real time travel
information on their mobile devices.
6. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Mona Babauta stated that a fuel contract was awarded to SC Fuels, under a procurement conducted
by the County Connection in Concord, CA.
PROCLAMATIONS & PRESENTATIONS
7A. Swearing in of New Board Members
Bob Sampayan was sworn in as a new Board Member representing the City of Vallejo.
7B. Proclamation Presented to Mona Babauta, SolTrans First Executive Director Chairperson Patterson presented Mona Babauta with a Proclamation in recognition of her
dedication and efforts on behalf of SolTrans as the agency’s first Executive Director.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
On a motion by Director Spering and a second by Vice Chairperson Malgapo, the SolTrans JPA Board
unanimously approved Consent Calendar Items 8A through 8F. (5 Ayes)
8A. Meeting Minutes of December 15, 2016
Recommendation:
Approve the meeting minutes of December 15, 2016.
8B. Special Meeting Minutes of February 6, 2017
Recommendation:
Approve the special meeting minutes of February 6, 2017.
8C. Countywide Policies for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Complementary Paratransit
Recertification
Recommendations:
Adopt the Recertification Policy as shown in Attachment A.
8D. February 2017 Construction Projects Update and Authorize Increase in Project Budget for
Compressed Natural Gas Fueling Facility
Recommendation:
1) Receive the progress update on SolTrans’ major construction projects; and
2) Authorize an increase in the capital budget and the associated funding for the CNG Fueling
Facility in the amount of $177,800.
8E. Authorize Second Amendment to Black Talon Industries, Inc. Security Contract for
Implementation of Vehicle Patrols
Recommendation:
Authorize the Executive Director to execute a second amendment to the Black Talon Industries,
Inc. security agreement, subject to Legal Counsel approval as to form, in order to replace foot
patrol with vehicle patrol.
8F. Department of Energy Vehicle Technologies Deployment Funding Application
Recommendation:
1) Authorize the Board Chairperson to sign a Letter of Support for SolTrans’ grant
application for the DOE.
2) Authorize the minimum local match financial commitment of 50% project costs, to be
covered from TDA, existing service cost reductions, and any available State or Regional
grant funds.
REGULAR CALENDAR
9. ACTION ITEMS
9A. Selection of 2017 Officers of the SolTrans Board
Public Comments:
None presented.
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Board Comments:
Chairperson Patterson nominated Director Sampayan to the office of Chairperson, and Director
Campbell to the office of Vice Chairperson. Vice Chairperson Malgapo seconded the nominations.
Recommendation:
Select by majority vote the following officers of the SolTrans Board:
1) The Chairperson for 2017, commencing with the SolTrans Board meeting of April 20,
2017, from one of the Vallejo representatives, in accordance with the rotation process
established by the SolTrans Bylaws; and
2) The Vice Chairperson for 2017, commencing with the SolTrans Board meeting of April
20, 2017, from one of the remaining Directors from either Member City.
On a motion by Chairperson Patterson and a second by Vice Chairperson Malgapo, the SolTrans
JPA Board unanimously approved the nominations. (5 Ayes)
9B. Mid-Fiscal Year (FY) 2016-17 Budget Update
Kristina Botsford provided a budget update noting the agency could see some changes in the fuel
budget as SolTrans is now operating six new CNG buses, and operating expenses are under budget
due to a decrease in Paratransit ridership. She stated that farebox recovery remains strong.
Public Comments:
None presented.
Board Comments:
None presented.
Recommendation:
Receive the Mid-Fiscal Year (FY) 2016-17 Budget Update.
With no comments from the SolTrans Board, Chairperson Patterson closed the agenda item.
9C. Operating Reserve Update, Analysis of Fare Revenue and Overview of Fiscal Year (FY)
2017-18 Budget Process
Kristina Botsford stated that the 15% operating reserve is sufficient for SolTrans’ current needs,
noting that Staff will continue to assess whether a higher operating reserve is needed in the future.
She stated that SolTrans’ current fare structure appears to be sufficient to meet farebox recovery
and to cover expenses for the next two years. She also provided an overview of the budget
process, noting that the draft budget and work plan will be reviewed by the SolTrans Advisory
Committees prior to Board approval in May 2017.
Public Comments:
None presented.
Board Comments:
None presented.
Recommendation:
Receive report on Operating Reserves, Fare Revenue Analysis, and the FY 2017-18 Budget
Development Process.
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With no comments from the SolTrans Board, Chairperson Patterson closed the agenda item.
9D. Mare Island Promotional Service Status
Michael Abegg provided a presentation of the Mare Island Promotional Service schedule,
marketing program, ridership survey and analysis, as well as the fiscal impact of the
demonstration Route.
Public Comments:
None presented.
Board Comments:
Members of the SolTrans Board expressed the following comments and concerns for
consideration and discussion:
Concerns were expressed regarding the poor performance of the route, which is costly,
impacts farebox recovery, and has a negative impact upon the sustainability of the entire
transit system.
Concerns were expressed regarding discontinuing the route, without allowing a few more
months in order to analyze ridership trends.
Concern was expressed regarding advertising and marketing of the route, and it was noted
that some Mare Island residents complained they received little to no information about the
promotion.
Consideration was given to extending the promotional route for another three months, to
include extensive marketing and outreach, and to continue to work towards the goal of
establishing cost sharing partnerships with stakeholders to ensure sustainability.
Support was expressed regarding Staff’s recommendation to discontinue the promotional
service, noting that a route with poor performance of this magnitude should not be
subsidized. It was stated that the Board should adopt performance criteria for
pilot/demonstration routes, and if those criteria are not met on the Mare Island route, and
there is no cost sharing after three months, then the route should be discontinued.
Concerns were expressed regarding the current average cost of $220 per rider on the route
due to poor ridership and the lack of cost sharing. Clarification was requested regarding the
number of riders per month which would be needed in order to achieve the system average
cost of $6.50 per rider.
It was noted that the Guiding Principles which were established by the Board include
increasing ridership and reducing greenhouse gases; therefore, calculated risks should be
taken within specified performance criteria, in order to expand service.
Staff provided the following points of clarification:
Service was instated as requested; however, there is not enough activity on Mare Island at
this time to support traditional transit service. Staff suggested that the Board may want to
consider alternatives, such as providing special event services to/from Mare Island, and/or
providing commuter services by closely aligning service times with Touro University
schedules.
Staff performed extensive marketing to residents, including mailings to residents, as well
as personally visiting businesses to pass out materials. Clarification was also provided that
the Executive Director had face to face meetings over the past year with Touro, Lennar, as
well as other stakeholders in order to let them know that a partnership of contribution to
the service is necessary in order to ensure the route is sustainable.
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If the agency were to try to achieve the average cost of $6.50/rider, the route would need to
carry approximately 2,800 people per month.
After discussion and further consideration, the SolTrans JPA Board voted to amend the
recommendation as follows:
Recommendation:
1) Direct Staff to implement changes to the continue the Mare Island promotional service for 3
months, with the understanding that should a downward ridership trend ensue the route will be
discontinued;
2) Direct Staff to obtain cost-sharing from stakeholders to ensure that the 30% system wide
farebox recovery ratio is not compromised; and
3) Direct Staff to provide an update to the Board in April, and to provide a recommendation to
the Board in May, at the end of the 3 month extension period, which may include
discontinuance, modification, or extension as a demonstration route.
On a motion by Director Spering and a second by Director Campbell, the SolTrans JPA Board
unanimously approved the recommendation, as amended shown above in strikethrough bold
italics. (5 Ayes)
9E. Approve the Amendment and Authorize a Second Amendment to the PARS Retirement
Plan
Kristina Botsford provided an overview of the amendment to the PARS plan in order to address
employee contributions, as well as a second amendment to address part-time employees, re-hired
employees and the definition of a year of service. She introduced Ryan Nicasio, Vice President of
PARS.
Ryan Nicasio provided explanation regarding the development of the draft amendment verbiage.
Public Comments:
None presented.
Board Comments:
Members of the SolTrans Board expressed the following comments and concerns for
consideration and discussion:
Concerns were expressed regarding the fact that this item was not vetted by the Benefits
Subcommittee prior to being placed on the Board agenda.
Concern was expressed regarding the second amendment language which allows
employees to vest within four years and ten months of service, when the Board’s initial
intent was that employees should vest after five years of service.
Concern was expressed regarding transparency and it was stated that clarification should
have been presented within the Board report that this decision would specifically benefit
the Executive Director and even though the recommendation is within legal boundaries,
the lack of transparency made the recommendation suspect.
The Chairperson clarified that she spoke with the Executive Director prior to the item
being placed on the agenda, and confirmed that she is not vesting and therefore, there is no
direct benefit to the Executive Director.
Concern was expressed regarding Staff’s reference to CalPERS in the calculation of a 4
years and 10 months vesting criteria, and it was stated that the Board approved PARS and
not CalPERS when employee benefits were established.
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Legal Counsel requested clarification on the Board’s intent for the calculation for part-time
employee vesting, noting that the proposed amendment would allow an employee who
works part time to accrue years of service credit in excess to the proportion of hours
worked.
It was recommended that the language regarding part-time employees be deferred to a
future meeting, after comparison charts and industry standard guidance are presented to the
Benefits Subcommittee for review.
Concern was expressed regarding the possibility of disadvantaging the Executive Director,
if the item were deferred to a future meeting.
Legal Counsel clarified that under California law, there is no way to provide retroactive
retirement benefits to an employee. She noted that the Board may consider bifurcating the
recommendation into full-time versus part-time amendment language, if the Board wishes
to make a motion on the full-time language while deferring the part-time language to a
future meeting.
Staff provided the following points of clarification:
This was an administrative process to amend the plan, which began in July 2016 and
continued through several iterations in order to address the Board’s decision to establish a
process for part-time employees. The timing of the amendments is unfortunate due to the
turn of events, however the Board didn’t meet in January after the draft second amendment
was finalized.
Staff consulted with PARS and confirmed that 4 years and 10 months is the industry
standard for vesting in retirement. The vesting period was further derived from the
direction from the Board, that if an employee worked at least 90% of full-time hours they
would be eligible for full-time benefits.
Mona Babauta stated that when she gave her resignation, she was aware that she would not
vest with PARS, as it currently stands, at the time her employment terminated.
Staff clarified that the Executive Director would vest under the amended language;
however Staff wanted to craft the amendment language without being influenced by how
any individual employee could benefit.
After discussion and further consideration, the SolTrans JPA Board voted to amend the
recommendation as follows:
Recommendation:
1) Approve the PARS Retirement Plan Amendment executed by the Executive Director on
May 2, 2014 (Attachment A).
2) Authorize the Executive Director to execute a second Plan Amendment to include the
verbiage regarding full time employee benefits, with legal counsel approval as to form, as
shown in Attachment B; while deferring discussion and approval of the verbiage which
clarifies how part-time employees accrue service credit to a future meeting;
3) Direct Staff to bring the amendment verbiage which clarifies how part-time employees
accrue service credit to the Benefits Subcommittee for review prior to bringing a
recommendation back to the full Board at a future meeting.
On a motion by Sampayan and a second by Malgapo, the SolTrans JPA Board on a 4-1 vote
approved the recommendation. (4 Ayes, 1 No (Spering))
NON-ACTION/ INFORMATIONAL
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10. DISCUSSION ITEMS
10A. Solano County/Solano Transportation Authority Express Corridor Study Update and
Implementation Plan Review
Michael Abegg provided a presentation which included a brief history of the Solano County/
Solano Transportation Authority Express Corridor Study, the current SolanoExpress network, the
Phase I alternative recommendation, and the implementation plan.
Public Comments:
Philip Kamhi, with Solano Transportation Authority (STA), commended Staff for their work on
the plan and he noted that STA staff would be happy to provide a more in-depth presentation to
the Board at a future meeting, if desired.
Members of the SolTrans Board expressed the following comments and concerns for
consideration and discussion:
It was requested that a presentation from STA staff be placed at the beginning of the April
Board agenda.
A request was made for information to be provided back to the Board regarding
alternative(s) to Diablo Community College, as well as information regarding why or why
not the Pleasant Hill stop could be changed.
Recommendation:
Informational.
10B. System Performance Report
Dennis Ybarra provided a presentation of SolTrans’ farebox recovery ratio, monthly ridership
statistics, as well as a year-to-year ridership comparison
Public Comments:
None presented.
Board Member Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
10C. Comprehensive SolTrans Curtola Park and Ride Hub Report
Public Comments:
None presented.
Board Member Comments:
None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
18
10D. Public Outreach Report for February 2017
Michael Abegg provided highlights of the agency’s marketing and outreach efforts in 2016, and
she also provided an overview of outreach efforts scheduled from February through April 2017.
Public Comments:
None presented.
Board Member Comments:
None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
10E. State of the Agency Report
Mona Babauta provided an update on the state of the agency including organizational strength,
finance and administration, general services infrastructure, planning and operations, community
and external affairs, as well as future considerations for the next SolTrans Executive Director.
Public Comments:
None presented.
Board Member Comments:
Members of the Board expressed appreciation to Mona Babauta for leaving the agency in a strong
position and for her efforts in promoting the mobility needs of the community.
Recommendation:
Informational.
11. NON- DISCUSSION ITEMS
12. STAFF BRIEFINGS
13. BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMMENTS
14. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the SolTrans Board is
tentatively scheduled for Thursday, April 20, 2017, 4:00 p.m., in the Vallejo Council
Chamber, located at 555 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo.
Attested by:
02/17/2017
Suzanne Fredriksen Date
Clerk of the Board
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20
AGENDA ITEM 8B
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT Draft Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Meeting Minutes of
March 27, 2017
1. CALL TO ORDER Acting Chairperson, Graham Wadsworth called the meeting of the TAC to order at 2:00 p.m. A
quorum was confirmed by Suzanne Fredriksen, Board Clerk.
TAC MEMBERS PRESENT: Graham Wadsworth City of Benicia
Judy Leaks Solano Transportation Authority
Brandon Thomson Solano Transportation Authority
Michael Abegg SolTrans
Kristina Botsford SolTrans
Jason Ackley City of Vallejo, Alternate
TAC MEMBERS ABSENT: Abby Urrutia City of Benicia
Ron Millard City of Vallejo
Jill Mercurio City of Vallejo
SOLTRANS STAFF PRESENT: (In Alphabetical Order by Last Name)
Patricia Carr SolTrans
Suzanne Fredriksen SolTrans
OTHERS PRESENT:
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
On a motion by Judy Leaks and a second by Michael Abegg, the SolTrans TAC unanimously
approved the agenda. (6 Ayes, 2 Absent)
4. OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
None presented.
ACTION ITEMS
5A. Fiscal Year (FY) 2017-18 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget
Kristina Botford provided a presentation on the proposed FY 2017-18 Operating and Capital
Budget, including the budget framework, a comparison between the proposed budget and the
current year budget, a proposed increase in the transit service contract, employee salaries and
benefits considerations, estimated fuel costs, and a revenue comparison between FY 2016-17
and FY 2017-18. She also provided an overview of FY 2016-17 capital projects to be carried
over to FY 2017-18, new capital requests and proposed capital funding for new requests.
Public Comments:
None presented.
21
AGENDA ITEM 8B
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
TAC Member Comments:
The following comments and feedback were provided by the TAC Members:
A request was made for a cost comparison between running diesel buses versus CNG
and electric buses.
Staff provided the following points of clarification:
Staff will bring a fuel cost analysis back to the committee once that data is available.
Recommendation:
Approve/provide feedback on the FY 2017-18 Proposed Operating and
Capital Budget Assumptions and Framework.
On a motion by Judy Leaks and a second by Michael Abegg, the SolTrans TAC unanimously
approved the recommendation. (6 Ayes, 2 Absent)
5B. Budget Outlook Through Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27
Kristina Botsford provided a presentation of the budget outlook through FY 2026-27,
including the budget overview elements, the projected outcomes for operating expenses, the
projected outcomes for operations revenue, the projected outcomes for capital expenditures,
issues of concerns as well as potential opportunities.
Public Comments:
None presented.
TAC Member Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Provide feedback on the Budget Outlook through FY 2026-27.
With no comments or feedback from the SolTrans TAC, Graham Wadsworth closed the
agenda item.
5.C. Draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2017-18 SolTrans Performance Measures
Michael Abegg provided highlights of the draft FY 2017-18 SolTrans Performance Measures,
including proposed changes to the mission statement and revisions to the format of the
document.
Public Comments:
None presented.
TAC Member Comments: The following comments and feedback were provided by the TAC Members:
Clarification was requested regarding Goal 1, Objective D, Strategy ii, Activity 2:
Work with Solano Transportation Authority (STA) to advance Express Corridor Plan
implementation, and whether this goal was discussed with STA.
A suggestion was made for Staff to consider smart controllers when replacing
sprinklers with drip systems for landscapes.
Requests were made for Staff to spell out the words for acronyms the first time they are
used within the document.
22
AGENDA ITEM 8B
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
A request was made for Staff to consider a facility maintenance plan system like
NextGen or FacilityDude, which can potentially save time and resources.
A suggestion was made for Staff to consider assessing other benchmarks with peer
agencies in addition to the current benchmark of farebox recovery.
Staff provided the following points of clarification:
Staff is coordinating with STA on their implementation of the Express Corridor Plan
implementation. Agency resources will need to be devoted to this, however the
standard and milestone will be subject to the STA’s timeline.
Recommendation:
Recommend to the Board the following actions:
1) Provide feedback on the Draft FY 2017-18 Performance Goals and Measures and direct
staff to forward the feedback received to the Board of Directors for their consideration.
2) Forward a recommendation to the Board of Directors to approve the Draft FY 2017-18
Performance Goals and Measures.
3) Provide feedback on the new, proposed Mission Statement and forward a
recommendation to the Board of Directors for action.
On a motion by Judy Leaks and a second by Jason Ackley, the SolTrans TAC unanimously
approved the recommendation. (6 Ayes, 2 Absent)
NON-ACTION/ INFORMATIONAL
DISCUSSION ITEMS
6A. Mare Island Demonstration Service Status
Michael Abegg provided an update on the Mare Island Demonstration Service, including
various options to consider in terms of potential funding and alternative service models.
Public Comments:
None presented.
TAC Member Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
6B. Public Outreach Report for February 2017 Michael Abegg provided highlights of recent public outreach efforts.
Public Comments:
None presented.
TAC Member Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
23
AGENDA ITEM 8B
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
6C. April 2017 Service Changes and Demonstration Service Updates Michael Abegg provided highlights of upcoming service changes.
Public Comments:
None presented.
TAC Member Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
NON-DISCUSSION ITEMS
8. STAFF BRIEFINGS
9. ADJOURNMENT
The regular meeting of the TAC was adjourned at 3:30 p.m. The SolTrans TAC meets
quarterly and on an as-needed basis. The next TAC meeting is to be announced.
Attested by:
03/27/2017
Suzanne Fredriksen Date
Board Clerk
24
AGENDA ITEM 8C
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT Draft Public Advisory Committee (PAC) Meeting Minutes of
March 27, 2017
1. CALL TO ORDER Acting Chair, Richard Burnett, attempted to call the meeting of the PAC to order at 5:15 p.m.
and it was determined that there was not a quorum present. While waiting for the final member
to arrive, those members present proceeded with an informational review of non-action items
until the last PAC member arrived.
A quorum was confirmed at 5:32 p.m. by Suzanne Fredriksen, Board Clerk, and the meeting
was officially called to order.
PAC MEMBERS PRESENT: James Cook City of Benicia
Trevor Macenski City of Benicia
Daniel Smith City of Benicia
(arrived late at 5:32 p.m.) Tom Bartee Solano Transportation Authority
Richard Burnett City of Vallejo
PAC MEMBERS ABSENT: Cori Labrado Solano Transportation Authority
SOLTRANS STAFF PRESENT: (In Alphabetical Order by Last Name)
Michael Abegg SolTrans
Mona Babauta
Kristina Botsford
SolTrans
SolTrans
Patricia Carr SolTrans
Suzanne Fredriksen SolTrans
OTHERS PRESENT:
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
4. OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
Daniel Smith reported that he attended the February SolTrans Board meeting and he provided
highlights of the Board’s discussion regarding Agenda Item 9E, Approve the Amendment and
Authorize a Second Amendment to the PARS Plan.
Staff noted that more information may be found regarding this item in the staff report
contained in the February 16, 2017 Board packet on www.soltransride.com. It was also noted
that a summary of the Board’s discussion and final motion will be available after the Board
approves the draft meeting minutes at the April 20th
meeting.
ACTION ITEMS
5A. Chairperson Selection
25
AGENDA ITEM 8C
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Public Comments:
None presented.
PAC Member Comments:
It was discussed that the current Vice Chairperson, Tom Bartee should be considered to serve
in the role of Chairperson; therefore, a new Vice Chairperson would also need to be appointed.
After discussion and consideration, the SolTrans PAC amended the recommendation as
follows:
Recommendation:
Select by majority vote a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson to fill the vacancy vacancies,
commencing with the next quarterly Public Advisory Committee meeting and each with a
term expiration of April 12, 2018.
Richard Burnett nominated Tom Bartee to the office of Chairperson and Trevor Macenski to
the office of Vice Chairperson, and James Cook seconded the nominations.
On a motion by Richard Burnett and a second by James Cook, the SolTrans PAC unanimously
approved the nominations and the recommendation, as amended shown above in strikethrough
bold italics. (5 Ayes, 1 Absent)
5B. Draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2017-18 SolTrans Performance Measures
Michael Abegg provided an overview of the draft FY 2017-18 SolTrans Performance
Measures, including proposed changes to the mission statement and revisions to the format of
the document.
Public Comments:
None presented.
PAC Member Comments: The following comments and feedback were provided by the PAC Members:
A concern was expressed that as of last week, Assembly Bill (AB) 1 and Senate Bill
(SB) 1 reflected little to no money for public transit, and clarification was requested
regarding Staff’s lobbying efforts.
A reference was made to the strategy regarding bus stop amenities, and concern was
expressed that some bus stops are being occupied by people who are not riding the bus.
A suggestion was made for Staff to consider partnering with the cities in assessing bus
stops, for instance to enlist Homeowner’s Associations (HOA) to take pictures and/or
fill out a checklist of bus stop improvements that they wish to see.
Staff provided the following points of clarification:
The Governor is holding a press conference tomorrow, 3/28, to discuss the possibility
for amended language in a new bill to include possible funding for public transit. Staff
has and will continue to lobby for funding for public transit.
Staff has been working the Police Department to enforce the “no camping” ordinance
with regards to the bus stops.
Staff will consider various opportunities to partner with the cities, the county as well as
with Caltrans.
26
AGENDA ITEM 8C
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Recommendation:
1) Provide feedback on the Draft FY 2017-18 Performance Goals and Measures and direct
staff to forward the feedback received to the Board of Directors for their consideration.
2) Forward a recommendation to the Board of Directors to approve the Draft FY 2017-18
Performance Goals and Measures.
3) Provide feedback on the new, proposed Mission Statement and forward a
recommendation to the Board of Directors for action.
On a motion by Trevor Macenski and a second by Daniel Smith, the SolTrans PAC
unanimously approved the recommendation. (5 Ayes, 1 Absent)
NON-ACTION/ INFORMATIONAL
6. DISCUSSION ITEMS
6A. Mare Island Promotional Service Status Michael Abegg provided an update on the Mare Island Promotional Service, noting the service
will continue to operate through the end of May 2017 and that Staff is currently exploring
various options for modified service as well as possible funding options for the future.
Public Comments:
None presented.
PAC Member Comments: The following comments and feedback were provided by the PAC Members:
A request was made for Staff to consider speaking with Lennar about their
development schedule, and to determine whether they may be putting sidewalks, curbs
and cutters to make the route more feasible.
At this time, Tom Bartee arrived at the meeting (5:32 p.m.).
Staff provided the following points of clarification:
It is apparent that as continued work is done on the roads, sidewalks and infrastructure
that service to/from Mare Island will become more feasible; and therefore, Staff will
continue to work with the stakeholders in the future to assess various possibilities.
Recommendation:
Informational.
6B. Fiscal Year (FY) 2017-18 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget Kristina Botsford provided a presentation on the proposed FY 2017-18 Operating and Capital
Budget, including the budget framework, a comparison between the proposed budget and the
current year budget, a proposed increase in the transit service contract, employee salaries and
benefits considerations, estimated fuel costs, and a revenue comparison between FY 2016-17
and FY 2017-18. She also provided an overview of FY 2016-17 capital projects to be carried
over to FY 2017-18, new capital requests and proposed capital funding for new requests.
Public Comments:
None presented.
27
AGENDA ITEM 8C
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
PAC Member Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
6C. Budget Outlook Through Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 Kristina Botsford provided a presentation of the budget outlook through FY 2026-27,
including the budget overview elements, the projected outcomes for operating expenses, the
projected outcomes for operations revenue, the projected outcomes for capital expenditures,
issues of concerns as well as potential opportunities.
Public Comments:
None presented.
PAC Member Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
6D. Public Outreach Update
Public Comments:
None presented.
PAC Member Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Informational.
6E. April 2017 Service Changes and Demonstration Service Updates Michael Abegg provided an update on service changes which will go into effect on April 2,
2017, as well as information on upcoming service change plans.
Public Comments:
None presented.
PAC Member Comments: The following comments and feedback were provided by the PAC Members:
A comment was made that Benicia residents seem most likely to travel to Six Flags
around mid-morning and to travel back to Benicia between 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
A request was made for Staff to consider passing a questionnaire or survey to the high
school and middle school students regarding where they would like to take the bus
during the summer. It was also noted that the school district provides a good
community service by notifying parents of various things going on within the
community, and schools also can project updates to students over the PA system if
Staff ever wanted to take advantage of that service.
28
AGENDA ITEM 8C
BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Staff was commended for the attention and resources that are being committed to
routes that connect with Bart, and for the improvements being made to increase rider
satisfaction.
Recommendation:
Informational.
7. NON-DISCUSSION ITEMS
8. STAFF BRIEFINGS
9. ADJOURNMENT
The regular meeting of the PAC was adjourned at 6:45 p.m. The SolTrans PAC meets
quarterly and on an as-needed basis. The next PAC meeting is to be announced.
Attested by:
03/28/2017
Suzanne Fredriksen Date
Board Clerk
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AGENDA ITEM: 8DBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: MICHAEL ABEGG, PLANNING & OPERATIONS MANAGER
SUBJECT: PROGRESS UPDATE ON FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2016-17 SOLTRANS PERFORMANCE GOALS AND MEASURES
ACTION: MOTION
ISSUE:
This report describes progress made on the Agency’s FY 2016-17 Performance Goals and Measures through March 2017.
DISCUSSION:
On May 19, 2016, the Board approved SolTrans’ Performance Goals and Measures for FY 2016-17. Attachment A of this report identifies the specific progress made since the previous update was presented to the Board in October 2016. The chart below presents a general summary of this progress.
Goals/Objectives/ Strategies
Total # Goals/ Objectives/ Strategies
# Goals/ Objectives/ Strategies in which progress was made
% of Total Goals/ Objectives/ Strategies in
which progress was made
Goals 4 4 100%
Objectives 17 16 94%
Strategies 59 49 83%
Performance Measures 66 55 88%
Some of the notable capital and systems improvement projects which have been completed, orhave met significant milestones since the last update to the Board, are as follows:
Full implementation of the Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL) System has been reached. Staff continues to train on reporting and management elements. All public information elements, including signage, website integration, and mobile apps have been deployed. Tuning of APC (Automated Passenger Counting) system and individual route details continues.
SolTrans took delivery in December 2016 of six MCI commuter coaches fueled by compressed natural gas. An additional four coaches were ordered for late CY2017 delivery. This will bring replacement of the existing, aged diesel commuter fleet to 65%. 31
The first two zero-emission, all-electric powered local transit buses were delivered in March, 2017 and will enter regular service by the end of April.
Construction has commenced on the CNG fueling site at 1850 Broadway. In addition, facility improvements to accommodate fueling of the first two electric buses were completed in March.
Demonstration service for Mare Island and revised Route 20 (Benicia-Vallejo) were implemented to attract new transit markets.
MyRide for Paratransit deployed. This system provides real-time updates to customers on the status of paratransit trips and will be extended to Benicia dial-a-ride in coming months.
Financial reports and requirements continue to be met with high standards of performance and quality.
With the growth in staff size, managers have been able to invest more time in regional committees and developing regional partnerships, including Emergency Planning, Clipper Operations and Clipper-2 development, coordinated planning with Napa and Fairfield as well as ongoing participating with STA, and ad hoc work with finance managers from partner agencies.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Non-financial item; no fiscal impact.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 4 – Stabilize and strengthen the SolTrans organization and team of staff for ensuring the long-term viability of the transit system; Objective A – Establish clear organizational structure/staff roles and strengthen staff expertise and sense of ownership; Strategy ii. -Implement Automatic Vehicle Location and Mobile Data Terminal technology in a way that is fully integrated with Trapeze scheduling environment to improve on-time-performance results.
RECOMMENDATION:
Receive the progress update on the FY 2016-17 SolTrans Performance Goals and Measures.
Attachment:
A. Final FY 2016-17 SolTrans Performance Goals and Measures
32
Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
Page 1 of 16
FY 2016-17 Solano County Transit (SolTrans) Performance Goals and MeasuresThe intent of the Performance Goals and Objectives for SolTrans is to guide Staff’s decision-making processes and to organize the Agency’s activities in a meaningful manner, in order to effect positive change and improve performance, as desired by the Board of Directors for carrying-out SolTrans’ mission: “We deliver safe, reliable and efficient transportation services that effectively link people, jobs, and communities.”
The following goals provide a framework for pursuing our mission: 1) Maximize safety, reliability and efficiency of transit operations; 2) Optimize fiscal health and long-term sustainability; 3) Enhance customer satisfaction and build community support for public transportation;and 4) Develop an efficient and effective team of employees for ensuring long-term organizational viability. In order to achieve these goals, objectives and strategies are outlined in the table below. Performance on each is then tracked according to progress made on a specified standard or milestone or pure accomplishment of a specific strategy or activity. Also, in some cases, performance in a particular area is ongoing, and in this case, Staff will keep the board informed on notable progress made.
GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
1. GOAL: Maximize safety, reliability and efficiency of transit operations.
A. OBJECTIVE: Implement technologies and infrastructure/equipment improvements for enhancing and monitoring system performance.
i. Strategy: Fully implement features of the Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) System.
Activity 1:
To enhance system performance monitoring and reporting, develop and implement systems and/or software for meeting internal, operational needs, as well as federal, state and local reporting requirements.
% Completion by December 2017.
APC Certification continues.Reporting from CAD/AVL System has begun to replace other sources. New CRM deployed.
33
Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
Page 2 of 16
GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 2:Complete implementation of signage and web-based applications and/or systems for providing real-time travel information for customers and Wi-Fi access on buses.
% Completion by December 2017. 80% completed. MyRideoperating, signage completed. Wifi operating. Transitioning to operations.
ii. Strategy: Fully complete the SolTrans Curtola Park and Ride Hub.
Activity 1:
Complete outstanding tasks and punch list items. (This includes: 1) Meeting City/PG&E requirements especially related to electrical designs and meter placements; leasing office/vendor space; installation of real-time signs in the transit center, and; additional items as needed for maintaining a good, working relationship with local, regional and other partners.)
% Completion by June 2017.
Electrical system resolution reached. Real-time signs operating. Agreement on median right-of-way maintenance being developed.
iii.
Strategy: Procure alternative fueled MCI coaches for Solano Express commuter service. (16-17 buses in the existing fleet need to be replaced over a 3-year period.)
35% Completion of procurement process by June 2018.
6 Buses delivered fall 2016. 4more to be ordered 12/16 for fall 2017 delivery
iv.
Strategy: Pursue zero emission electric and/or near zero emission bus procurements as funds are available, as based on the Alternative Fuel and Zero Emission Vehicle Transition Plan or “Road Map” presented to the Board of Directors in February 2016.
2 Grants pursued on an annual basis.
2 ZEBs delivered March 2017. One additional to be ordered by June 2017.
Activity 1:Conduct routine reviews of the “Road Map” and monitortrends in technology development. (Requested by Chair Patterson during February 2016 Board meeting.)
Ongoing. Provide regular reports to the Board.
Road Map updates scheduled twice annually.
v. Strategy: Complete Compressed Natural Gas Infrastructure. % Completion by March 2017
Completion delayed until Summer 2017. Construction began in March, 2017.
34
Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
Page 3 of 16
GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
vi.
Strategy: Improve bus stops with enhanced passenger amenities, as well as safety and accessibility features. (Note: Due to limited resources, a policy for making investment decisions on bus stop amenities will need to be adopted by the Board.)
Ongoing. Performance in this area is based on resources and investment criteria for improvements.
MyRide labeling completed. Additional sign posters developed and installed at key stops in connection with each schedule change.
vii.
Strategy: Develop a Mobility on Demand (MOD) concept and analyze the feasibility of integrating on-demand ride services with existing transit services to enhance customer convenience and operational efficiency. (Available funding will also be considered.)
% Completion by June 2017.
Two grant applications denied. Staff refining concept and resuming search for funding opportunities.
B. OBJECTIVE: Establish process for developing and implementing service plans/enhancements for improving system performance and reliability.
i.Strategy: Conduct at least quarterly meetings between Planning & Operations Staff and bus operations Staff to gather feedback on operational and safety issues in the field.
Activity 1: Accomplish quarterly meetings (every 3 months). Ongoing Ongoing
ii.Strategy: Conduct weekly or bi-weekly management meetings with NEXT to ensure continuous communication about service, customer feedback, and planning needs.
Ongoing Ongoing
iii. Strategy: Continuously document system strengths/ weaknesses and outlinesolutions for improvement. Ongoing Ongoing
35
Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
Page 4 of 16
GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
iv.
Strategy: Maintain our emergency preparedness and service plan for responding effectively to a local or regional catastrophe, natural disaster, or other emergency. Conduct regular drills to document strengths, weaknesses, and necessary plan adjustments.
Complete an annual review of our emergency preparedness procedures and track number of drills and training opportunities for Staff.
Staff participated in MTC’s annual regional Table Top Exercise. Developing internal Safety and Emergency Preparedness Plan.
C. OBJECTIVE: Increase SolTrans’ fixed route system performance, including ridership.
i.
Strategy: Explore opportunities for expanding service to unserved or underserved areas while being mindful of farebox recovery standards, Agency budget constraints, and opportunities for maintaining or attracting new funding.
Activity 1:
Improve service and transit accessibility in disadvantaged communities in the SolTrans service area for increasing:a) convenient access to critical needs (i.e., hospitals, schools, grocery stores, pharmacies and social services), and b) opportunities for attracting/ maintaining funding (i.e., Cap and Trade funding).
% Completion by June 2017. Route 20 changes implemented November 2016; monitoring.
Activity 2:Consider implementing transit service on Mare Island, as based on planning efforts to-date and feedback from the Board of Directors and stakeholders.
% Completion by June 2017.
Demonstration service initiated December 1, 2016. Funding agreements still required for long-term viability.
Activity 3:
As based on feedback from the Board of Directors, consider improvements to or expansion of Route 20 orother programs that serve as lifeline connections for the City of Benicia and contribute to growing ridership.
% Completion by December 2016.
Route 20 changes implemented and being monitored.
Slate of service expansion projects provided as part of 2017-18 budget review. 36
Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
Page 5 of 16
GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
ii. Strategy: Implement strategies for improving customer satisfaction and community partnerships (see Goal #3 of this document below). See performance measurements under Goal #3.
iii.
Strategy: Consider increased regional coordination efforts to: a) improve customer convenience and seamlessness of travel within Solano and Napa Counties and throughout the Bay Area, b) achieve greater operational efficiencies, and c) attract higher levels of funding.
Ongoing Ongoing. Executed fare agreement with Napa Vine.
D. OBJECTIVE: Improve system performance and efficiency of demand response services.
i.Strategy: Continue to identify, develop and implement service policies/practices that increase system efficiency and quality of service for all users.
Activity 1:
Coordinate with STA on improvements to the Intercity taxi program and explore improvements to the local taxi scrip program for added operational efficiency and customer ease of use.
% Completion by June 2017. Monitoring for first year of revised Intercity scrip program.
Activity 2:
Consider a Mobility on Demand (MOD) model for delivering demand response trips in a more convenient and efficient manner. (See Goal 1, Objective A, Strategy vii.)
% Completion by June 2017.
Grant applications submitted but not funded. Staff refining service model and seeking other funding sources.
ii. Strategy: Implement a customer “call-back” system for the demand response programs (paratransit and dial-a-ride). % Complete by June 2017.
MyRide for Paratransit deployed for all customers in March, 2017.
37
Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
Page 6 of 16
GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
iii. Strategy: Work with ADA Eligibility Contractor, STA, and Solano transit agencies to monitor the effectiveness of the in-person evaluation program. Ongoing Monitoring
iv.Strategy: Continue to support the countywide Mobility Management Program and other services for increasing mobility and regional connectivity for seniors, youth and low-income persons.
Ongoing Monitoring
v.Strategy: Monitor “low-fare” programs for ADA Certified Riders and Personal Care Attendants on fixed route and the Benicia Dial-a-Ride systems to gauge impact on demand management and mode choice.
Ongoing
Monitoring. Rides using ADA Certified Rider fare on fixed-route now outnumber paratransit rides.
38
Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
Page 7 of 16
GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
2. GOAL: Optimize fiscal health and long-term sustainability.
A. OBJECTIVE: Obtain federal, state, and regional grants for SolTrans operations and capital projects.
i. Strategy: Compete for grants that support sustainability of the current system and/or facilitate increased effectiveness/ridership growth.
Obtain at least one grant each fiscal year that grows the reserve or funds service enhancements.
BAAQMD (Bay Air Quality Management District) $48K
B. OBJECTIVE: Ensure compliance with federal, state and local fiscal regulations/mandates.
i. Strategy: Track/establish/improve fiscal policies, procedures and internal controls, as needed. Ongoing Contract database and
procedures developed
ii.Strategy: Successfully close-out performance, maintenance and/or operations audits required by state/federal law (i.e., CHP inspections, TDA performance audit, etc.)
Close-out audits on-time and provide Board report on status of audit reports by June of each fiscal year, as appropriate.
Ongoing
iii.
Strategy: Successfully close annual accounting records to ensure independent auditors can issue our audited financial statements timely, thereby allowing us to file required reports to various agencies without extensions.
Obtain Audited Financial Statements by December of each year (for prior FY) and provide to Board for acceptance.
Annual Audit Week of 9/26
Accounting records closed on time
iv.Strategy: Successfully close out annual National Transit Database (NTD) reports, which impact annual federal allocations, and meet all federal, state, regional and local reporting requirements for continued eligibility for grants.
Submit all reports, as required by the FTA and NTD, on-time. (Initial Annual NTD Report due October31st of each year.)
v. Strategy: Successfully close out the FTA Triennial Review Process. (Last Review: May 28-29, 2015)
Goal is zero (0) findings. Close-out process on-time.
All findings from 7/1/11 6-30-14 are cleared
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Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
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C. OBJECTIVE: Strategically align financial resources with operational and capital priorities.
i. Strategy: Develop operations and capital priorities and program federal, state, regional and local funds according to Board-approved priorities.
Provide updates to the Board as financial efforts are conducted.
Fleet updates provided to Board twice annually
ii. Strategy: Complete the annual Operating and Capital Budget, Mid-Year Budget Adjustment and regular budget updates.
Provide reports to the board per the Budget Policy.
Current updates provided to Board and draft 2017-18 budget prepared for April review.
iii. Strategy: Complete annual 10-year Budget Outlook, per SolTrans’ Budget Policy. Complete by April Board meeting. Completed for April 2017
review
iv. Strategy: Conduct fare analyses per the Fare Policy adopted by the Board in December 2015. Complete per the policy.
Fare analysis conducted as part of 2017-18 budget preparation for Board review in April 2017.
v. Strategy: Complete transfer of assets and resources from the City of Vallejo and City of Benicia to SolTrans, as appropriate.
% Completion of asset transfers by December 2016.
Continue to work on transfer of remaining assets (e.g. 1850 Broadway land, 311 Sacramento Street)
D. OBJECTIVE: Influence and shape funding and/or legislative policies to strengthen fiscal health.
i. Strategy: Work with STA to reflect SolTrans’ operations and capital needs in transportation policies/documents at the county level.
Ongoing. Provide regular reports to the Board
Providing regular reports to the Board.
ii.Strategy: Work with state and federal associations or lobbyists, and/or federal/state delegations to influence legislation/funding allocations (i.e. STAF protection).
Ongoing. Provide regular reports to the Board.
Ongoing. Reports provided at each Board meeting
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Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
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iii.Strategy: Actively participate in shaping regional, state and federal legislation and regulations through regular communication with policymakers on SolTrans’ funding and operational needs.
Meet with legislative Staff and key officials at the state and federal levels at least once a year to communicate SolTrans’ policy and regulatory needs/interests.
Executive Director and Finance & Administration Manger attend APTA Legislative Conference in March.
iv.Strategy: Actively track federal, state, and regional legislation and policies, and take public positions as appropriate and communicate such to legislative leaders/policymakers.
Ongoing. Provide regular reports to the Board.
Providing regular reports to the Board.
E. OBJECTIVE: Maintain positive cash flow and an operating/capital reserve.
i. Strategy: Maximize SolTrans’ TDA Article IV fund balance for future capital/operational priorities (i.e., state of good repair).
Pursue grant funds or other strategies for using TDA as a last resort for funding operational/ capital needs. Provide regular reports to the Board.
Ongoing. FY15-16 savings added $700K TDA funds to reserve.
ii. Strategy: Drawdown grant funds and request reimbursements in a timely manner.
Seek reimbursements for expenses over $100,000 within 2 weeks of incurring the expense.
Ongoing
F. OBJECTIVE: Establish effective financial, administrative and budget management practices to ensure viability.
i. Strategy: Create overlapping, in-house expertise in financial management and grants administration.
Ongoing. Executive Director to track accomplishment of annual tasks in a timely manner.
Ongoing
ii
Strategy: Establish a capital asset management and tracking system to minimize operational and maintenance costs/losses, minimize liability exposure, maximize return on investment, and ensure compliance with state or federal grant or asset management requirements.
% Completion by June 2017.
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Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
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3. GOAL: Enhance customer satisfaction and build community support for public transportation.
A. OBJECTIVE: Implement technology to enhance the customer experience.
i. Strategy: Implement technologies as identified in Goal 1, Objective A. See Goal 1, Objective A for details.
B. OBJECTIVE: Work with service contractor to ensure provision of excellent customer service by front-line employees.
i. Strategy: Ensure service contractor’s training program for front-line employees who interact with the public regularly emphasizes excellence.
Monitor annual training opportunities and public comments.
Monitoring
ii. Strategy: Participate in service contractor’s monthly safety meetings and emphasize front-line Staff’s important role in representing SolTrans well.
# of Safety Meetings attended by June of each year.
All meetings attended by SolTrans Staff
C. OBJECTIVE: Create outreach, marketing and branding materials that appeal to various sectors of the community and communicate SolTrans’ mission.
i.Strategy: Create marketing materials that communicate the benefits of transit with an emphasis on affordability, environmental stewardship, convenience, reliability, safety/security, comfort, ADA accessibility, etc.
Ongoing. Provide regular reports to the Board.
Reports provided at each Board meeting.
ii.
Strategy: Pursue partnerships with local artists to develop/enhance outreach marketing and branding materials, as well as public pieces that can help communicate SolTrans’ mission and contribute to shaping a beautiful and vibrant community.
Ongoing. Provide regular reports to the Board.
“Miro-on-a-bus” bus wrap installed in March 2017.
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Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
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iii.Strategy: Pursue on-line and web-based marketing strategies (i.e., Google Analytics, Facebook, etc.) to target groups such as millennials, in order to build the SolTrans brand and increase public awareness.
Activity 1: Track website traffic and other measures of visibility on-line.Demonstrate and increase in progress year over year. Monitoring.
Activity 2: Track “likes” and comments on Facebook, as well as other tools provided by on-line media for tracking SolTrans’ visibility and reach.
Demonstrate and increase in progress year over year. Monitoring.
D. OBJECTIVE: Establish a public outreach program that is valued by the community and result in strong, mutually beneficial partnerships.
i.
Strategy: Build relationships with key community stakeholders and local organizations to build SolTrans’ profile and reputation as a valued public asset to the community that provides excellent services that are AFFORDABLE, RELIABLE, CONVENIENT, AND SAFE.
Organize at least 5 annual partnership opportunities
Inform the Board whenever a public partnership opportunity occurs.
ii.Strategy: Collect customer satisfaction data and community feedback on public perception of SolTrans to understand and/or address SolTrans’ strengths or weaknesses.
Activity 1: Conduct annual trend analysis of public feedback/validated comments collected through the Solutions for Transit database.
Demonstrate 100% response rate to customer comments and decline in valid, service-related complaints.
New CRM to allow for this reporting implemented. Reporting still in process
Activity 2: Conduct biennial surveys of customer/community satisfaction.Demonstrate growing satisfaction and/or approval among current riders and community members.
Ready for Spring 2017 survey in partnership with MTC and STA.
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Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
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iii. Strategy: Build relationships with local vendors and businesses and maximize opportunities to “buy local.”
Provide local vendor utilization report to the Board by December of each year.
Report provided in December 2016.
iv.Strategy: Implement service promotions and special programs to grow a dedicated population of riders and advocates for public transportation.
Implement at least 5 annual promotions or special programs.
Grow ridership at least 1% annually on appropriate routes.
Track number of support letters and requests from public organizations or members to partner on programs, etc. –indicating growing perception of SolTrans as a public asset.
Special promotions have included Summer Slice, Spring Break, Contra Costa BOGO, Route 20 free months, Route 9 free month.Ridership flat, consistent with regionwide shrinkage in transit usage.
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Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
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4. GOAL: Develop an efficient and effective team of employees for ensuring long-term organizational viability.
A. OBJECTIVE: Establish a clear organizational structure and Staff roles and strengthen Staff expertise and sense of ownership.
i. Strategy: Provide Staff training and professional growth opportunities.Managers to create annual work plans that outline professional development.
Staff have attended National Transit Database training. Training on new software tools has been conducted on-site with SolTrans and contractor staff.
ii.Strategy: Establish Staff contributions for building/ strengthening the organization based upon performance measurements and annual and bi-annual reviews.
Establish goals and objectives for each Agency position per the performance management program.
iii. Strategy: Conduct facilitated, structured team-building/strategic planning session(s) with SolTrans Staff and Board of Directors.
Organize Strategic Planning Sessions.
iv. Strategy: Complete Annual Goals and Performance Measures for the following fiscal year.
Obtain Board approval by June of each fiscal year.
Draft 2017-18 goals prepared for Board review
v. Strategy: Conduct an Organizational Assessment through the American Public Transit Association, in an effort to strengthen the Agency.
Complete by June 2017.
vi.Strategy: Revise organizational structure as necessary to meet Agency priorities, any potential recommendations from the FTA Triennial Review, and/or any recommendations that come out of the APTA peer review.
The Board will be kept informed as revisions are considered.
Community and External Affairs Officer position created and hired.
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Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
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vii.Strategy: Conduct salary and benefits surveys per SolTrans’ Performance Management Program and adjust compensation packages as needed to recruit and retain valued employees.
Conduct surveys every 5 years (following 2015), as shown on the “Pay for Performance” calendar.
B. OBJECTIVE: Increase SolTrans Presence Among Staff and Within the County, Region and State.
i. Strategy: Continue to build SolTrans presence in the Cities of Vallejo and Benicia, Solano County, the MTC region, and the transit industry as a whole.
Participation in local, regional, state and national committees. Provide regular updates in monthly Executive Director’s Report included in Board meeting packets.
Staff participating in North Bay Transportation Officials, Regional Transit Procurement, Small Operator Clipper Advisory Group, MTC Survey Development Team, MTC-led Regional Emergency Operations Coordination Team; CTA Operations and Maintenance Committees; APTA Multimodal and Marketing Committees.
ii. Strategy: Create and disseminate regular newsletters for the public and the Board on Agency developments/updates.
Produce at least 2 newsletters per year.
Newsletters distributed.
iii.
Strategy: In the event of a local, county, or regional emergency or need, provide operational or administrative support to other transit agencies or organizations, as long as such help does not compromise organizational stability or fiscal health. (Example: Provide augmented transit service to/from San Francisco in the event of a BART strike, if funding is provided by MTC, and sufficient Staff/equipment is available.)
Provide assistance as appropriate and provide regular updates to the Board.
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Approved: May 19, 2016 ATTACHMENT ALast Updated: April 6, 2017 Agenda Item 8D
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iv. Strategy: In order to help Staff raise public awareness of SolTrans, complete re-branding of transit equipment/ assets.
Rebrand local fixed route fleet by June 2017, and rebrand other SolTrans vehicles as they are replaced.
Rebrand vehicle deliveries have begun, including small buses, commuter coaches, and electric transit buses.
C. OBJECTIVE: Emphasize the value of employee contributions to the organization and strengthen their sense of teamwork.
i. Strategy: Establish and maintain employee appreciation and recognition programs.
Activity: Continue the annual awards ceremony for employees that celebrate safety, customer service, and other operational achievements.
Hold an event by December of each year.
4 NEXT employees and 1 SolTrans employee have been selected as annual award recipients, and were recognized in an award ceremony during the October Board Meeting.
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AGENDA ITEM 8EBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: DENNIS YBARRA, PROGRAM ANALYST II
SUBJECT: APPROVE SOLTRANS’ APPLICATION FOR LOW CARBON TRANSIT OPERATIONS PROGRAM (LCTOP) FUNDS FOR FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2016-17 IN THE AMOUNT OF $155,480
ACTION: RESOLUTION
ISSUE:
SolTrans has submitted an allocation request to Caltrans and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) for funds from the LCTOP, which will provide operating and capital assistance for transit agencies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve mobility. SolTrans is applying for $155,480 to be used for the purchase of an all-electric bus, the total cost of which is expected to be $960,000. This new bus will be used to replace a portion of a diesel hybrid bus on the fixed local routes. The Board is being asked to authorize a resolution for the execution of the LCTOP project for the purchase of the new bus, as shown in Attachment A, and a resolution to authorize the LCTOP Certifications and Assurances, as shown in Attachment B. The Certifications and Assurances themselves are provided in Attachment C. There are two resolutions rather than one because Caltrans’ grant application instructions are very specific that two are required.
DISCUSSION:
SolTrans needs to apply for their allocated LCTOP funds for FY 2016-17. SolTrans has been allocated $25,920 in LCTOP revenue based funds. STA determines the allocation of the LCTOP population based funds for Solano County. STA has allocated $70,367 to SolTrans based on SolTrans’ proportion of population of the total county population. Additionally, SolTrans has agreed to apply for the funds allocated to the Cities of Dixon, Rio Vista and Vacaville in exchange for TDA funds. These cities have small amounts allocated to them and do not have qualifying projects for such little funds. With the swap of funds, SolTrans will be applying for $155,480 in LCTOP funding and giving $59,193 of TDA to Dixon, Rio Vista and Vacaville.
Funds that SolTrans is applying for from the Caltrans sponsored-LCTOP will be used to purchase a zero-emission all-electric bus to replace partial usage of a hybrid diesel-electric bus. Operation of this bus will be divided equally between service to Route 3, which serves an area identified by California Senate Bill 535 as a Disadvantaged Community within the City of Vallejo; an area which lacks schools, medical facilities or grocery stores. According to the cap-and-trade legislation, at least half of SolTrans’ LCTOP allocation must be spent in services or projects that benefit this Disadvantaged Community.
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The addition of a zero-emission all-electric bus to the SolTrans local fixed route fleet will achieve the following benefits required of LCTOP projects:
Greenhouse gas emissions reductions, Enhanced transit service to increase mode share, and Provide benefits to Disadvantaged Communities.
Staff intends to roll over this funding for 4 years until enough funds have accumulated to cover the majority of the cost of the bus. The program requires agencies to submit an application for their allocated funds each year even if they plan to roll over the funds to the next year. LCTOP funds from the auction of carbon credits from the Cap and Trade System have been much lower than forecasted due to legal issues regarding the program. Since this cycle’s allocation contribute a relatively low portion of the cost of the bus, if proceeds from Cap and Trade continue to be lower than forecasted, and the accumulated funds don’t cover a more substantial portion of the cost of the bus, we can amend the application in a future year to propose a different type of project with a lower cost that fits better into our budget constraints.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The total cost of the zero-emission all-electric bus is $960,000, of which $155,480 will be met by LCTOP funds. SolTrans will not purchase the bus until the majority of the cost is covered by LCTOP or other funding sources, and approved by the Board as part of the capital budget.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 2- Optimize fiscal health and long-term sustainability; Objective C – Strategically align financial resources with operational and capital priorities.
RECOMMENDATION:
1) Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A that authorizes the execution of the LCTOP Project, and
2) Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment B that authorizes the LCTOP Certifications and Assurances.
Attachments:A. Resolution No. 2017-01B. Resolution No. 2017-02C. LCTOP Certifications and Assurances
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ATTACHMENT AAgenda Item 8E
RESOLUTION 2017-01
AUTHORIZATION FOR THE EXECUTION OF THE LOW CARBON TRANSIT OPERATIONS PROGRAM (LCTOP) PROJECT:
PURCHASE OF ONE ELECTRIC BUS IN THE AMOUNT OF $155,480
WHEREAS, Solano County Transit (SolTrans) is an eligible project sponsor and may receive state funding from LCTOP now or sometime in the future for transit projects; and
WHEREAS, the statutes related to state-funded transit projects require a local or regional implementing agency to abide by various regulations; and
WHEREAS, Senate Bill 862 (2014) named the California Department of Transportation (Department) as the administrative agency for the LCTOP; and
WHEREAS, the Department has developed guidelines for the purpose of administering and distributing LCTOP funds to eligible project sponsors (local agencies); and
WHEREAS, SolTrans wishes to apply for LCTOP funds to be used for the purchase of an electric bus to replace a diesel bus,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Directors of SolTrans that the fund recipient agrees to comply with all conditions and requirements set forth in the applicable statutes, regulations and guidelines for all LCTOP funded transit projects.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board of Directors of SolTrans that it authorizes the submittal of the following project nomination(s) and allocation request(s) to theDepartment in FY 2016-17 LCTOP funds:
Project Name: SolTrans Electric Bus PurchaseAmount of LCTOP Funds Requested: $155,480Short description of Project: Purchase One Electric Bus for the Replacement of a Diesel
Hybrid for Local Bus ServiceContributing Sponsor (if applicable): Metropolitan Transportation Commission
Passed by the Solano County Transit (SolTrans) Board on this 20th day of April, 2017, by the following vote:
Ayes: ________ Noes: ________ Absent: ________ Abstain: ________
__________________________________ Bob Sampayan, Chair
Solano County Transit (SolTrans) Attest: ______________________
Suzanne Fredriksen Clerk of the Board 51
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ATTACHMENT BAgenda Item 8E
RESOLUTION 2017-02
AUTHORIZATION FOR THE EXECUTION OF THE CERTIFICATIONS AND ASSURANCES FOR THE LOW CARBON TRANSIT
OPERATIONS PROGRAM (LCTOP)
WHEREAS, Solano County Transit (SolTrans) is an eligible project sponsor and may receive state funding from the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP; and
WHEREAS, the statutes related to state-funded transit projects require a local or regional implementing agency to abide by various regulations; and
WHEREAS, Senate Bill 862 (2014) named the California Department of Transportation (Department) as the administrative agency for the LCTOP; and
WHEREAS, the Department has developed guidelines for the purpose of administering and distributing LCTOP funds to eligible project sponsors (local agencies); and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Directors of Solano County Transit that the fund recipient agrees to comply with all conditions and requirements set forth in the applicable statutes, regulations and guidelines for all LCTOP-funded transit projects.
Passed by the Solano County Transit (SolTrans) Board on this 20th day of April, 2017, by the following vote:
Ayes: ________ Noes: ________ Absent: ________ Abstain: ________
__________________________________ Bob Sampayan, Chair
Solano County Transit (SolTrans) Attest: ______________________
Suzanne Fredriksen Clerk of the Board
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ATTACHMENT CAGENDA ITEM 8EBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
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AGENDA ITEM 8FBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: DENNIS YBARRA, PROGRAM ANALYST II
SUBJECT: AUTHORIZE APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL GRANTS
ACTION: RESOLUTION
ISSUE:
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has issued a new requirement for grantees to obtain an annual authorizing Board resolution for FTA grant applications for any federal grant and to execute the required annual Federal Certifications and Assurances.
DISCUSSION:
A Resolution authorizing the Executive Director to execute and file applications for FTA grant applications for annually allocated federal funds is sought from the Board. Prior to submitting a federal grant application, federal funds must be approved in the Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) maintained by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC). SolTrans is required to obtain a Board resolution authorizing the Executive Director to program federal funds in the TIP based on Staff’s recommendation. Historically, this resolution also served as authorization to apply for the federal funds as they were programmed in the TIP.
The most recent authorization to comply with the MTC requirement was approved by the Board in its meeting of December 15, 2016, resulting in Resolution No. 2016-12 for programmingfederal funds in the FY 2017 – FY 2020 TIP. However, the FTA has to yet approve the SolTransfederal grant application for funds that were programmed in the FY 2016 and prior TIP, approved by the Board on October 15, 2015 in Resolution No. 2015-12. Because of the inherently unpredictable nature of funding and approval cycles, resolutions can become outdated with the passage of time. To resolve this issue, FTA requires that we seek approval of a general authorization to apply for any federal grant and to execute the required certifications and assurances.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact for this Board resolution authorizing the Executive Director to apply for federal funds previously approved by the Board for programming in the TIP. All funds applied for in the federal grant application are approved by the Board in the annual budget prior to encumbering or spending any of the funds.
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PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 2- Optimize fiscal health and long-term sustainability; Objective C – Strategically align financial resources with operational and capital priorities.
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A to authorize the filing of federal grant applications and the execution of the required certifications and assurances.
Attachment:A. Resolution No. 2017-03
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ATTACHMENT A Agenda Item 8F
SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT RESOLUTION NO. 2017-03
RESOLUTION OF SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT (SOLTRANS) BOARD AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF APPLICATIONS FOR FTA FORMULA GRANTS FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS AND OPERATING ASSISTANCE, AND AUTHORIZING
EXECUTION OF FTA REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS TO COMPLETE FEDERAL PROJECTS
WHEREAS, Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST, Public Law 114-94), its predecessor legislation Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21, Public Law Public Law 112-141), and any successor legislation, continue and establish new Federal Transit Administration formula programs (23 U.S.C. §53) and continue the Surface Transportation Program (23 U.S.C. §133); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Federal authorizing legislation, and the regulations promulgated thereunder, eligible project sponsors wishing to receive Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5307 Urbanized Area or Section 5339 Bus and Bus Facilities (collectively, FTA Formula Program) for a project shall submit an application first with the appropriate metropolitan transportation planning organization (MPO), for review and inclusion in the MPO's Transportation Improvement Program (TIP); and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) is the MPO for the San Francisco Bay region; and
WHEREAS, SolTrans is an eligible project sponsor for FTA Formula Program or STP funds; and
WHEREAS, the SolTrans programming of the MTC TIP for federal projects is separately approved each year by the Board;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the SolTrans Board of Directors that the SolTrans Executive Director is authorized to execute and file applications for funding under the FTA Formula Program or any other FTA grant program; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the SolTrans Board of Directors, by adopting this Resolution, states that:
1. SolTrans will comply with FTA requirements and all other applicable Federal, State and Local laws and regulations with respect to proposed projects, including local match requirements; and
2. The Executive Director is authorized to execute any certifications and assurances required by the FTA in relation to specific grants, or by the FTA funding program as a whole, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that SolTrans is an eligible sponsor of projects in the program for FTA Formula Program funds; and
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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that SolTrans is authorized to submit an application for FTA Formula Program for its capital and operating assistance projects; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that there is no legal impediment to SolTrans making applications for FTA Formula Program funds; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that there is no pending or threatened litigation which might in any way adversely affect proposed projects, or the ability of SolTrans to deliver such project.
Passed by the Solano County Transit Board of Directors on this 20th day of April 2017 by the following vote:
Ayes: _______Noes: _______Absent: _______ Abstain: _______
_______________________________ Bob Sampayan, Chair Solano County Transit (SolTrans)
Attest: ______________________ Suzanne Fredriksen Clerk of the Board
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AGENDA ITEM: 8GBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: MANDI RENSHAW, PROGRAM ANALYST I
SUBJECT: APPROVE REDUCED FARE PROGRAM FOR AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) PARATRANSIT CERTIFIED AND PERSONAL CARE ATTENDANTS ON LOCAL FIXED ROUTE SYSTEM
ACTION: MOTION
ISSUE:
Staff is asking the Board to authorize an extension to the pilot fare policy for ADA certified paratransit clients and their personal care attendants (PCAs) and that allows them to ride for $0.25 on the local fixed route system.
DISCUSSION:
In 2014, the demand for ADA paratransit services was increasing. Several transit agencies implemented very low fare or free fare programs for PCAs and/or ADA-certified clients on fixed route. Staff recognized the growing demand for paratransit services on the SolTrans system, with 6% growth in client eligibility between FY 2012-13 and FY 2013-14.
In January 2014, Staff brought to the Board options for maintaining ADA-mandated service while keeping up with the new increased demand. The Board approved a three-year pilot that offers a $0.25 per ride fare for ADA-certified transit riders and their PCAs on the local fixed route system only. This was a 71% reduction from the base Senior, Disabled, and Medicare local fare of $0.85. The reduced fare pilot is only valid for single ride cash fares and would not apply to any other fare media such as the Day Pass, 10-Ride Pass or Monthly Pass. The pilot was implemented May 1, 2014 and is set to expire April 30, 2017.
The Agency has collected some performance data to better understand the impact of the $0.25 Fare Policy on both the fixed route and paratransit systems. For FY 2015-16, Staff had reported an 8% decrease in paratransit ridership, compared to the previous fiscal year, with local fixed route ridership increasing 5%. It could be assumed paratransit ridership had moved over to fixed route. Staff is projecting a 7% decrease in FY 2016-17 paratransit ridership from the previous fiscal year, but local fixed route ridership is projected to decrease as well. Staff is unsure at this time if the drop in local fixed route is paralleling the decrease in paratransit ridership, and needs more data and time to explore the ridership trends of FY 2016-17 and the impact of the pilot fareon farebox revenue and ridership.
Staff requests the Board to approve a six-month extension to the $0.25 pilot fare on local fixed route for ADA certified riders to October 31, 2017. Staff will return to the Board prior to that date with an analysis of the pilot fare and paratransit ridership, and a recommendation.
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FISCAL IMPACT:
ADA certified riders have always been eligible to ride our local fixed routes for $0.85. The pilot fare of $0.25 represents a loss of $0.60 per rider in fare revenue. However, paratransit rides cost approximately $50 per hour for driver and fuel costs; therefore, moving riders from Paratransit to Local fixed route saves the Agency this cost while incurring no additional costs on fixed route.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 1 - Maximize the safety, reliability and efficiency of transit services to allow for long-term system sustainability and competitiveness for grant funds; Objective D – Improve system performance and efficiency of demand response services.; Strategy i - Coordinate with STA on improvements to the Intercity taxi program and explore improvements to the local taxi scrip program for added operational efficiency and customer ease of use
RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize Staff to extend the reduced fare pilot until October 31, 2017 to allow additional time for further analysis. Staff will return to the Board after the end of the fiscal year with a recommendation as to whether the fare should be made permanent, adjusted or discontinued.
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AGENDA ITEM: 8H BOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: DENNIS YBARRA, PROGRAM ANALYST II
SUBJECT: AUTHORIZE THE APPLICATION AND EXECUTION OF FEDERAL GRANTS
ACTION: RESOLUTION
ISSUE:
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) requires grant applicants to submit a resolution authorizing designated officials to submit FTA grant applications. The title of the Agency’s chief executive officer needs to be updated to reflect the current title, Executive Director.
DISCUSSION:
FTA Circular 9030.1E provides guidelines for the preparation of grant applications to obtainFederal assistance for transit projects under the Urbanized Area Formula Program. Grant applicants must submit a resolution authorizing designated officials to submit FTA grant applications, annual certifications and assurances, and to execute grant and cooperative agreements.
On June 11, 2012, the Board adopted an authorizing resolution for this purpose, designating the General Manager to submit and execute grant applications and related documents. Since then, the title of the position has changed to Executive Director. Attached is an updated resolution that reflects the change.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no direct fiscal impact of this change.
The Board will continue to be presented for approval with specific projects and dollar amounts for each individual grant or group of grants as we prepare to apply for them.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 2- Optimize fiscal health and long-term sustainability; Objective C – Strategically align financial resources with operational and capital priorities.
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RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A to submit the filing of federal grant applications, annual certifications and assurances, and to execute grant and cooperative agreements.
Attachment:A. Resolution No. 2017-04
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ATTACHMENT AAgenda Item 8H
RESOLUTION NO. 2017-04
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF APPLICATIONS WITH THE FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION, AN OPERATING ADMINISTRATION FOR THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, FOR FEDERAL TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE AUTHORIZED BY 49 U.S.C. CHAPTER 53; TITLE 23, UNITED STATES
CODE, OR OTHER FEDERAL STATUTES ADMINISTERED BY THE FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION
WHEREAS, the Federal Transit Administrator has been delegated authority to award Federal financial assistance for a transportation project;
WHEREAS, the grant or cooperative agreement for Federal Financial assistance will impose certain obligations upon the Applicant, and may require the Applicant to provide the local share of the project cost;
WHEREAS, the Applicant has or will provide all annual certifications and assurances to the Federal Transit Administration required for the project;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Solano County Transit Board of Directors
1. The Executive Director and/or acting Executive Director or his/her designee is authorized to execute and file application for Federal assistance on behalf of Solano County Transit with the Federal Transit Administration for Federal Assistance authorized by 49.U.S.C. chapter 53, Title 23, United States Code, or other Federal statutes authorizing a project administered by the Federal Transit Administration. Solano County Transit received authority from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to apply Urbanized Area Formula Program assistance on June 22, 2011.
2. The Executive Director and/or acting Executive Director or his/her designee is authorized to execute and file with its application the annual certification and assurances and other document the Federal Transportation Administration requires before awarding a Federal assistance grant or cooperative agreement.
3. The Executive Director and/or acting Executive Director or his/her designee is authorized to execute grant and cooperative agreements with the Federal Transit Administration on behalf of Solano County Transit.
Passed and adopted by the Solano County Transit (SolTrans) Board on this 20th Day of April, 2017by the following vote:
Ayes: _____Noes: _____Absent: _____Abstain: _____
_____________________________________Bob Sampayan, ChairSolano County Transit
Attest: ____________________________________Suzanne Fredriksen, Clerk of the Board
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AGENDA ITEM: 9ABOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: MICHAEL SCANLON, INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTORMICHAEL ABEGG, PLANNING & OPERATIONS MANAGER
SUBJECT: DRAFT FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2017-18 SOLTRANS PERFORMANCE MEASURES
ACTION: MOTION
ISSUE:
The Board is being asked to provide feedback on SolTrans’ Draft FY 2017-18 Performance Measures. These have traditionally guided Staff efforts in pursuing and implementing the Agency’s mission and associated priorities.
DISCUSSION:
The FY 2017-18 Performance Measures represent a substantial revision to the organization of the document. It focuses on clearly defining SolTrans’ Mission, Values, and Goal Areas, then identifying those Objectives, Strategies, and Activities that will specifically support progress toward the Goals.
It proposes a minor, but important, revision to the Mission Statement, to identify five key characteristics of what SolTrans does: “We provide safe, reliable, courteous, efficient, and convenient transportation services that effectively link people, jobs, and communities.” The addition of “courteous” and “convenient” to this statement conveys the message that it is no longer adequate to have an affordable and safely operated bus arrive on-time, but that the services should be available to a large group of customers (convenient both in location and in time) and that customers should be treated as a valued part of the team.
The six revised Goal Areas are meant to help indicate the parts of the organization primarilyresponsible for their delivery. At the same time, each Area overlaps the others and requires cooperation among all managers and Staff to deliver results. The six Goal Areas and Goals are:
1. Service – Deliver transit services which meet the needs of SolTrans’ customers2. Infrastructure – Ensure vehicles and buildings are maintained in a state of good repair3. Finance – Optimize fiscal health and sustainability4. Community Trust and Values – Build and maintain community trust and value in the
transit system5. Team Development – Develop an efficient and effective team of employees for ensuring
long-term organizational viability6. Business Practices – Establish and maintain effective business practices which support
operational efficiency, legal compliance and best practices69
While Staff has adapted existing Objectives, Strategies, and Activities to the new structure, this document identifies Agency needs that now more clearly belong as Performance Measures. At the same time, there are some areas of the revised document that are less well-developed. With the recent hiring of the new Community and External Affairs Officer, Staff felt it better to leave the Community Trust and Values Goal Area only partially defined to allow the new position to help organize that work. Also, with the transition from the previous to interim to future Executive Director, activities in the Team Development and Business Practices Goal Areas will need additional revisions both before the adoption of this document, as well as during the fiscal year.
Compared with the current Performance Measures document, this new version provides an increase in the number of reportable items Staff will manage, especially in Service and Infrastructure. At the same time, it re-focuses Agency Staff on performing work over which it has more direct control. While increasing bus ridership may be a desirable outcome, for example, it is influenced by factors beyond the control and management of SolTrans Staff. Instead, Staff will target those activities (such as safety, customer service training, schedule information) that will tend to drive ridership up by improving the attractiveness of riding the bus.
Likewise, on the infrastructure side, Staff will perform activities to optimize the cost of fueling buses of different types – but cannot avoid a large increase in the price of diesel fuel, or a revision to PG&E electrical rates. Financial stability is driven by adequate collection of various taxes that fund the Agency; Staff’s attention will be on maximizing eligibility for available funds and spending those funds effectively.
In sum, the revised Performance Measures and work program reflects Board interest in strengthening SolTrans’ foundation and continuing to build a viable and sustainable transit system. It also encourages the Agency to remain agile and responsive to community interests and continue to improve and innovate. At the same time, by adding courtesy and convenience to the Mission Statement, it represents a sharper concentration on the experience of SolTrans’ existing and future customers.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Non-financial item; no fiscal impact.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 4 – Develop an efficient and effective team of employees for ensuring long-term organizational viability; Objective A – Establish a clear organizational structure and Staff roles and strengthen Staff expertise and sense of ownership; Strategy iv – Complete Annual Goals and Performance Measures for the following fiscal year.
RECOMMENDATION:
1) Provide feedback to Staff regarding the proposed changes to the agency’s mission statement, as shown on page 1 of Attachment A; and
2) Direct the Interim Executive Director to finalize the FY 2017-18 Performance Goals and Measures, per feedback from the SolTrans Board and Technical and Public Advisory Committees, and to present a final document to the Board in May 2017 for approval.
Attachment:A. Draft FY 2017-18 Performance Goals and Measures document.
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ATTACHMENT A – Agenda Item 9A
Mission, Values and Goals
MISSION STATEMENT:
Current: "We deliver safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services that effectively link people, jobs, and communities."
Proposed: "We provide safe, reliable, courteous, efficient, and convenient transportation services that effectively link people, jobs, and communities."
VALUES: GOALS:
SAFETY is never compromised
CUSTOMERS are our purpose 1. Service
IMPROVEMENT is continuous 2. Infrastructure
We envision the FUTURE when we make decisions today 3. Finance
We exercise fiscal DISCIPLINE 4. Community trust and value
We are responsible for the ENVIRONMENT 5. Team development
We are TRUSTEES of the community's transit system 6. Business practices
We COLLABORATE to exceed our own abilities
We seek JUSTICE - social, economic, and environmental
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FY 2017-18 Solano County Transit (SolTrans) Performance Goals and MeasuresThe intent of the Performance Goals and Objectives for SolTrans is to guide Staff’s decision-making processes and to organize the Agency’s activities in a meaningful manner, in order to effect positive change and improve performance, as desired by the Board of Directors for carrying-out SolTrans’ mission: “We provide safe, reliable, courteous, efficient, and convenient transportation services that effectively link people, jobs, and communities."
The following goals provide a framework for pursuing our mission: 1) Deliver transit services which meet the needs of SolTrans’ customers; 2) ensure vehicles and buildings are maintained in a state of good repair; 3) optimize fiscal health and sustainability; 4) build and maintain community trust and value in the transit system; 5) develop an efficient and effective team of employees for ensuring long-term organizational viability; and 6) establish and maintain effective business practices which support operational efficiency, legal compliance and best practices. In order to achieve these goals, objectives and strategies are outlined in the table below. Performance on each is then tracked according to progress made on a specified standard or milestone or pure accomplishment of a specific strategy or activity. Also, in some cases, performance in a particular area is ongoing, and in this case, Staff will keep the Board informed on notable progress made.
GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
1. GOAL: Deliver transit services which meet the needs of SolTrans’ customers.
A. OBJECTIVE: Deliver safe services.
i. Strategy: Maintain and improve operating contractor’s safety and training practices
Activity 1: Audit operating contractor’s personnel records. Annually
Activity 2: Perform site visit to substance abuse collection site(s). (Share with Objective F) Annually
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 3: Report safety data and show improvement in safety climate. Monthly
ii. Strategy: Identify and remedy inadequate bus stop locations. (Share with Goal 2)
Activity 1: Perform stop location audits. 20 each quarter, starting in July 2017
Activity 2: Respond to all customer requests for review of stop safety. 100% of requests reviewed and responded to
iii. Strategy: Audit operational practices and policies for potentially unsafe situations.
Activity 1: Conduct formal safety review with operating contractor staff. Quarterly
Activity 3: Maintain “suggestion box” policy for contractor staff to identify safety concerns. Ongoing
Activity 4: Attend contractor’s safety meetings. Quarterly
B. OBJECTIVE: Deliver reliable services.
i. Strategy: Improve on-time performance of fixed route service.
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 1: Report on-time performance to the Board, partners, and public. Monthly
Activity 2: Revise schedules to improve on-time performance. Up to 3 times per year
Activity 3: Conduct formal service delivery performance reviews with contractor staff. Quarterly
Activity 4: Advocate to Caltrans and other agencies for transit advantages that deliver speed and reliability. Ongoing, as needed
ii. Strategy: Monitor reliability of demand-response services and identify necessary adjustments.
Activity 1: Implement MyRide for Paratransit customer information system. Complete by December 2017
Activity 2: Work with operating contractor to improve call center and scheduling practices. Ongoing
iii. Strategy: Improve customer access to real-time information.
Activity 1: Identify additional locations for dynamic signage.
Identify top five locations by December 2017; determine funding parameters/availability by June 2018
Activity 2: Partner with MTC/511 and others to increase access to real-time information across systems platforms.
Real-time info in 511 by December 2017
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 3: Use social media to provide service delivery updates. Ongoing; strategy defined by September 2017
C. OBJECTIVE: Deliver courteous service.
i. Strategy: Monitor operating contractor’s customer service training programs.
Activity 1: Audit customer service training records. Annually
Activity 2: Identify opportunities for training partnerships. Identify one new opportunity every six months
ii. Strategy: Respond effectively to customer concerns and complaints.
Activity 1: Establish thresholds and report on progress against thresholds for customer contact responses.
Thresholds established by September 2017; begin reporting in December 2017
Activity 2: Review contact data to identify patterns of customer complaints and translate to actions. Quarterly with annual summary
Activity 3: Continue to implement enhanced customer service management tools. Ongoing
iii. Strategy: Reward courteous service.
Activity 1: Encourage participation in APTA and other customer service challenges. Ongoing
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 2: Improve reward structure for front-line personnel surpassing expectations. June 2018
iv. Strategy: Provide customer materials that inform rider choices.
Activity 1: Partner with Solano Mobility Call Center to better route callers to appropriate services. Finalize by September 2017
Activity 2: Revise publication program to provide consistent information paths. December 2017
v. Strategy: Monitor ADA Eligibility Program to ensure justice in service availability.
Activity 1: Review certification and recertification standards. Annually
Activity 2: Conduct independent customer satisfaction survey to identify opportunities for improvement. March 2018
Activity 3: Identify additional outreach opportunities for potential eligible customers. June 2018
D. OBJECTIVE: Deliver efficient services.
i. Strategy: Report performance of individual routes and other service groupings.
Activity 1: Implement routine reporting of performance from CAD system.
September 2017, reporting daily, monthly and annually
Activity 2: Use performance reports to identify poorly-utilized service elements. Ongoing
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
ii. Strategy: Seek out new service models where existing services are inefficient.
Activity 1: Define plan for local Mobility-on-Demand-based service initiatives.
December 2017 for inclusion in the FY 18-19 budget
Activity 2: Work with Solano Transportation Authority to advance Express Corridor Plan Implementation.
Timeline is driven by STA; SolTrans to actively partner with STA to drive toward implementation
Activity 3: Coordinate with partners to implement revisions to intercity paratransit programs. Ongoing
Activity 4: Define appropriate service type and levels for Mare Island. Complete by September 2017
iii. Strategy: Procure transportation services for period starting July 1, 2018
Activity 1: Review option terms in existing service contract and evaluate cost and benefit of exercising option year(s). August 2017
Activity 2: Release Request for Proposals including industry best-practices and specific needs identified by SolTrans Staff. October 2017
Activity 3: Award contract for services or exercise options(s). March 2018
E. OBJECTIVE: Deliver convenient services.
i. Strategy: Identify unserved and underserved trip-making needs.
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 1: Utilize planning and data tools to define needypopulations. Ongoing
Activity 2: Craft and implement improved service plan for South Vallejo neighborhood. April 2018
ii. Strategy: Review and revise routings, stop locations, and schedules to improve immediate convenience of existing services.
Activity 1: Identify route extensions, frequency improvements, and span increases most likely to attract additional riders. Ongoing
Activity 2: Participate in City/County/Caltrans reviews of roadway improvements to identify transit opportunities. Ongoing
iii. Strategy: Improve justice in fare payment policies and procedures.
Activity 1:Identify and address barriers to increased Clipper participation and reduce the use of magnetic passes and tickets.
December 2017
Activity 2: Identify and reduce/eliminate inequities and inefficiencies in fare levels and policies. September 2017
Activity 3: Seek opportunities for streamlining the range of reduced fare programs. September 2017
iv. Strategy: Improve customer access to service information. (Share with Goal 4, Objective A, Strategy i.)
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 1:Identify and implement improvements to availability and display of Route and Schedule information in shelters and other public locations.
December 2017
Activity 2: Improve delivery of real-time service information through multiple channels (see Objective B, Strategy 3). Ongoing
Activity 3: Identify modifications to printed customer information materials and roll-out consolidated program of materials. June 2018
F. OBJECTIVE: Comply with laws and regulations
i. Strategy: Perform required oversight activities of contractors.
Activity 1: Perform contractor records audit. Annually
Activity 2: Perform substance abuse site visit. Annually
ii. Strategy: Maintain standards necessary for FTA Triennial Review compliance.
Activity 1: Update publications based on reportable items from 2015.
September 2017
Activity 2: Review reporting procedures for service-based statistical data. December 2017
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
2. GOAL: Ensure vehicles and buildings are maintained in a state of good repair.
A. OBJECTIVE: Provide transit operations with maintained and safe vehicles.
i. Strategy: Provide tools to vendor to plan and monitor vehicle maintenance activities.
Activity 1:Implement maintenance management system that schedules, tracks and documents vehicle maintenance activities.
June 2017
Activity 2: Set goals and targets with vendors that define SolTrans SGR. July 2017
Activity 3:Implement a daily dashboard that tracks PMI compliance, safety checks and the percentage of vehicles in operation.
September 2017
ii. Strategy: Provide oversight of vendor maintenance activities.
Activity 1: Audit vendor’s maintenance training records.
Ensure training is made available to maintenance personnel whenever there is a change in vehicle type, components or systems. Vendor to report training compliance to GS quarterly.
Activity 2: Audit PMI compliance documentation. A minimum of monthly
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
iii. Strategy: Maintain the appearance of SolTrans vehicles.
Activity 1: Issue the RFP for a new bus wash and complete construction.
Construction completed by July 2017
Activity 2: Perform weekly inspections of 20% of the fleet, focusing on appearance and safety. Ongoing
Activity 3: Track expiration of wrap advertising and have it removed within 48 hours. Ongoing
B. OBJECTIVE: Obtain vehicles and facilities that are aligned with our values of fuel efficiency and environmental responsibility.
i. Strategy: Engage in continuous education on the latest fleet technology and practices in fuel efficiency.
Activity 1: Participate in industry workshops, webinars and publications.
Activity 2: Collaborate with other transit agencies to gain knowledge and implement best practices.
Meet with other agencies at least quarterly
Activity 3: Provide reports to the Board on best practices and industry standards. Twice per fiscal year
Activity 4:Acquire a fuel management system to track and report our usage of CNG, electric, diesel and unleaded fuel sources.
June 2017
ii. Strategy: Renew bus fleet UBL utilizing low- or zero- emission vehicles.
Activity 1: Purchase replacements of small buses. December 2017
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 2: Complete replacement of high floor diesel buses. Order by July, deliver by July 2018
Activity 3: Continue staged replacement of express/commuter fleet.Order two by December 2017; secure funding for three by October 2017.
iii. Strategy: Partner with energy providers and transit agencies to gain knowledge on green building construction and maintenance.
Activity 1: Get a PG&E energy assessment of SolTrans buildings and set energy usage goals. March 2018
Activity 2: Lower energy usage of buildings through monitoring of heating, cooling and lighting during off peak hours. Ongoing
Activity 3: Reduce water usage of landscapes by replacing sprinklers with drip systems when applicable. Completed by November 2017
Activity 4: Explore and make recommendations to the Board on purchasing and installing solar panels at the O&M facility. January 2018
C. OBJECTIVE: Ensure the Agency maintains attractive, safe and welcoming facilities.
i. Strategy: Create a facilities maintenance plan using the O&M specifications.
Activity 1: Set up scheduling calendar with vendors for ongoing maintenance inspections of building components. Ongoing
ii. Strategy: Create a reporting tool for employees, vendors and the public to report facility irregularities.
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 1: Define scope of work and timetable for inspection, maintenance and repair of bus shelters and bus stops. August 2017
D. OBJECTIVE: Deliver capital projects on time and within budget.
i. Strategy: Utilize planning resources that incorporate timeline and expense reporting.
E. OBJECTIVE: Comply with laws and regulations.
i. Strategy: Work in conjunction with MTC to create a Transit Asset Management plan as required by the FTA. August 2018
Activity 1: Establish target SGR to meet requirements from the FTA. 100% completion by June 2017
Activity 2: Serve on the MTC panel to select a consultant for the regional TAM plan May 2017
ii. Strategy: Create Safety Management System (SMS) to meet FTA mandates.
Activity 1: Write a policy for the Board to approve and adopt as overall framework for the SMS. May 2017
Activity 2:Collaborate and confer with Staff, the vendor and the Executive Director to define and document their roles and responsibilities as it pertains to the SMS.
May 2017
Activity 3: Conduct a hazard and risk analysis. September 2017
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 4: Establish a safety and performance monitoring and measurement. October 2017
Activity 5: Document safety communication, promotion and training. October 2017
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
3. GOAL: Optimize fiscal health and sustainability.
A. OBJECTIVE: Maximize revenue from federal, state and regional grants.
i. Strategy: Pursue competitive grants.
Activity 1: Maintain connections with funding and vendor partners to ensure project readiness (shovel-ready). Ongoing.
Activity 2: Obtain at least one competitive grant per fiscal year. Ongoing as opportunities become available.
ii. Strategy: Monitor operational data to maximize performance based funding.
Activity 1: Develop dashboard report in Avail to track key data points. Completion by December 2017
Activity 2:Dedicate one analyst to monitor performance ratios and alert management to opportunities for maximizing funding.
Process started April 2017 and fully implemented by September 2017
iii. Strategy: Maximize funding from all appropriate/allocated funding sources (federal, state and local).
Activity 1: Program federal funding in a manner that maximizes regional funding. Update TIP December 2017
Activity 2: Pursue State Transit Assistance Lifeline Funds to the fullest amounts available.
Pending Call for Projects expected FY 2017-18
Activity 3:File required performance reports on-time to maintain eligibility.
On-going
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
B. OBJECTIVE: Ensure compliance with federal, state and local fiscal regulations and reporting.
i. Strategy: Successfully manage the federal and TDA triennial review processes (July 2014–June 2017).
Activity 1: Ensure all Staff is trained on the process. Complete by July 2017
Activity 2: Complete the reviewer’s information request on-time. Pending request expected Fall 2017
Activity 3: Prepare for the onsite review based on the reviewers’ focus areas.
Pending date of onsite review expected early 2018
ii. Strategy: Maintain accounting records to successfully complete the financial audit and report to the State Controller.
Activity 1: Close the fiscal year timely and prepare for the audit. Complete by September 2017
Activity 2: Manage the annual audit process, draft financial statements, and ensure audit issued timely. Complete by December 2017
Activity 3: Prepare the State Controller’s Report and file on-time. Complete by December 2017
iii. Strategy: Comply with NTD reporting requirements to ensure eligibility for grants.
Activity 1: Dedicate one analyst to data reporting and analysis and complete all submissions on-time.
Analyst assigned. Reporting is monthly and annually by October 31.
iv. Strategy: Maintain compliance with FTA regulations and internal policies.
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 1: Ensure procurement procedures and contract management systems are in place. Complete by September 2017
Activity 2: Ensure compliance with DBE and Civil Rights policies. Ongoing.
C. OBJECTIVE: Ensure financial resources are aligned with Agency goals/values.
i. Strategy: Annually complete the 10-year budget outlook for operations and capital.
Activity 1: Determine the need to increase fare revenue over the next 10 years, per our Board-approved Fare Policy.
Recommendation completed by July 2017
Activity 2: Determine the maximum operating expenses that allow us to maintain farebox recovery.
Complete annually as part of 10 year Outlook by April 2018
Activity 3: Determine capital priorities based on Board-approved goals and priorities within our funding constraints.
Complete annually as part of 10 year Outlook by April 2018
ii. Strategy: Prepare annual operating and capital budgets that align with the 10-year budget outlook.
Activity 1: Monitor spending versus the budget and provide updates to the Board. Quarterly
Activity 2: Bring budget adjustments to the Board. As needed
iii. Strategy: Maintain appropriate operating and capital reserves.
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Activity 1: Prepare detailed analysis to determine reserves needed to maintain operations based on funding risk factors. Complete by February 2018
Activity 2: Determine capital reserve needed to maintain assets in a state of good repair. Complete by April 2018
D. OBJECTIVE: Influence and shape legislative policies that affect our fiscal health.
i. Strategy: Maintain relationships with federal and state representatives. Will be completed by new CEAO and Executive Director
ii. Strategy: Actively participate in CTA and APTA to ensure our priorities are communicated.
iii. Develop legislative priorities with our federal and state lobbyists.
iv. Maintain relationships with STA and our peer agencies to influence legislation.
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
4. GOAL: Build and maintain community trust and value in the transit system.
A. OBJECTIVE: Foster active community marketing and outreach programs.
i.Strategy: Identify pairings of mission elements and community segments and choose appropriate methods for communicating those matches. (Shared with Goal 1, Objective E, Strategy iv.)
Activity 1: Redefine advertising strategies, including print, radio, television, and advanced media.
Activity 2: Define online and social media practices to meet expectations of customers and broader community.
Activity 3:Consolidate and streamline written publications to provide effectively segmented information to existing, new and potential riders.
ii. Strategy: Increase knowledge and understanding of rider and potential rider markets.
Activity 1: Perform outreach activities that include extensive intake of information.
Activity 2: Increase transparency of Staff thought process during all stages of service development.
B. OBJECTIVE: Build community partnerships.
i. Strategy: Seek out local artists and craftsmen to enhance the beauty and vibrancy of SolTrans’ place in the community.
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
ii. Strategy: Maintain contact with local vendors to provide goods and services when prudent.
iii. Strategy: Identify and partner with governmental entities, NGO’s, and for-profit organizations that can deliver specific services better than SolTrans.
iv. Strategy: Continue to implement service promotions to enhance participation in community activities.
C. OBJECTIVE: Explore opportunities in underserved and disadvantaged parts of the community.
i. Strategy: Develop data tools to identify communities of concern and communicate findings.
ii. Strategy: Identify potential partners in communities of concern (may include operating partners, resource identification partners, outreach partners, etc.)
D. OBJECTIVE: Partner with community on emergency response.
i. Strategy: Review existing community emergency response plans and identify enhanced SolTrans’ role. December 2017
ii. Strategy: Publish SolTrans community emergency action plan. June 2018
iii. Strategy: Participate in regional transit/transportation emergency plan activities. Ongoing
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
5. GOAL: Develop an efficient and effective team of employees for ensuring long-term organizational viability.
A. OBJECTIVE: Establish a clear organizational structure and Staff roles, and strengthen Staff expertise and sense of ownership.
i. Strategy: Provide Staff training and professional growth opportunities.Managers to create annual work plans that outline professional development.
ii.Strategy: Establish Staff contributions for building/strengthening the organization, based upon performance measurements and annual and bi-annual reviews.
Establish goals and objectives for each Agency position, per the performance management program.
iii. Strategy: Conduct facilitated, structured team-building/strategic planning session(s) with SolTrans Staff and Board of Directors.
Organize Strategic Planning Sessions.
iv. Strategy: Complete Annual Goals and Performance Measures for the following fiscal year.
Obtain Board approval by June of each fiscal year.
v. Strategy: Conduct an Organizational Assessment through the American Public Transit Association, in an effort to strengthen the Agency. Complete by June 2018.
vi.Strategy: Revise organizational structure as necessary to meet Agency priorities, any potential recommendations from the FTA Triennial Review, and/or any recommendations that come out of the APTA peer review.
The Board will be kept informed as revisions are considered.
vii.Strategy: Conduct salary and benefits surveys per SolTrans’ Performance Management Program, and adjust compensation packages as needed to recruit and retain valued employees.
Conduct surveys every 5 years (following 2015), as shown on the “Pay for Performance” calendar.
B. OBJECTIVE: Increase SolTrans presence among Staff and within the county, region and state.
i. Strategy: Continue to build SolTrans presence in the Cities of Vallejo and Benicia, Solano County, the MTC region, and the transit industry as a whole.
Participation in local, regional, state and national committees. Provide regular updates in monthly Executive Director’s
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
Report included in Board meeting packets.
ii. Strategy: Create and disseminate regular newsletters for the public and the Board on Agency developments/updates.
Produce at least 2 newsletters peer year.
iii.
Strategy: In the event of a local, county, or regional emergency or need, provide operational or administrative support to other transit agencies or organizations, as long as such help does not compromise organizational stability or fiscal health. (Example: Provide augmented transit service to/from San Francisco in the event of a BART strike, if funding is provided by MTC, and sufficient Staff/equipment is available.)
Provide assistance as appropriate and provide regular updates to the Board.
iv. Strategy: In order to help Staff raise public awareness of SolTrans, complete re-branding of transit equipment/assets.
Rebrand local fixed route fleet by June 2017, and rebrand other SolTrans vehicles as they are replaced.
C. OBJECTIVE: Emphasize the value of employee contributions to the organization and strengthen their sense of teamwork.
i. Strategy: Establish and maintain employee appreciation and recognition programs.
Activity: Continue the annual awards ceremony for employees that celebrate safety, customer service, and other operational achievements.
Hold an event by December of each year.
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GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STRATEGIES Performance Measurement
Standard/Milestone Achievement/Progress
6. GOAL: Establish and maintain effective business practices which support operational efficiency, legal compliance and best practices
A. OBJECTIVE: Ensure Agency compliance with laws governing local agency transparency, including the Ralph M. Brown Act, the CA Public Records Act (PRA), and the CA Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) regulations
i. Strategy: Board Clerk to attend annual League of Cities City Clerks New Law Seminar to stay current on changes in legislation.
100% completion of New Law Seminar by Dec. 2017; internal compliance auditing is ongoing
ii. Strategy: Establish a Records Retention Schedule in order to comply with regulations and best practices for records and information management. 100% completion by June 2018
B. OBJECTIVE: Ensure agency compliance with federal and state employment laws
i.Strategy: Board Clerk to attend a minimum of two training sessions annually as the HR point of contact for the Agency, to stay current on changes in employment legislation, and to update employee handbooks (as needed).
100% completion June 2018
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DRAFT FY2017-18 SOLTRANS
PERFORMANCE MEASURES Presented to: The Solano County Transit
Board of Directors
on April 20, 2017
Michael Scanlon, Interim Executive Director
Michael Abegg, Planning &
Operations Manager
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STRUCTURE OF DOCUMENT
Mission Statement, Values
Goal Areas
Objectives, Strategies
Activities, Measures
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MISSION STATEMENT REVISION
Current: "We provide safe, reliable and efficient
transportation services that effectively link people, jobs, and
communities."
Proposed: "We provide safe, reliable, courteous, efficient,
and convenient transportation services that effectively link
people, jobs, and communities."
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VALUES
Safety
Customers
Improvement
Future
Discipline
Environment
Trustees
Collaborate
Justice
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GOAL AREAS
EXTERNAL-FACING
Service
Infrastructure
Finance
Community Trust & Values
INTERNAL-FACING
Team Development
Business Practices
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QUESTIONS/
DISCUSSION?
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RECOMMENDED ACTION
1) Provide feedback to Staff regarding the proposed changes
to the agency’s mission statement, as shown on page 1 of
Attachment A; and,
2) Direct the Interim Executive Director to finalize the FY
2017-18 Performance Goals and Measures, per feedback
from the SolTrans Board and Technical and Public Advisory
Committees, and to present a final document to the Board
in May 2017 for approval.
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AGENDA ITEM 9BBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: KRISTINA BOTSFORD, FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION MANAGER
SUBJECT: BUDGET OUTLOOK THROUGH FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2026-27
ACTION: MOTION
ISSUE:
Per the SolTrans Budget Policy adopted by the Board on March 24, 2011, the Executive Director must provide the Board with a 10-Year Budget Outlook no later than April of each year.
DISCUSSION:
Staff has recently completed a review and update of the projected operating and capital revenues and expenditures for the next ten-year period, through FY 2026-27. The financial forecast was developed utilizing conservative revenue projections and realistic operating and capital cost estimates, based upon information currently available. Incorporated into this review is a preliminary fare analysis to determine the ability of the current fare structure to meet projected fiscal needs and the timing and magnitude of possible future fare adjustments.
Ten-Year Financial Forecast
The Ten-Year Financial Forecast (Attachment A) provides information on projected operating and capital funding needs over the next ten-year period (from FY 2017-18 through FY 2026-27), and the anticipated revenue which will be available to fund those costs. Staff has been working on the development of this forecast over the past several months. With the economic volatility experienced in recent years, and more recently, with the new federal administration, forecasting financial activity ten years into the future is a difficult task. Staff has completed this analysis,utilizing information currently available on future economic conditions, and also professional judgment on the future funding requirements needed for SolTrans to continue to provide efficient and quality transit service. The forecast was presented to the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) and the Executive Management Committee for their feedback, which has been incorporated. It was also presented as an informational item to the Public Advisory Committee (PAC).
The key assumptions upon which the Ten-Year Financial Forecast was developed are summarized below.
Operating Revenue
Sufficient revenue must be available in each year to fund annual operating expenses, and to maintain the operating reserve level of 15% of operating costs. Overall, costs are rising faster than revenue, primarily due to the Transit Services contract, which will lead to fare
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increases, no additional service, reductions to controllable costs and the need to find other sources of revenue.
Farebox and Taxi Scrip revenues are projected to increase by 1% per year due to increased ridership after the flat year we are projecting this fiscal year. A fare increase of 5% was included in the analysis for FY 2018-19, and every three subsequent years during the forecast period, in order to maintain a positive net operating position. A full fare increase analysis and recommendation will be brought to the Board later this year.
Revenue from Curtola Park and Ride Hub is projected to increase from an assumed 5% fee increase every two years, beginning in FY 2019-20. Staff anticipates that nearby lots will be increasing their fees, resulting in more parkers at our Park and Ride Hub.
State Transit Assistance Funding (STAF) – revenue based - is less than received in the past due to the drop in diesel tax revenue from low fuel prices, and with the addition of more agencies who are eligible to receive funding. Current year allocations are expected to be flat for the next fiscal year. An annual inflation factor of 2% was applied beginning in FY 2018-19, which is in line with SB1 that was passed by the Senate and expected to be signed by the Governor. This Bill increases the amount of diesel tax collected each year.
An annual inflation factor of 2% was applied to TDA funding beginning in FY 2017-18,based on MTC’s projections.
An annual inflation factor of 1.5% was applied to Section 5307 funding in each year of the forecast. This is the factor used by MTC in determining funding to program for the next 4 years. This may be aggressive given the new administration in Washington and the lack of full-year appropriation bills, and will be monitored closely.
Competitive/One-time operating revenue is projected to increase only slightly over the next ten-year period.
The overall farebox recovery ratio will remain at approximately 27%-28% during the ten-year forecast period, based on the current assumptions.
Operating Expenses
Total hours of service has declined this year with the discontinuation of Route 200, with the exception of the addition of Route 82, which is a one run into San Francisco on weeknights, and for the Mare Island Pilot program. No additional hours of service are assumed for the next 10 years under our current funding availability.
A reduction in maintenance costs of 10% is anticipated in FY 2018-19 due to the completion of the new maintenance facility and the use of more efficient CNG and electric buses. Staff intends to either put the transit contract out to bid or renegotiate the option year rates with our current contractor.
An inflation factor of 3% was assumed for other operating costs, with the exception ofthe contracted transit service cost, which will increase by 4% per year until this contract expires on June 30, 2017. There are 2 one-year extension options which will also increase costs by 4% annually unless we renegotiate the contract.
Capital Revenue
A total of $46 million in capital revenue is projected over the ten-year forecast period. Ongoing annual sources, including TDA and FTA funds, as well as the remaining
Proposition 1B PTMISEA and California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) Funds (the program has ended and no new funding is available under this program), will be utilized primarily to fund fleet replacement costs and CNG facility expenses. 104
Ongoing funding from the State’s Low Carbon Transportation Operations Project (LCTOP) is expected to continue; however, the annual allocation has fluctuated dramatically and has dropped significantly, making this an unreliable revenue source at the current time. The program is being challenged in the Courts but the appeals court ruled this week that the program is legal. We will continue to monitor the situation.
Anticipated competitive STIC funding from FTA and AB 664 Regional Grant Funds has been included with an inflation factor.
Competitive one-time grants are not included, but Staff will be aggressively pursuing competitive grants and positioning the Agency so that we are ready to take on projects if the funding is awarded.
Capital Expenses
Total capital expenditures over the ten-year forecast period total $44.7 million. Ongoing capital needs include vehicle maintenance and equipment costs, funding to
address maintenance needs throughout the system, technology upgrades, fleet replacement costs, including the Solano Express fleet, paratransit vans, electric buses for the local fixed route, and support vehicles.
One-time capital projects anticipated over the next ten-year period include the completion of a CNG fueling facility ($4.7 million total), enhanced system security equipment ($3.7 million), continued bus branding efforts ($0.4 million), purchase of software to improve financial and vehicle maintenance reporting capabilities ($0.2 million), electrical upgrades and charging stations to support the expanded use of electric buses ($0.4 million), and funding for possible bus yard expansion and major facility upgrade costs ($1.0 million).
Fare Analysis
The SolTrans Fare Policy, which was adopted by the Board of Directors on December 17, 2015, states that the need to consider fare adjustments should be done annually, concurrent with the development of the annual budget and financial projections. The policy also states that an analysis of SolTrans’ fare structure and fare revenue projections should be completed at least every three years, and presented to the Board of Directors with the draft budget, with the stated goal of incremental fare adjustments on a gradual basis to avoid the need for significant increases in any one year. The policy also identifies the circumstances under which the Board will consider a fare increase as the projected or actual failure to meet the required farebox recovery ratio,failure to meet operating obligations, or the failure to maintain the Board-approved operating reserve level.
Based upon the assumptions included in the Ten-Year Financial Forecast as identified above, it is anticipated that the Agency’s current fare structure will be insufficient after the next fiscal year. An adjustment to fare revenue of 5% is forecasted for FY 2018-19, with potentially two additional increases of the same magnitude projected after each three-year period. Increases of these approximate amounts will be necessary to maintain a positive net operating position and also to maintain the required operating reserve level. Staff will continue to closely monitor current and projected future revenue and expenditures, and will analyze the impact of adjusting fares in 2018 and return to the Board with a recommendation by July 2017.
Summary of 10-Year Budget Outlook
The 10-Year Budget Outlook shows the following, given the aforementioned assumptions and inputs:
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Sufficient funding will be available through annual formula allocations to meet annual operating needs and set aside funding for capital projects, and for the 15% operating reserve.
The TDA savings identified in the Capital Fund will fill the revenue gaps in those years where annual formula allocations may be insufficient for meeting combined capital and operating needs for at least the next 6 years.
By the end of FY 2023-24, the Capital Fund will have insufficient funding for replacing the full fleet of local buses that will have exceeded their 12-year useful lives by then. (Note: Engine rebuilds, scheduled for FY 2016-17 through FY 2018-19 will extend the lives of these buses a few more years, but they may contribute to higher maintenance costs.)
Staff will need to pursue competitive grant funds aggressively, in an effort to obtain funding for future capital needs.
Issues of Concern over the Next 10 Years
The FAST Act passed by Congress in December 2015 has given us 5 years of guaranteed federal funding. However, after 5 years, federal funding becomes uncertain. The new federal administration has unknown priorities and the amount of future funding for transit is very uncertain. Additionally, the lack of annual appropriations makes access to our funds limited, and may keep federal funding levels flat for the next few years.
Funds for the remaining $4 million needed to fully replace the Solano Express fleet has yet to be identified. Due to the uncertainty, SolTrans is assuming they may have to cover $2 million of this shortfall and has built that into the budget.
No replacement funding for the expiring Proposition 1B PTMISEA funds.
Aging, Local Fixed Route Fleet: Local fixed route buses (model year 2011) will need to be replaced between FY 2023-24 and FY 2026-27, and current projections show insufficient funding to replace 13 of 24 buses.
Under the current funding conditions, SolTrans will not be able to expand service, not only due to insufficient operating funds, but because we do not have funding to replace our fleetnor the funds to purchase additional buses for new service.
Opportunities Over the Next 10 Years
Given the forty (40) buses expected to be replaced over the next 10 years, the estimated savings to SolTrans will be approximately $4 million (capital and operating savings combined).
The recent (and any future) system expansion may be able to increase operational efficiencies, improve system performance and ridership. In doing so, the Agency’s opportunities to obtain performance-based grant funds may be greater.
The State’s Cap-and-Trade Program may provide opportunities for additional funding.
Increased funding opportunities may become available at the Curtola PNR building through the lease of vending space and advertising.
Fare increases or special fare programs (i.e., discounts for low-income individuals not currently using transit) could generate additional revenue to expand service.
Through annual budget savings and Staff’s effectiveness at competing for annual grant awards, we may be able to grow the reserve for bus replacements.
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FISCAL IMPACT:
The 10-Year Budget Outlook provides a framework through which the fiscal strength of the Agency can be assessed over an extended period of time. Through ongoing assessments of the Agency’s financial strength, using a set of assumptions, as directed by the Board of Directors, the Agency has the opportunity to plan more effectively to meet its future needs, as well as totake the appropriate actions in a timely manner to ensure that the system continues to be sustainable.
In addition, the 10-Year Budget Outlook serves as a good starting point for building the annual budget, as it allows Staff to gauge, to the greatest extent possible, any potential impacts to the Agency caused by fiscal decisions made in any given year.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 2 - Optimize fiscal health and long-term sustainability; Objective C - Strategically align financial resources with operational and capital priorities.
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide feedback on the Budget Outlook through FY 2026-27.
Attachment:A. SolTrans 10-Year Financial Forecast
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ATTACHMENT AAgenda Item 9B
TEN YEAR FINANCIAL FORECAST (THROUGH FY 2027)
FISCAL YEAR: FY 2016‐17 PROJECTED
FY 2017‐18 FORECAST
FY 2018‐19 FORECAST
FY 2019‐20 FORECAST
FY 2020‐21 FORECAST
FY 2021‐22 FORECAST
FY 2022‐23 FORECAST
FY 2023‐24 FORECAST
FY 2024‐25 FORECAST
FY 2025‐26 FORECAST
FY 2026‐27 FORECAST
TEN YEAR TOTAL
OPERATING REVENUE 15,250,924$ 15,010,556$ 14,785,220$ 15,451,397$ 15,701,526$ 16,138,331$ 16,410,169$ 16,840,014$ 17,294,835$ 17,587,214$ 17,848,950$ 163,068,212$
OPERATING EXPENSES 13,501,030$ 14,488,553$ 14,258,819$ 14,689,067$ 15,132,945$ 15,590,906$ 16,063,420$ 16,550,972$ 17,054,065$ 17,488,218$ 17,936,844$ 159,253,809$
NET OPERATING REVENUE 1,749,894$ 522,003$ 526,401$ 762,330$ 568,581$ 547,425$ 346,749$ 289,042$ 240,771$ 98,996$ (87,894)$ 3,814,403$
TRANSFER TO OPERATING RESERVE (1) 225,154$ 148,128$ ‐$ 64,537$ 66,582$ 68,694$ 70,877$ 73,133$ 75,464$ 65,123$ 67,294$ 699,832$
NET OPERATING REVENUE AVAILABLE FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS
1,524,740$ 373,875$ 526,401$ 697,792$ 501,999$ 478,731$ 275,872$ 215,909$ 165,307$ 33,873$ (155,188)$ 3,114,571$
TDA RESERVE FOR CAPITAL 7,460,000$ 8,984,740$ 8,473,553$ 7,978,015$ 10,290,730$ 12,093,193$ 12,840,846$ 13,740,842$ 7,383,931$ (4,849,437)$ (4,962,438)$ $ 71,973,977
TRANSFER FROM OPERATING $ 1,524,740 $ 373,875 $ 526,401 $ 697,792 $ 501,999 $ 478,731 $ 275,872 $ 215,909 $ 165,307 $ 33,873 $ (155,188) $ 3,114,571
CAPITAL PROJECT REVENUE BEFORE TDA $ 9,642,357 $ 7,532,400 $ 5,210,505 $ 2,801,170 $ 2,231,484 $ 1,198,999 $ 1,221,970 $ 2,381,639 $ 2,469,267 $ 1,703,612 $ 1,732,534 $ 28,483,581
CAPITAL PROJECT EXPENSES 9,642,357$ 8,417,461$ 6,232,443$ 1,186,248$ 931,020$ 930,077$ 597,846$ 8,954,460$ 14,867,941$ 1,850,486$ 764,217$ $ 44,732,201
NET TDA FUNDS AVAILABLE (NEEDED) FOR CAPITAL
8,984,740$ 8,473,553$ 7,978,015$ 10,290,730$ 12,093,193$ 12,840,846$ 13,740,842$ 7,383,931$ (4,849,437)$ (4,962,438)$ (4,149,309)$ $ 58,839,928
TOTAL SOLTRANS REVENUE 24,893,281$ 22,542,956$ 19,995,725$ 18,252,567$ 17,933,009$ 17,337,331$ 17,632,139$ 19,221,654$ 19,764,102$ 19,290,826$ 19,581,484$ $ 191,551,793
TOTAL SOLTRANS EXPENSES 23,368,541$ 23,054,143$ 20,491,262$ 15,939,852$ 16,130,546$ 16,589,678$ 16,732,143$ 25,578,565$ 31,997,470$ 19,403,827$ 18,768,356$ $ 204,685,842
ANNUAL SURPLUS/(SHORTFALL‐Use of available TDA Reserve)
1,524,740$ (511,186)$ (495,538)$ 2,312,715$ 1,802,463$ 747,653$ 899,996$ (6,356,911)$ (12,233,368)$ (113,001)$ 813,128$ $ (13,134,049)
OPERATING RESERVE (15% of Annual Operating Budget)
1,962,639$ 2,110,767$ 2,110,767$ 2,175,305$ 2,241,886$ 2,310,581$ 2,381,458$ 2,454,590$ 2,530,054$ 2,595,177$ 2,662,471$
FOOTNOTES
(1) Amounts of TDA funds are set aside annually to maintain an operating reserve that is equal to 15% of each year's projected, annual operating expenses.
SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT (SOLTRANS)
OPERATING BUDGET
CAPITAL PROJECT BUDGET
SUMMARY OF PROJECTIONS
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SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT (SOLTRANS) TEN YEAR FINANCIAL FORECASTOPERATING REVENUE AND EXPENSE SUMMARY
FY 2016‐17 PROJECTED
FY 2017‐18 FORECAST
FY 2018‐19 FORECAST
FY 2019‐20 FORECAST
FY 2020‐21 FORECAST
FY 2021‐22 FORECAST
FY 2022‐23 FORECAST
FY 2023‐24 FORECAST
FY 2024‐25 FORECAST
FY 2025‐26 FORECAST
FY 2026‐27 FORECAST
TEN YEAR TOTAL
OPERATING REVENUEAnnual Sources
Farebox Revenue 3,539,747$ 3,540,497$ 3,750,872$ 3,782,869$ 3,820,698$ 4,047,908$ 4,122,462$ 4,163,687$ 4,411,529$ 4,492,820$ 4,537,748$ 40,671,090$ Taxi Scrip 80,000$ 80,800$ 81,608$ 82,424$ 83,248$ 84,081$ 84,922$ 85,771$ 86,629$ 87,495$ 88,370$ 845,347$
Other Local Revenue 215,000$ 245,000$ 270,250$ 286,250$ 286,550$ 303,063$ 303,413$ 316,169$ 316,526$ 316,887$ 316,887$ 2,960,994$ Formula Funds 10,733,808$ 10,692,159$ 10,174,289$ 10,776,431$ 10,980,241$ 11,164,979$ 11,353,412$ 11,545,614$ 11,741,659$ 11,941,625$ 12,145,591$ 112,516,001$ Other Revenue 10,000$ 10,100$ 10,201$ 10,303$ 10,406$ 10,510$ 10,615$ 185,721$ 187,579$ 189,454$ 193,243$ 818,133$
Subtotal‐Annual Sources: 14,578,555$ 14,568,556$ 14,287,220$ 14,938,277$ 15,181,143$ 15,610,541$ 15,874,824$ 16,296,962$ 16,743,921$ 17,028,281$ 17,281,839$ 157,811,564$
Competitive/One‐Time Sources 672,369$ 442,000$ 498,000$ 513,120$ 520,382$ 527,790$ 535,346$ 543,053$ 550,914$ 558,932$ 567,111$ 4,689,537$
TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE 15,250,924$ 15,010,556$ 14,785,220$ 15,451,397$ 15,701,526$ 16,138,331$ 16,410,169$ 16,840,014$ 17,294,835$ 17,587,214$ 17,848,950$ 145,219,262$
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 13,501,030$ 14,488,553$ 14,258,819$ 14,689,067$ 15,132,945$ 15,590,906$ 16,063,420$ 16,550,972$ 17,054,065$ 17,488,218$ 17,936,844$ 141,316,964$
NET OPERATING REVENUE 1,749,894$ 522,003$ 526,401$ 762,330$ 568,581$ 547,425$ 346,749$ 289,042$ 240,771$ 98,996$ (87,894)$ 3,902,297$
TDA CARRYOVER HELD BY SOLTRANS 1,300,000$ TDA CARRYOVER HELD BY MTC 6,160,000$
INCREASE TO OPERATING RESERVES (1) 225,154$ 148,128$ ‐$ 64,537$ 66,582$ 68,694$ 70,877$ 73,133$ 75,464$ 65,123$ 67,294$ 632,538$
NET REVENUE AVAILABLE FOR CAPITAL PROJECTS/RESERVE
8,984,740$ 8,473,553$ 8,778,016$ 9,475,809$ 9,977,808$ 10,456,539$ 10,732,411$ 10,948,320$ 11,113,627$ 11,147,500$ 10,992,312$ 3,269,759$
OVERALL FAREBOX RECOVERY RATIO 28.4% 26.7% 28.8% 28.3% 27.7% 28.4% 28.1% 27.6% 28.2% 28.0% 27.6%
(1) 15% of Annual Operating Expenditures set aside annually to maintain operating reserve
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SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT (SOLTRANS) TEN YEAR FINANCIAL FORECASTCAPITAL PROJECT REVENUE AND EXPENSE SUMMARY
FY 2016‐17 BUDGET
FY 2017‐18 FORECAST
FY 2018‐19 FORECAST
FY 2019‐20 FORECAST
FY 2020‐21 FORECAST
FY 2021‐22 FORECAST
FY 2022‐23 FORECAST
FY 2023‐24 FORECAST
FY 2024‐25 FORECAST
FY 2025‐26 FORECAST
FY 2026‐27 FORECAST
TEN YEAR TOTAL
CAPITAL PROJECT REVENUEAnnual Sources 7,509,594$ 7,470,280$ 3,880,396$ 1,671,156$ 1,099,970$ 1,120,969$ 1,142,379$ 1,164,207$ 1,186,461$ 1,209,150$ 1,232,282$ 21,177,251$
Competitive/One‐Time Sources 2,132,763$ 947,181$ 1,552,047$ 1,130,014$ 1,131,514$ 78,030$ 79,591$ 1,217,432$ 1,282,806$ 494,462$ 500,251$ 8,413,329$
TOTAL CAPITAL PROJECT REVENUE 9,642,357$ 8,417,461$ 5,432,443$ 2,801,170$ 2,231,484$ 1,198,999$ 1,221,970$ 2,381,639$ 2,469,267$ 1,703,612$ 1,732,534$ 29,590,580$
CAPITAL PROJECT EXPENSES
On‐Going/Annual Capital Needs 6,797,357$ 5,603,461$ 5,782,443$ 821,964$ 443,408$ 860,468$ 597,846$ 8,204,460$ 13,617,941$ 1,100,486$ 514,217$ 37,546,696$
"One‐time" Capital Projects 2,845,000$ 2,814,000$ 450,000$ 364,284$ 487,612$ 69,609$ ‐$ 750,000$ 1,250,000$ 750,000$ 250,000$ 7,185,505$
TOTAL CAPITAL PROJECT EXPENSES 9,642,357$ 8,417,461$ 6,232,443$ 1,186,248$ 931,020$ 930,077$ 597,846$ 8,954,460$ 14,867,941$ 1,850,486$ 764,217$ 44,732,201$
TDA Article IV (Operating Reserve)‐TO MEET FULL CAPITAL NEEDS
‐$ (0)$ (800,000)$ 1,614,922$ 1,300,464$ 268,922$ 624,124$ (6,572,821)$ (12,398,674)$ (146,874)$ 968,317$ (15,141,621)$
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BUDGET OUTLOOK
THROUGH FY 2026-27
Presented to: SolTrans Board of
Directors
on April 20, 2017
By: Kristina Botsford, Finance &
Administrative Manager
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BUDGET OVERVIEW ELEMENTS
Budget Outlook: FY 2018 – FY 2027
Required by SolTrans’ Budget Policy
Outlines a basic strategy for investing projected
revenues
Highlights fiscal impacts from investment decisions
Good foundation for annual budget process
Helps us plan for large capital investments for
maintaining the system in a state of good repair,
primarily vehicle replacements
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SUMMARY OF RESULTS
Operations will be fully funded but contracted
transit services expense must be lowered
No funds for major capital projects outside of bus
replacements
10 year shortfall of $13 Million - $11M needed for
local bus replacement and $2M of unknown funding
for Solano Express Bus replacement
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BUDGET OUTLOOK: PROJECTED OUTCOMES
FOR OPERATIONS EXPENSES
Operating expenses are rising faster than projected revenues
Transit service contract has 4% automatic escalation factor
Difficult to predict future fuel prices
No fixed route expansion included
SolTrans planning staff has a plan for schedule optimization and
adjustment
The agency will maintain a 15% operating reserve
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BUDGET OUTLOOK: PROJECTED OUTCOMES
FOR OPERATIONS REVENUE
Fare increases of 5% have been included every 3 years starting in
FY 2018-19
Ridership has fallen as compared to the last 4 years but farebox
revenue is holding flat
Curtola Park & Ride parking fee increases of 2% have been
included every 2 years starting in FY 2019-20.
Starting a new 3 year funding cycle for State Transit Assistance
Lifeline Funds and FTA 5307 JARC funds – Awards not made until
middle of next FY
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BUDGET OUTLOOK: PROJECTED OUTCOMES
FOR CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
Fleet and facilities will be maintained in a state of good repair.
Intercity Fleet will be fully replaced by 2019 with CNG buses.
Local Fleet will be maintained with engine replacements
scheduled for most buses in 2017-18 with remainder in the
next fiscal year
Budgeted for Electrical infrastructure needed to support multiple
electric buses
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BUDGET OUTLOOK: PROJECTED OUTCOMES
FOR CAPITAL EXPENDITURES (CONT’D)
Budgeted for $1.9M in facility improvements/expansion over the
next 6 years
Budgeted for $1M in capital improvements for Curtola starting in
FY 2023-24 over a 4 year period
Budgeted for equipment replacement as we replace the local
buses – fareboxes, security cameras & related equipment, etc.
At this time, replacements for 11 local fixed route buses (model
year 2011) are projected to be unfunded by FY 2023-24.
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BUDGET OUTLOOK: ISSUES OF CONCERN
Expiration of Proposition 1B (10-Year State Transportation Bond) for
funding capital projects and security equipment
FAST Act passed by Congress only for 5 years, however budget outlook
assumes the 2016-17 level of federal funding to increase 1.5% each year
continuing for next 10 years – This may be too aggressive
Operating reserve only 15% (Approximately 2 months of expenses) -
need to consider increasing this based on the current political climate –
SolTrans uses federal funding for about 20-25% of its operating budget
Operating Expenses rising faster than available operating revenue
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BUDGET OUTLOOK: ISSUES OF
CONCERN, CONTINUED
No funding for fleet expansion—impacts our ability to increase
service levels as population grows and transit demand increases.
No additional operating funds projected that would allow for any
service expansion
Fuel Prices – need to closely monitor cost of all fuel types. The
projected cost savings from switch to CNG and Electric buses
should offset major increases in diesel fuel long-term
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BUDGET OUTLOOK: OPPORTUNITIES
Operational savings through CNG conversion and addition of
electric vehicles to fleet
Strategic changes in service levels & adjustments to operational
policies can improve performance & competitiveness for grant
funds, especially performance-based funds
Cap-and-Trade Program – potential for discretionary grants
and/or increase in allocations for formula funds
Effectiveness of staff in competing for discretionary grants will
allow the agency to grow the capital reserve and minimize the
number of unfunded bus replacements in the future.
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AGENDA ITEM 9CBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: KRISTINA BOTSFORD, FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION MANAGER
SUBJECT: FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2017-18 PROPOSED OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET
ACTION: MOTION
ISSUE:
The FY 2017-18 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget is being presented to the SolTrans Board of Directors for feedback, with the final proposed budget presented for adoption on May 18, 2017.
DISCUSSION:
SolTrans’ budgets for operations fall under three modes: 1) Fixed Route Bus Service, 2) Demand Response, which includes Paratransit Service in Vallejo, and General Public Dial-a-Ride (GP DAR) in Benicia, and 3) the Local Taxi Scrip Program. Direct expenses are budgeted for each mode. The remaining overhead expenses are allocated to each mode, based on the percentage of direct costs and administrative time spent on each mode. The same allocation has been used since the Agency began operations in July 2011, and is 86% to Fixed Route, 12%-14% to Demand Response, and 0%-2% to the Taxi Scrip Program, depending on the type of expense being allocated.
SolTrans’ operating budget has three main cost drivers, which represent 84% of the budgeted costs, and they are as follows, with the approximate portion of the total budget:
Contracted Transit Services with National Express Transit (NEXT) – 62%
Fuel – 10%
Salaries and Benefits – 12%
FY 2017-18 OPERATING BUDGET SUMMARY:
The total FY 2017-18 Operating Budget (Attachment A) is being proposed at $14,480,000(the prior year (PY) approved budget was $14,030,000), and is broken out per mode, as follows:
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Table 1
Mode FY 17-18 Proposed Budget
Fixed Route $12,395,377
Paratransit / GP DAR $1,825,054
Taxi Scrip $259,570
Total $14,480,000
Combined Farebox Recovery Rate
26.1%
Transit Service Revenue Hours:
SolTrans discontinued the Route 200 supplemental ferry service on December 31, 2016, and at the same time started Route 82, which is one weeknight roundtrip from the El Cerrito del Norte BART station to the San Francisco Transbay Terminal and back. The Mare Island Pilot Route 9 runs through May 28, 2017, and it will be determined at the May Board meeting whether or not to continue this route. Projected fixed route hours include a full year of service changes made during FY 2016-17. Staff is compiling a list of possible service initiatives totaling 5,500 annual hours for future consideration, but no additional hours have been included in this proposed budget.
Paratransit and GP DAR hours have been lowered slightly to reflect current trends in ridership as more paratransit riders opt to use fixed route service. Projected farebox revenues and proposed operating costs are based on the following number of revenue service hours:
Fixed Route – 96,300 hours (6,080 hours less than the PY budget)
Paratransit – 10,200 hours (500 hours lower than the PY budget)
GP DAR – 2,900 hours (100 hours lower than the PY budget)
Key Factors Driving Budget Increase:
The total budget of $14,480,000 is a $450,000 (3%) increase over the current year budget, and is being driven by three major factors:
Salaries and Benefits for permanent and temporary employees are increasing by $130,000,to reflect a full year salary and benefits from hiring a General Services Manager last September and the Community and External Affairs Officer expected to be hired this Spring, as well as proposed cost of living adjustments (COLA) and merit increases. The budget assumes a new Executive Director will be hired by August 15, 2017.
Fuel – Until January 2017, SolTrans used only diesel and unleaded fuel. In January 2017, SolTrans received its first 6 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, with 4 more expected in the middle of next fiscal year. These buses need to be fueled offsite, with fuel being consumed for the deadhead miles to and from the fueling facility in American Canyon. SolTrans is constructing an on-site fueling facility that is expected to be operational by September 2017. In addition to the cost of the natural gas, SolTrans will incur additional electrical costs to power the generators needed to compress the natural gas. SolTrans also 124
received its first 2 electric buses in February 2017. These buses will be charged daily at the operating and maintenance facility.
Estimating fuel costs is challenging due to the lack of real cost data. The electric buses are not yet in service and the CNG buses have just been deployed on a rolling basis; therefore, a full month of cost is not available at this time. Staff has used known costs and industry benchmarks to estimate the total cost of fuel, keeping in mind that the use of diesel fuel will decrease. As actual cost data becomes available, Staff will revise the fuel cost for the final proposed budget. If actuals differ from the final budget by 10% or more, Staff will come back to the Board with a proposed budget adjustment.
Fuel is being budgeted at $1,500,000. The prior budget was $1,615,000 but current year actuals are projected to be $1,250,000 due to diesel and unleaded fuel prices remaining low. This is a decrease in the overall budget of $115,000.
Reimbursement from the Water Emergency Transportation Authority (WETA) – As discussed above, the Route 200 supplemental ferry service has been discontinued. The prior year budget included a reimbursement from WETA of $450,000 that will no longer be realized. Part of the reimbursement covered SolTrans’ fixed overhead operational costs that will still need to be included in expenses and funded with other sources.
Other Assumptions are reflected as follows:
Transit Service Contract – The contracted fixed expenses and variable rates for hours of revenue service operated escalate each year, increasing the total operating contract costs by $166,000, offset by a reduction in service hours, equating to $158,000, netting an increase inexpense associated with the transit service contract of approximately $7,000.
Marketing and Advertising – The budget has been decreased by $83,000 due to the hiring of a Community and External Affairs Officer, who can handle many of the tasks that were previously outsourced to a local public relations firm.
Local Taxi Contracted Services – The budget has been decreased by $20,000 to reflect actual taxi scrip sales and the associated taxi service costs.
Operating Revenue Assumptions:
Fixed Route
Farebox revenue budget is proposed to be the same as current year projected actuals due to the drop in ridership.
SolTrans will use FTA Section 5307 funds for operations, to the full extent possible, and State Transit Assistance Funds (STAF), with TDA funds used to fund operations as a “last resort.”
The past 3 years, SolTrans received approximately $670,000 annually in 5307 JARC and STAF Lifeline funds but this funding ends June 30, 2017. The call for projects will be this Spring and the amount of new funding is unknown. To be conservative, SolTrans will budget to receive $300,000 next year in STAF Lifeline and JARC and will budget to use TDA to replace the remainder of the funding. If additional funding becomes available during the year, the JARC and STAF funds will be used first before TDA funds.
Parking revenue from the Curtola Park and Ride Hub is being kept flat based on current year actual projections. 125
Paratransit/GP DAR Farebox revenue is budgeted to decrease based on current year projections. This aligns with
the lower number of revenue hours that the service operates due to lower ridership as Paratransit riders are encouraged to take fixed route when they are able, at a much lower fare.
Taxi Scrip Program Local Taxi Scrip sales have been budgeted to decrease in line with current-year actual
projections.
Overall, revenue will need to be monitored closely due to the fact that we have limited options for operating revenue. We will be using the maximum amount of TDA funds available to us for the year to cover the budget. Staff will pursue all options for obtaining competitive grants,allowing us to free up TDA in the capital budget to be used for operations.
Farebox Recovery Rate:
The combined farebox recovery rate (all modes combined) is budgeted at 26.1%. This is 0.2% higher than the PY budget and 1.9% lower than the projected actuals for the current year.
FY 2017-18 CAPITAL BUDGET SUMMARY:
The total FY 2017-18 Proposed Capital Budget is $5,914,805. This amount reflects new budget and revenue requests only in FY 2017-18. However, Staff will be requesting that the Board authorize the carryover of capital funds from FY 2016-17, in order to complete ongoing projects. (Please see Attachment B for full details on the proposed capital budget and project descriptions.)
The major additions to the Proposed Capital Budget are as follows:
Vehicle Maintenance and Equipment – SolTrans is in the process of replacing engines on the hybrid fleet that we use for local routes. The current year budgeted for 16 engine replacements and we need to do 3 more in the next fiscal year at a cost of $26,000 each. We have also budgeted $100,000 for the replacement of the DPIM hybrid gate component for the Gilligs. This component costs approximately $20,000 and needs to be replaced as needed as they wear out.
Facilities Maintenance and Equipment – We are requesting $440,000 for needed equipment to maintain the fleet, a fuel management and fleet maintenance software system, and general upgrades to the facility. The funds are also needed to add to the bus wash budget to ensure we have enough funds to cover the cost of the replacement that is being put out for bid this month. Additionally, funds are needed to replace bus shelters or add amenities to existing shelters.
Vehicles – SolTrans continues to replace the diesel commuter fleet with CNG buses. We need to budget funds for the remaining buses that we will be replacing next year. Additionally, we are budgeting for replacement of 3 paratransit cutaways.
All new budget requests listed above were included in the 10-year budget outlook last year, as well as in the updated outlook.
126
FISCAL IMPACT:
The proposed FY 2017-18 Operating Budget is $14,480,000, and the proposed Capital Budget is $5,914,805. The combined Budget is $20,724,805, plus carryover from the prior year capital budget, and it is fully funded through the sources outlined in Attachments A and B. Additionally,the proposed operating budget will be financed significantly with farebox revenue and federal grant sources. In doing so, SolTrans can fund capital projects with more flexible and less restrictive state grant funds, as well as save its TDA funds in reserve. The TDA funds can, therefore, accrue interest and generate additional funding for the Agency.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 2 - Optimize the financial health of SolTrans, as required for providing services that meet the needs of the citizens of the Cities of Benicia and Vallejo; Objective C - Strategically align financial resources with operational and capital priorities; Strategy (i) - Develop operations and capital priorities and program federal, state, regional and local funds according to Board-approved priorities, and (ii) Complete the annual Operating & Capital Budget and Mid-Year Budget Adjustment.
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide feedback on the FY 2017-18 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget Assumptions and Framework.
Attachments:A. FY 2017-18 Proposed Operating Revenue and Expense by ModeB. FY 2017-18 Proposed Capital Budget
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SolTrans Attachment A
Operating Revenue by Mode Agenda Item 9C
PAGE 1 OF 2
FY 15‐16 FY 17‐18
Actuals Adopted Budget
Projected Actuals
Approved Budget
Fixed Route RevenueFarebox Revenue 3,483,041$ 3,448,386$ 3,464,747$ 3,465,000$ FTA Section 5307 ‐ Operating Assistance 2,366,082 2,800,000 2,500,000 2,800,000 FTA Section 5307 ‐ JARC 140,014 142,254 142,254 144,530 FTA Section 5311 Non‐Urbanized Area 40,000 ‐ ‐ ‐ STAF ‐ Lifeline 519,934 530,115 530,115 300,000 Transportation Development Act (TDA) 2,108,862 3,162,507 3,063,351 3,909,506 Regional Measure 2 (RM‐2) 1,407,338 1,526,340 1,526,340 1,526,340 Curtola Parking Fee Revenue 66,157 175,000 175,000 175,000 Other/Interest 66,237 100,000 75,000 75,000 Subtotal Fixed Route Revenue 10,197,665 11,884,602 11,476,807 12,395,377
Paratransit (Demand Response) RevenueFTA Section 5307 10% ADA set‐aside 302,177 391,579 391,579 290,178 TDA 1,041,950 1,197,729 1,107,096 1,262,876 STAF ‐ Operating Assistance 87,040 200,000 200,000 217,000 Farebox Revenue 53,657 75,000 56,571 55,000 Subtotal Paratransit Revenue 1,484,824 1,864,308 1,755,246 1,825,054
Taxi Scrip RevenueTaxi Scrip ‐ Local 85,010 100,000 80,000 80,000 TDA 104,118 181,090 179,840 179,570 Subtotal Taxi Scrip Revenue 189,128 281,090 259,840 259,570
FAREBOX & PARKING REVENUE 3,687,865 3,798,386 3,776,318 3,775,000 FUNDING SOURCE REVENUE 8,183,752 10,231,614 9,715,575 10,705,000
Total Revenue 11,871,616$ 14,030,000$ 13,491,893$ 14,480,000$
Fixed Route Farebox Recovery 34.5% 29.0% 30.2% 28.0%Demand Response Farebox Recovery 3.4% 4.0% 3.2% 3.0%
Overall Farebox Recovery 31.1% 25.8% 28.0% 26.1%
FY 16‐17
129
SolTrans Attachment A
Operating Expenses by Mode Agenda Item 9CPAGE 2 OF 2
A B C D D ‐ B D ‐ C
FY 15‐16 FY 17‐18
Actuals Adopted Budget
Projected Actuals
Approved Budget
CY Budget vs. Proposed Budget
CY projected Actuals vs. Proposed budget
Fixed Route ExpensesTransit Service Contract 7,127,250$ 7,683,980$ 7,535,284$ 7,712,442$ 28,462$ 177,158$ Security 176,689 260,000 180,154 185,000 (75,000) 4,846 Reimbursement From WETA (510,427) (450,000) (329,005) ‐ 450,000 329,005 Fuel 836,662 1,425,000 1,110,000 1,330,000 (95,000) 220,000 Facility and Vehicle Maintenance 141,254 360,127 397,608 430,744 70,617 33,136 Professional Services 368,840 348,730 411,775 379,088 30,358 (32,687) Advertising & Marketing 209,492 251,120 203,510 167,700 (83,420) (35,810) Salaries and Benefits 1,006,256 1,359,042 1,279,900 1,490,595 131,553 210,695 Accounting, Auditing & Legal 158,517 133,300 124,459 130,720 (2,580) 6,261 General Administration 584,059 513,303 563,121 569,088 55,785 5,968 Subtotal Fixed Route Expenses 10,098,592$ 11,884,602$ 11,476,807$ 12,395,377$ 510,776$ 918,572$
Paratransit (Demand Response) ExpensesTransit Service Contract 1,193,884 1,266,020 1,214,206 1,244,278 (21,742) 30,072 Fuel 106,122 190,000 130,000 170,000 (20,000) 40,000 Salaries and Benefits 150,248 221,012 220,800 219,681 (1,331) (1,119) General Administration 129,156 187,276 190,242 191,095 3,819 853 Subtotal Paratransit Expenses 1,579,410$ 1,864,308$ 1,755,246$ 1,825,054$ (39,254)$ 69,806$
Taxi Scrip ExpensesScrip ‐ Local 158,951 180,000 160,000 160,000 (20,000) ‐ Salaries and Benefits 25,040 64,946 64,300 64,724 (222) 424 General Administration 12,072 36,144 35,540 34,846 (1,298) (695) Subtotal Taxi Scrip Expenses 196,063 281,090 259,840 259,570 (21,520) (271)
Total Expenses 11,874,065$ 14,030,000$ 13,491,894$ 14,480,000$ 450,001$ 988,107$
Net Income (Expense) ‐$ ‐$ (0)$ ‐$
FY 16‐17
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ATTACHMENT B
Agenda Item 9C
NEW REQUESTS
# Project Amount
1 Vehicle Maintenance & Equipment 353,000$
2 Facility Maintenance & Equipment & Bus Wash 240,000$
3 Information Technology 100,000$
4 Vehicles 5,221,805$
5 Branding (Bus Decals, Signage) ‐$
6 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Fueling Facility ‐$
TOTAL: 5,914,805$
CAPITAL PROJECT DESCRIPTIONS
Vehicles ‐ For FY 17‐18 we will receive 4 Solano Express CNG buses, order 6 more, add 1 electric bus to our existing 2
electric buses for our local fleet, and we will replace 3 paratransit buses, in addition to the 4 budgeted for in FY 16‐17.
CARRYOVER PROJECTS
Branding ‐ Continued branding of the new buses being purchased as well as branding our local fleet.
CNG Fueling Facility ‐ Construction of a CNG Fueling Facility at the O&M facility at 1850 Broadway will be continuing and
completed by August 2017.
FY 2017‐18 PROPOSED CAPITAL BUDGET
Vehicle Maintenance & Equipment ‐ Capitalized vehicle maintenance (i.e. engine rebuilds, transmissions, differentials)
and major equipment needed to maintain vehicles. For FY 17‐18 we need to continue to rebuild engines for 15 Gillig
Buses from our local fixed route fleet (most of this was budgetd for in FY 16‐17 and will be carried over). We also expect
to replace or rehab the components in the hybrid power module in several of the buses in the local fleet and replace
fareboxes on our paratransit fleet.
Facility Maintenance & Equipment ‐ Capitalized facility maintenance (i.e. upgraded electrical capacity), bus shelters, and
major equipment needed to maintain facilities. Also an additional $50,000 for the new bus wash in addition to the
$300,000 previously budgeted.
Information Technology ‐ All technology related equipment including servers, security cameras, AVL components, and
new software for fuel and vehicle maintenance management, as well as asset management and accounting software.
This new request is in addition to the carryover from the prior year estimated to be $75,000.
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PROPOSED FY 2017-18
OPERATING & CAPITAL BUDGET
Presented to: SolTrans Board of
Directors
on April 20, 2017
By: Kristina Botsford, Finance & Administration Manager
133
OPERATING BUDGET FRAMEWORK
Budget for 3 modes with indirect costs
generally allocated as follows:
Fixed Route – 86%
Paratransit/Dial-A-Ride – 12%
Local Taxi Scrip Program – 2%
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PROPOSED FY 2017-18 OPERATING BUDGET
VS. CURRENT YEAR
$450,000 (3%) Increase over FY 2016-17 Budget
Main Cost Drivers in Proposed Budget (% of Budget):
Transit Service Contract (62%)
Fuel (10%)
Salaries and Benefits (12%)
Collectively, these make up roughly 84% of our annual
operating budget.
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TRANSIT SERVICE CONTRACT
Proposed Budget $8,956,720 (Increase of $7,000)
62% of Proposed Operating Budget
Key Changes to Transit Service Expense Budget
Net decrease in revenue hours due to elimination of
Route 200 supplemental ferry service in Dec. 2016
($158,000)
4% increase in service contract variable rates and fixed
costs ($166,000)
136
SERVICE REVENUE HOURS
Fixed Route Proposed Budget 96,300 Hours
137
SERVICE REVENUE HOURS
Service Hours for Proposed Budget
Paratransit: 10,200
Dial-a-Ride: 2,900
16,300
15,230
13,942 13,445 13,100
-
2,000
4,000
6,000
8,000
10,000
12,000
14,000
16,000
18,000
Paratransit & Dial-a-Ride
FY 13-14 Actuals
FY 14-15 Actuals
FY 15-16 Actuals
FY 16-17 ProjectedActuals
FY 17-18 ProposedBudget
138
EMPLOYEE SALARIES/BENEFITS
BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS
Proposed Budget of $1,775,000
12% of Operating Budget
Assumes Full Year of Salaries/Benefits for 12
Board-Approved, Full-Time Employees
Allows for Potential Merit Increases and
Cost of Living Adjustment
Assumes New Executive Director Hired by
August 15th
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FUEL 10% of overall operating budget
Proposed Budget of $1,500,000
$260,000 over current year projected actuals
Key Assumptions:
Diesel Fuel consumption will decrease
Unleaded Fuel usage will be flat
Natural Gas Fuel will be purchased off-site through August and then onsite
fueling at a lower cost
Electricity will be used for 2 buses, with a 3rd bus added later in fiscal year
plus the CNG compressor
Due to several unknowns on actual cost and exact timeline, fuel costs will
need to be reassessed periodically until the CNG facility is operational for a
full quarter
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REIMBURSEMENT FROM WETA
Current Fiscal Year Budget included WETA
reimbursement of $450,000, taking budget
from $14,480,000 to $14,030,000
The reimbursement covered driver costs and
fuel expense that will no longer be needed
Reimbursement also covered overhead costs
for maintenance and Staff time that will still be
incurred
141
REVENUE COMPARISON
Farebox Revenue
25%
FTA Sec. 5307 22%
STAF 4%
RM2 11%
TDA 37%
Parking Revenue
1%
Other 0%
Proposed FY 2017-18
Farebox Revenue
27%
FTA Sec. 5307 23%
STAF 5%
RM2 11%
TDA 32%
Parking Revenue
1%
Other 1%
Projected FY 2016-17
142
Proposed Operating Budget – Overview
Mode FY 2016-17
Budget
FY 2016-17
Projected
Actuals
FY 2017-18
Proposed
Budget
Fixed Route $11,884,602 $11,476,807 $12,395,376
Paratransit (Demand
Response) $1,864,308 $ 1,755,246 $ 1,825,054
Taxi Scrip Program $ 281,090 $ 259,840 $ 259,570
Total $14,030,000 $13,491,893 $14,480,000
Farebox Recovery
Ratio* 26% 28% 26%
*Reflects farebox recovery ratio for the full system (Fixed Route + Paratransit/DAR + Taxi + Parking revenue).
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FY 2016-17 CAPITAL PROJECTS
TO BE CARRIED OVER TO FY 2017-18
Vehicles – Funding for the replacement intercity buses that
have been ordered this fiscal year and one electric bus
Facility Maintenance – New Bus Wash
Vehicle Maintenance – Funding for engine replacements on
the local fleet
Branding – Branding of new buses and the local fleet
Compressed Natural Gas Fueling Facility – Facility is being
constructed and is expected to be completed by August
2018
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FY 2017-18 NEW CAPITAL REQUESTS
Project
# Project Description
Requested
Amount
45320
Vehicle Maintenance: Engine replacements, parts, and labor,
equipment, supplies for maintaining vehicles in a State of Good
Repair (SOGR).
$353,000
45321 Facility Maintenance: Purchase of parts, equipment, labor for
maintaining facilities/bus stops in SOGR and bus stop improvements. $240,000
45312
Information Technology: Fleet maintenance and asset
management software, fuel management software, and additional
equipment as needed such as servers, security cameras, and AVL
components.
$100,000
45313 Vehicles: Additional funds for the purchase of the remaining
replacement intercity buses and replacement paratransit buses. $5,221,805
TOTAL REQUEST: $5,914,805
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FY 2017-18 PROPOSED CAPITAL FUNDING
FOR NEW REQUESTS
FUND SOURCE AMOUNT
FTA SECTION 5307 – ANNUAL FORMULA $3,240,458
FTA SECTION 5339 – FORMULA FUNDS $736,414
TDA/AB664 $1,937,933
FY 2017-18 TOTAL PROPOSED CAPITAL
FUNDING FOR NEW REQUESTS: $5,914,805
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AGENDA ITEM 10ABOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: DENNIS YBARRA, PROGRAM ANALYST II
SUBJECT: SYSTEM PERFORMANCE REPORT
ACTION: INFORMATIONAL
ISSUE:
SolTrans monitors performance data on its transit system to maintain eligibility and competitiveness for federal and state grants, which finance approximately 70 percent of the operating budget. This data is also a valuable service planning tool.
DISCUSSION:
As required by granting agencies such as the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), SolTranstracks unlinked ridership on its fixed route system as a measure of system productivity. The FTA defines Unlinked Passenger Trips as the total number of vehicle boardings, counting each boarding as a trip even if the passenger makes one or more transfers within the system. Farebox recovery is also a key performance statistic that is used by funding agencies to gauge cost efficiency. These and other key metrics reviewed each month are included as Attachment A.
Performance highlights for Fiscal Year (FY) 2016-17 through March for Fixed Route, and through December for Demand Response:
Fixed Route Ridership
Fixed route ridership was 1,060,413, which includes about 77,000 fewer boardings, or a 6.8 percent decrease from the same period in FY 2015-16. This decline must be considered against a backdrop of a statewide trend among most transit operators of modest declines in ridership. On the other hand, local and express routes are affected differently by this trend.
The SolTrans results are consistent with those of all comparable bus transit systems such as FAST, Napa, Golden Gate, Sacramento Regional Transit, Marin Transit, Santa Rosa, and AC Transit in a comparison of FY 2016-17 to date (the exception is Petaluma, which had a slight increase), with data available through January. Local ridership was compared to local service at other agencies, while express service was compared with similar operations. BART ridership fell by 1.9 percent.
Ridership on local routes, measured year over year, fell by 11 percent from the prior year. In order to compensate for any difference in numbers of weekdays and holidays in the current year-to-date period over the prior year, we also looked at a comparison of average weekday ridership. The decrease in ridership on that basis is 10 percent. We have added FY 14-15 data to the graph of local routes average weekday ridership to explore trends
147
beyond the most recent two years. For the period July-December, a three-year pattern is noticeable. FY 16-17 ridership is for most months higher than FY 14-15, or at least at par with it, while FY 15-16 represents the peak ridership of the three years. However, for the period January-March, ridership for FY 16-17 is below both FY 14-15 and FY 15-16.
Total express ridership shows a decline of 1.9 percent over the prior fiscal year. We continue to see ridership growth in Routes 78 and 80, balanced by flat to slightly decreasing ridership on Route 85. Express Route 200 (complimentary bus service to theferry service between Vallejo to San Francisco) was discontinued as of January 2, 2017. Route 200 monthly ridership has been in the 4,600 range. Year over year comparisons for express routes as a whole will reflect the loss of these passengers, pulling the year to date totals through March downward by roughly 1 percent for the July-March period. The decline in express ridership attributable solely to the discontinuation of Route 200 service will be somewhat greater in future reports as the number of months compared year over year increases.
Staff is actively looking to explain the reason(s) for the decline in local ridership so that remedial action can be taken if necessary. Staff is looking further at ridership on other comparable systems in Northern California, and macroeconomic regional and statewide trends. Staff will also consider the deployment of a passenger survey to investigate the cause(s) of declines impacting the SolTrans route system.
Fixed Route Farebox Recovery
Our financials indicate that fixed route farebox recovery continued to be strong at 32.5 percent for the year. This compares favorably with our regional peer agencies, and remains on track with the 30.5 percent fixed route recovery ratio projected in SolTrans’ FY 2016-17 budget.
Despite the declines in ridership described above, farebox revenue in total is tracking according to budget and is not declining. Our financial capability to maintain our service levels continues to be unaffected. Staff will be investigating the correlation between fares and ridership.
Demand Response Ridership
The Agency observed a decrease in ADA paratransit service ridership of 14.4 percent for FY 2016-17 to date compared to the prior year, with data available through December. Demand management policies, such as the ADA eligibility assessment process and Regional Paratransit Program, have helped control ridership growth and keep resources available for improving the quality of the service. The implementation of the $0.25 Local and Regional $0.50 ADA fare has moved ridership to fixed route modes. As was noted in a previous update, nearly twice as many trips are taken by Paratransit-eligible customers on the fixed route system as on Paratransit buses.
Dial-a-Ride ridership for the fiscal year to date decreased by 2.5 percent from the prior year, to 2,000. Many of the customers leaving the Dial-a-Ride service have moved to riding Route 20. The $1.00 Senior off-peak fare has moved some customers to less busy times; however, the service continues to be capacity-constrained during some times of the day despite the lower overall demand. Further study and revision of Dial-a-Ride services are being pursued to identify any additional performance improvements that could be implemented.
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Despite declining ridership, SolTrans has been able to continue serving demand response customers efficiently. Generally speaking, when patronage declines, reverse economies of scale mean that the unit cost of providing the service rises because fixed costs are spread over fewer customers. One measure of productivity is the number of riders per hour of service offered. Revenue hours are the key driver of SolTrans costs. By this measure, productivity has been steady despite ridership decreases. Paratransit trips per hour held steady at about 2.2 over the last twelve months, while the comparable figure for General Public Dial-a-Ride was about 1.75.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This is an informational item with no fiscal impact.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 1 - Maximize the safety, reliability and efficiency of transit services to allow for long-term system sustainability and competitiveness for grant funds; Objective B – Establish process for developing service plans and implementing service enhancements for improving system performance; Strategy iii – Continuously document system strengths/weaknesses and outline solutions for improvement.
RECOMMENDATION:
Informational.
Attachment:A. System Performance Report
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SYSTEM PERFORMANCE REPORT
Presented to: The Solano County TransitBoard of Directors on April 20, 2017
By: Dennis Ybarra, Program Analyst II
1
ATTACHMENT AAgenda Item 10A
151
2
FY To Date Fixed Route Ridership Comparison
Month Local Express OverallJuly - MarFY16-17 544,348 516,065 1,060,413
July - MarFY15-16 611,777 526,028 1,137,805
% Diff. -11.0% -1.9% -6.8%
FY16 and FY17 System Comparison = -77,392 Trips
152
3
30,000
35,000
40,000
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
65,000
70,000
75,000
80,000A
pr-1
5
May
-15
Jun-
15
Jul-1
5
Aug
-15
Sep-
15
Oct
-15
Nov
-15
Dec
-15
Jan-
16
Feb-
16
Mar
-16
Apr
-16
May
-16
Jun-
16
Jul-1
6
Aug
-16
Sep-
16
Oct
-16
Nov
-16
Dec
-16
Jan-
17
Feb-
17
Mar
-17
Monthly Fixed Route RidershipLast 24 Months
Local
Regional
153
4
69,3
10
69,7
60
62,1
02
56,0
41
67,8
92
66,5
50
63,7
45
57,3
82
59,9
79
54,0
92
54,6
27
64,0
40
61,4
94
57,5
29
59,3
00
55,7
20
62,8
96
61,0
94
61,2
23
57,7
01
55,9
20
51,1
18
51,2
90
59,1
03
35,000
40,000
45,000
50,000
55,000
60,000
65,000
70,000
75,000
Monthly Fixed Route Ridership: Last 12 Months
Local Regional Trend (Local)
154
5
Local Routes Average Weekday Ridership YTD
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
3,500
4,000
July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb March
FY14/15FY15/16FY16/17
155
6
Express Routes Average Weekday Ridership YTD
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb March
FY14/15FY15/16FY16/17
156
7
-15%
-5%
5%
15%
LOCAL BUS EXPRESS BUS RAIL
Peer Ridership Change FY to Date (July-January)Over Prior Year
Figures for all operators from NTD Ridership Database
157
8
Fixed Route Local Ridership FY To Date (July-March)
101,606
127,250
40,115 49,720 45,030
29,921
108,624
22,8826,060 7,751 4,987
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
140,000
160,000
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 15 17 20
FY 15-16
FY 16-17
-6%
-12%
-13% -16%
2%
-10%
-14% 64% -9%28%
-25%
Local Route Number
158
9
Fixed Route Solano Express Ridership FY To Date(July-Mar)
73,551
360,966
53,129
0
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
300,000
350,000
400,000
78 80 85
FY 15-16
FY 16-17
9%
1%
-4%
Express Route Number
159
10
20%
25%
14% 14%16%
19%16%
18%
9%
20%24%
33%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
Fixed Route Farebox Recovery Comparison
Figures from other operators from MTC’s July 2016 Statistical Summary of Bay Area Operators
160
11
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
Paratransit
GPDAR
Trendline(Paratransit)
Monthly Demand Response Ridership
Ridership to Date (FY16‐17): 13,452(FY14‐15): 15,337
161
12
0.00
0.50
1.00
1.50
2.00
2.50
3.00
3.50
Paratransit Trips per Hour GP Dial‐a‐Ride Trips per Hour
12 Month Moving Avg (Para) 12 Month Moving Avg (DaR)
Demand Response Productivity Remains SteadyRiders per Hour by Month
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AGENDA ITEM 10BBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: MANDI RENSHAW, PROGRAM ANALYST I
SUBJECT: PUBLIC OUTREACH REPORT FOR APRIL 2017
ACTION: INFORMATIONAL
ISSUE:
SolTrans’ focus is to identify opportunities for public outreach through strategic partnerships,and to establish public outreach programs and activities that are valued by the community.
DISCUSSION:
The Board last received a Marketing and Public Outreach report in February 2017; therefore, the current report summarizes the events and promotions held in 2017 thus far and highlights the events and promotions Staff plans on participating in to build relationships with community organizations for April and May 2017.
Past Events and Promotions
January
o SolTrans transported Vallejo and Benicia seniors to the Senior Coalition’s Cover Your Assets Fraud Prevention Class.
o Staff presented on transportation options for seniors at the Florence Douglas Senior Center at the Senior Financial Abuse Class.
February
o SolTrans partnered with Leadership Vallejo to provide transportation for their tour of Vallejo and Mare Island
March
o SolTrans provided an express bus service from the Vallejo Ferry bus stop to the Suisun City KROC Center for the 4th Annual Children, Youth and Families Policy Forum.
o SolTrans provided free rides on all routes after 4:00 p.m. on March 17th to encourage safe travel on St. Patrick’s Day. Almost 1,500 riders rode for free that afternoon.
o SolTrans partnered with the Aging with Vitality Mini-Medical School for the third year to provide free service to the seniors attending the classes at the Suisun City KROC Center on March 18 and 25, and April 1 and 8, 2017.
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o SolTrans’ third annual Students Ride FREE for Spring Break ran March 27th through April 14th for the duration of Benicia, Vallejo and Solano Community College’sSpring Breaks.
o SolTrans’ Route 20 will be FREE from March 27th through April 28th. Staff is hoping to encourage ridership to try the route with the improvements made in November 2016 and will survey riders.
o SolTrans participated in Jesse Bethel’s family Resource Night March 21st.
April
o Staff released information on the April 2nd Service Improvements to Routes 78 and Route 80/82 via web, social media, print, and tabling at Walnut Creek BART.
o SolTrans participated in Benicia’s Mini Makers Faire on April 2nd by displaying the new electric bus and sharing information about SolTrans’ new technologies.
o SolTrans has partnered with the Vallejo Art Walk to provide FREE rides after 4:00 p.m. on the second Friday of each month for April - October.
o SolTrans participated in Vallejo’s Earth Day celebration on April 15th by displaying the new electric bus and sharing information about SolTrans’ new technologies.
Upcoming Events and Promotions
Aprilo SolTrans will participate in Solano Community College Earth Day celebration on
April 26th by displaying the new electric bus and sharing information about SolTrans’ new technologies.
Mayo SolTrans will provide complimentary shuttle service from Benicia and Vallejo to
the Solano Land Trust Events and Lynch Canyon May 6th and June 3rd.o SolTrans will provide FREE shuttle service in partnership with Vallejo’s
Carnevale Fantastico! May 6th and 7th. o SolTrans will provide FREE shuttle service in partnership with Benicia’s Artists
Open Studio event May 6th and 7th. o SolTrans will provide FREE shuttle service to Benicia’s Memorial Day ceremony
at the Benicia Military Cemetery.
Sponsorships:
Staff has participated in community programs and events through sponsorships, and in return the agency receives recognition through marketing and logo placement. Since January 2017,SolTrans has sponsored the Visit Vallejo Customer Service Training, Sustainability Community Breakfast, Vallejo Women’s Chamber Entrepreneurial Event, Rebuild Together Solano County, Florence Douglas Senior Center International Gala and Auction, Youth Ag Day and Carnevale Fantastico!.
Planned Outreach for 2017:
Staff plans to continue building the existing relationships with community partners and attend the already calendared 28 outreach events, as well as explore new partnerships to enhance events with public transportation information. Staff will continue to research ridership trends and find new ways to build ridership with fare promotions and free community shuttles to events in both Benicia and Vallejo.
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FISCAL IMPACT:
The cost of promotional materials and support for community outreach is constrained by the FY 2016-17 budget.
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 3 – Enhance customer satisfaction and build community support for public transportation; Objective D – Establish a public outreach program that is valued by the community and result in strong, mutually beneficial partnerships.
RECOMMENDATION:
Informational.
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SOLTRANS MARKETING AND
OUTREACH UPDATE
Presented to: The Solano County Transit
Board of Directors
on April 20, 2017
By: Mandi Renshaw, Program Analyst
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MARCH The Unveiling of our first 100% Zero-emission Electric Bus
and Groundbreaking for our Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Facility
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MARCH COMMUNITY SHUTTLES
4th Annual Children, Youth & Families Policy Forum, provided rides to
the Suisun City KROC Center from Vallejo Ferry Terminal.
Aging with Vitality Mini Medical School, provided rides to Benicia and Vallejo
seniors to the Suisun City KROC Center.
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MARCH/ APRIL PROMOTIONS
Free Rides on St. Patrick’s Day, on all routes 4pm-end of service
Spring Break Students Ride Free, on all local routes youth 6-18 and all college
students with valid college ID.
Ride Rt 20 for FREE, March 27th – April 28th 2nd annual to reintroduce riders to the
changes made in November.
Vallejo 2nd Friday Art Walk, April – October Free rides on local routes 4-end of
service
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MARCH/APRIL EVENTS
Jesse Bethel Family Resource Fair
Benicia Mini Makers Faire
Vallejo’s Earth Day Celebration
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UPCOMING EVENTS AND PROMOTIONS
Earth Day at Solano Community College, Fairfield Campus electric bus
on display
Solano Land Trust Events at Lynch Canyon, community shuttle
connecting Vallejo and Benicia to the events
Benicia Open Studios, Community Shuttle May 6th-7th
Carnevale Fantastico!, Community Shuttle May 6th-7th
Benicia’s Memorial Day Ceremony, Community Shuttle May 29th
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THANK YOU!
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AGENDA ITEM: 11ABOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2016
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESENTER: MONA BABAUTA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SUBJECT: FEDERAL AND STATE LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
ACTION: INFORMATIONAL
ISSUE:
This report is being provided to inform the Board of state and federal legislative issues that may impact SolTrans’ operations.
DISCUSSION:
State Update
Since our last Board meeting, the most important development was the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 1, which will generate a significant amount of funding for transportation infrastructure and public transit. Please see the attached report from Shaw, Yoder Antwih for more details.
Federal Update
Attachment B provides information on the latest federal issues that are relevant to SolTrans. The main issues of note are:
The continuing resolution (CR) for FY 2016-17 expires on April 28th. Congress will need to act by that date to authorize the release of additional funding for this fiscal year, and/or to avoid a government shutdown.
The President proposed a “skinny budget” for FY 2017-18, which proposes the elimination of capital investment grants and TIGER funding. These are discretionarysources that do not impact SolTrans. However, these sources impact several other big, capital projects in the Bay Area, such as the CalTrain electrification project and SMART rail extensions, and should these fail to get funded at the federal level, regional funding may need to be shifted around to ensure timely delivery of these types of projects that are deemed important by MTC.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this report.
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PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 2 – Optimize fiscal health and long-term sustainability; Objective D – Influence and shape funding and/or legislative policies to strengthen fiscal health; Strategy iv - Actively track federal, state, and regional legislation and policies, and take public positions as appropriate, and communicate such to legislative leaders/policymakers.
RECOMMENDATION:
Informational.
Attachments:A. Shaw, Yoder Antwih Report dated April 7, 2017B. Federal Legislative Report from Akin Gump dated April 11, 2017
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Tel: 916.446.4656 Fax: 916.446.4318
1415 L Street, Suite 1000 Sacramento, CA 95814
April 7, 2017
TO: Board of Directors, Solano County Transit
FM: Joshua W. Shaw, Partner
RE: STATE LEGISLATIVE UPDATE – April 2017
Legislative Update The 2017-18 Regular Legislative Session is well under way as policy and fiscal committees begin to hear bills. Budget subcommittees are also hearing the fiscal requests made in the Governor’s proposed January budget. The Legislature took its Spring Recess on April 6, and will reconvene on April 17. In this report we discuss the latest on transportation funding and highlight the most relevant bills this year primarily affecting public transit agencies; those are discussed under Bills of Interest, below.
Transportation Funding Measure Passes – New Transit Funding! Late in the evening of April 6, the Legislature passed SB 1 (Beall and Frazier), a $5.2 billion transportation funding package, providing new revenues from increases in the gasoline and diesel excise taxes, an increase in diesel sales tax, a new transportation fee based on the value of vehicles, and a fee on zero emission vehicles. The proposal funds local streets & roads, state highways, goods movement projects, public transit, planning, and active transportation, as follows:
Statewide Investments (50%) • $1.5 billion for highway maintenance• $400 million for bridge repair• $300 million for good movement• $250 million for congested commute corridors (new program)• $80 million for ag, OHV, and boating• $27.5 million in additional STIP• $7 million for university ITS programs
Local Investments (50%) o $1.5 billion for local streets and roadso $750 million for public transito $200 million for state-local partnership (self-help counties)o $100 million for ATPo $82.5 million in additional STIPo $25 million for local planning grants
ATTACHMENT A Agenda Item 11A
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More specifically, for transit, the package:
• Increases the incremental sales tax on diesel fuel dedicated to the State Transit Assistance (STA) formula program another 3.50% – generating approximately $250 million/year at first, then increased by a CPI factor over time – to be used for transit capital and operations purposes;
• Increases the incremental sales tax on diesel fuel another 0.50% – generating approximately $40 million/year at first, then increased by a CPI factor over time – and dedicates these revenues to intercity passenger rail systems and commuter rail systems; and,
• Establishes a new “Transportation Improvement Fee” under the Vehicle License Fee law (removing Article XIX restrictions) and dedicates these revenues as follows:
o Approximately $105 million/year to the STA program, for “state of good repair” types of expenditures;
o An estimated $245 million/year to the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program, the competitive transit capital program overseen by the California State Transportation Agency; and,
o Close to $250 million/year to a new “Solutions for Congested Corridors Program” which would be available to the California Transportation Commission, for allocation to project applicants for a balanced set of transportation, environmental and community access improvements within highly congested travel corridors in California – including public transit projects.
The proposal also provides for accelerated loan repayment from the General Fund to public transit, which would be deposited into the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program. In addition to the funding elements, the package also includes a number of reform/efficiency items, including:
• Constitutional protections for the new revenues [ensconced in ACA 5 (Frazier and Newman)] • Performance measures for Caltrans and local agencies • CTC oversight of Caltrans staffing for SHOPP projects • New independent Inspector General position at Caltrans • Advanced environmental mitigation for Caltrans projects
This measure represents a huge step forward for all transportation & transit programs, and the Board should be particularly mindful of the strategic leadership and immense efforts exerted by our own Assemblymember Jim Frazier, as well as his counterpart, Senator Jim Beall, in moving this historic funding package through the legislature and to the governor.
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Bills of Interest Following is a summary of several of the most important bills potentially affecting transit agencies that have been introduced in the 2017-18 Regular Session. SB 1 (Beall & Frazier) – Transportation Funding Package Dubbed the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017, this is the vehicle to move the transportation funding package negotiated by the legislative leaders and the Governor. Assemblymember Jim Frazier is the principal co-author of the measure (originally introduced by Senator Jim Beall). As described above, the bill would increase several taxes and fees to address issues of deferred maintenance on state highways and local streets and roads, as well as provide new funding for public transit. Specifically, this bill would increase both the gasoline and diesel excise taxes by 12 and 20 cents, respectively; create a new transportation improvement fee, starting at $25; create a new $100 vehicle registration fee applicable to zero-emission motor vehicles; increase the rate of sales tax on diesel by another 4% for the State Transit Assistance Program and intercity & commuter rail agencies; and, repay a portion of outstanding transportation loans, including to transit programs. As a result, transportation funding would increase by approximately $5.2 billion per year. This bill was passed to the Governor on April 6. SB 20 (Hill) – Vehicles: Buses Seatbelts This bill would require a passenger in a bus that is equipped with safety belts to be properly restrained by a safety belt. The bill would also require a bus operator to inform passengers of the requirement to wear a seatbelt and would authorize a bus driver to post, or allow to be posted, signs or placards informing passengers of the requirement to wear a seatbelt. The bill would make a violation of this provision an infraction punishable by a fine of not more than $20 for a first offense and a fine of not more than $50 for each subsequent offense. SB 614 (Hertzberg) – Public Transportation Agencies: Administrative Penalties This bill would enable transit agencies that implement an administrative process to capture the fine revenue from all administrative citations issued under Public Utilities Code Section 99580. This bill would also reduce the maximum fines allowed under the administrative process and allow for low-income individuals and minors to opt for community service in lieu of payment of the citation. SCA 6 (Wiener) – Lower Vote Threshold for Local Transportation Taxes The California Constitution subjects the imposition of a special tax by a city, county, or special district upon the approval of two-thirds of the voters. This measure would lower that threshold to 55 percent of voters for taxes for transportation purposes. We recommend SolTrans SUPPORT this bill. AB 1 (Frazier) – Transportation Funding Package This bill would increase several taxes and fees to address issues of deferred maintenance on state highways and local streets and roads, as well as provide new funding for public transit. Specifically, this bill would increase both the gasoline and diesel excise taxes by 12 and 20 cents, respectively; increase the vehicle registration fee by $38; create a new $165 vehicle registration fee applicable to zero-emission motor vehicles; increase Cap and Trade funding for transit; increase the rate of sales tax on diesel by another 3.5% for the State Transit Assistance Program, limit the borrowing of weight-fee revenues, and repay outstanding transportation loans. As a result, transportation funding would increase by approximately $6 billion per year.
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4
AB 17 (Holden) – Transit Pass Program: Free or Reduce Fare Transit Pass Program This bill would create the Transit Pass Program to be administered by the California Department of Transportation. The bill would require the State Controller to allocate moneys made available for the program, upon appropriation by the Legislature, to support transit pass programs that provide free or reduced-fare transit passes to specified pupils and students. The bill would require eligible transit providers and eligible participants to enter into agreements for the distribution of free or reduced-fare transit passes to students. AB 301 (Rodriguez) – Driver’s License Examination Requirements: Certificate of Driving Skill This bill would amend current law to require the Department of Motor Vehicles to adopt regulations that would authorize the department to accept certificates of driving skills issued by third-party entities, including a commercial motor vehicle training institution, an independent testing center, a union, a municipality, an accredited public or private secondary institution, any similar entity approved by the department. We recommend SolTrans SUPPORT this bill. AB 496 (Fong) – Transportation Funding This bill represents the “Republican” transportation funding plan, which would provide $7.8 billion ($5.6 billion in ongoing and $2.2 billion in one-time revenues) for transportation without raising taxes. This bill largely relies on the redirection of existing revenues, including the sales tax on vehicle sales, truck weight fees, car insurance taxes, and outstanding loan repayments, as well as increased spending from Cap and Trade. AB 733 (Berman) – Enhanced Infrastructure Financing Districts Existing law authorizes a city or a county to establish an enhanced infrastructure financing district (EIFD) to finance capital projects with property tax increment under certain conditions. This bill would allow the financing of projects that adapt to the impacts of climate change, including sea level rise. AB 1113 (Bloom) – State Transit Assistance Program Formula Clarification This bill amends the statutes governing the State Transit Assistance (STA) program to clarify several ambiguities in law that led to administrative changes made in 2016 by the State Controller’s Office; these changes implemented new calculation and allocation methodologies for the STA program, suddenly changing the way these funds are distributed to transit agencies. We recommend SolTrans SUPPORT this bill. ACA 4 (Aguiar-Curry) – Lower Vote Threshold for Local Infrastructure Taxes The California Constitution subjects the imposition of a special tax by a city, county, or special district upon the approval of two-thirds of the voters. This measure would lower that threshold to 55 percent of voters for taxes for purposes of funding the construction, rehabilitation or replacement of public infrastructure or affordable housing, which specifically includes improvements to transit and streets & highways, as well as protection from impacts of sea-level rise. We recommend SolTrans SUPPORT this bill. ACA 5 (Frazier and Newman) – Protecting Transportation Revenues, Revising Appropriations Limit This measure would add to the list of transportation-related revenues protected from legislative diversion by Article XIX those taxes and fees raised in SB 1 (Beall & Frazier). The measure also protects certain transit funds that were increased in the Gas Tax Swap of 2010-11. Article XIII B of the California Constitution prohibits the total annual appropriations subject to limitation of the state and each local government from exceeding the appropriations limit of the entity of the government for the prior year,
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as adjusted; this measure would also exclude appropriations of certain revenues associated with the Road Repair and Accountability Act of 2017 from the appropriations subject to constitutional limitation. This constitutional amendment was passed by the Legislature on April 6 and will be on the statewide ballot in 2018.
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M E M O R A N D U M
April 11, 2017
To: Solano County Transit
From: Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP
Re: March Report
President Trump's Infrastructure Plan
Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao announced at a White House meeting with New York
business leaders last week that the Trump Administration plans to send the Administration’s
infrastructure proposal to Congress sometime in May. President Trump proposes to invest $1
trillion over 10 years in infrastructure, including energy, water, broadband, veterans’ hospitals
and possibly subsidized housing, in addition to transportation infrastructure.
President Trump and Administration officials have said the plan will include tax credits to spur
private investment in infrastructure and changes to current law to streamline project delivery.
Secretary Chao has expressed concern that reforms in the Fixing America's Surface
Transportation (FAST) Act are not being fully utilized. President Trump has said his proposal
will cover only those projects that can be started within 90 days and has said that environmental
streamlining reforms would make more projects shovel ready. There are no details regarding the
extent to which the plan will include direct spending for projects and the source of funding for
direct spending or tax credits, except some in the Administration and Congress have suggested
pairing infrastructure legislation with tax reform and using repatriated earnings to pay for
infrastructure spending.
The Republican leadership of the House and Senate as well as the leaders of the House and
Senate transportation committees expressed support for infrastructure legislation. While
Democratic members support infrastructure legislation, they have cautioned that the legislation
must include direct spending since only a small percentage of projects are candidates for private
investment. They also may oppose environmental streamlining depending on the scope of the
reforms. President Trump has indicated that he will work with Democrats on passing
infrastructure legislation, which he may need to do if Freedom Caucus members, who tend to
oppose additional federal spending, oppose the infrastructure plan.
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Solano County Transit
April 11, 2017
Page 2
Fiscal Year 2017 Appropriations
The bipartisan leadership of the House and Senate Appropriations Committees expressed
optimism that they can reach agreement on an omnibus fiscal year 2017 appropriations bill
before the current Continuing Resolution (CR) expires on April 28. Congress will return on
April 24 from their spring recess with just four joint legislative days to complete deliberations
and pass the legislation. If Congress cannot reach agreement on omnibus legislation, it will need
to pass another CR to fund the federal government at fiscal year 2016 levels – to avoid a
government shutdown.
Despite the optimism expressed by the Appropriations Committees, negotiators have not
resolved controversial issues, including President Trump’s proposal to increase defense
spending, funding for construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border, and riders to defund
Planned Parenthood and other federal programs.
The Trump Administration sent a spreadsheet to Congress that proposes the reduction or
elimination of funding for certain programs in fiscal year 2017. One of the programs
recommended for elimination is the TIGER grant program. The leadership of the Appropriations
Committees said that the Administration’s recommendations arrived too late in the negotiations
to have any impact on the final bill.
Fiscal Year 2018 Budget and Appropriations
Republican and Democratic members of Congress criticized the “Skinny Budget” that President
Trump sent to Congress and have said they are not likely to adopt much of it in their fiscal year
2018 budget and appropriations bills. Trump Administration officials have said that the
President will send a detailed budget proposal to Congress in May.
The Skinny Budget includes high level funding recommendations for federal departments and
agencies. The budget would reduce spending for domestic non-defense programs from $516
billion to $462 billion while increasing defense spending from $549 billion to $603 billion.
Overall spending would remain at the level set by the Budget Control Act of $1.065 trillion.
The budget would reduce Department of Transportation funding by $2.4 billion – a 13 percent
decrease from the 2017 annualized CR level. The budget proposed to reduce funding for Capital
Investment Grants (known as “new starts”), eliminate funding for the TIGER grant program, and
terminate federal support for Amtrak’s long distance routes. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), who
chairs the Senate Transportation-HUD Appropriations Subcommittee, expressed support for
continued funding of the TIGER program at a March 8 hearing and other members of the House
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Solano County Transit
April 11, 2017
Page 3
and Senate Appropriations Committees likely will continue to support funding in spite of
President Trump’s budget proposal.
As part of the budget proposal, the White House released an Executive Order that directs federal
agencies to review and restructure their operations and programs to save costs. Agencies must
submit reorganization plans to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) within 90 days.
OMB also is expected to solicit public comment and work with Congress to develop proposals to
reorganize government functions.
Metropolitan Planning Organization Coordination and Planning Area Reform Rule Repeal
The House is expected to vote after the spring recess on a bill (H.R. 1346) that would repeal the
Department of Transportation rule that requires Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) to
consolidate. The House is expected to bring up the bill under the suspensions calendar and it
should pass with a voice vote. The Senate approved a companion bill (S. 496) on March 6.
The rule, which became final on December 20, 2016, requires MPOs to develop single
metropolitan and statewide transportation plans and a jointly established set of performance
targets for an urbanized area and any contiguous areas expected to become urbanized within a
20-year period. The Metropolitan Transportation Commission for the San Francisco Bay Area
(MTC) and the adjacent MPOs submitted comments opposing the rule. Members of Congress,
the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, and many state
departments of transportation urged DOT to withdraw the proposed rule arguing that it would
change a system that has been working well for decades without improving the planning process.
The Surface and Maritime Transportation Security Act.
On April 5, the Senate Commerce Committee approved a bill (S. 763) to require the
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to reassess the efficiency of its programs on an
annual basis. The bill would address “deficiencies” in how TSA identifies security risks for
different modes of transportation, including rail, transit, highway, freight and passenger ships.
The bill requires the establishment of an “awareness” program to promote surface transportation
security by training surface transportation operators and frontline employees, including over-the-
road bus drivers, security personnel, dispatchers, maintenance and maintenance support
personnel, ticket agents, and other terminal employees, to recognize and respond to security
threats. The bill was sponsored by Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Chairman
John Thune, ranking member Bill Nelson (D-FL) as well as Senators Deb Fischer and Cory
Booker (D-NJ).
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April 11, 2017
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Environmental Streamlining Legislation
Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) announced that he will introduce bipartisan legislation that would
overhaul permit regulations for federal projects and that Secretary Chao will work with him to
advance the bill. He has indicated that the bill will be entitled The Rebuild America Now Act.
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AGENDA ITEM 11BBOARD MEETING DATE: APRIL 20, 2017
Solano County Transit
TO: BOARD OF DIRECTORSPRESENTER: MONA BABAUTA, EXECUTIVE DIRECTORSUBJECT: APRIL 2017 CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS UPDATEACTION: INFORMATIONAL
ISSUE:
This report is an update to the Board on the Agency’s ongoing construction projects through April 11, 2017.
DISCUSSION:
Compressed Natural Gas Facility
Key Activities
Reviewing and responding to TruStar submittals and RFIs Obtain Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) permit for the diesel
generator – completed week of April 3, 2017 PG&E coordination meeting on service connection – planned by end of April 2017 Delivery of two compressors, fuel pumps and diesel generator – week of April 3, 2017
Schedule
Construction NTP issued – 10/28/16 Requested Contractor quote for PG&E connection – 11/4/16 PG&E electric contract finalized – 11/9/16 PG&E gas contract finalized – 12/9/16 Contractor onsite – 1/30/17 PG&E Electric and Gas service connection NTP issued – 1/31/17 Projected Contractor Completion – August 2017 (approximately 285 calendar days)
Critical Issues for this Month
Pursue PG&E service connection.
Curtola Park and Ride Hub
Please see Attachment A for the activities that are expected to be completed between April and June 2017.
FISCAL IMPACT:
No fiscal impact.189
PERFORMANCE GOAL:
Goal 1 – Implement technologies and infrastructure/equipment improvements for enhancing and monitoring system performance; Objective A – Implement technologies and infrastructure/equipment improvements for enhancing and monitoring system performance; Strategy ii - Fully complete the SolTrans Curtola Park and Ride Hub; Strategy v - Complete Compressed Natural Gas Infrastructure.
RECOMMENDATION:
Informational.
Attachment:A. SolTrans Curtola Park and Ride Hub Memo dated April 12, 2017
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kimley-horn.com 1300 Clay Street, Suite 325, Oakland, CA 94612 510.625.0712
MEMORANDUMTo: Mona Babauta, SolTransFrom: Robert Paderna, Kimley-HornCC: Elbert Chang and Kevin Aguigui, Kimley-HornDate: April 12, 2017Subject: SolTrans Curtola Park and Ride – Outstanding Project Closeout Items
The remaining project close-out activities for the Curtola Park and Ride Project are presented in thetable below.
Item Current Status / Next Steps AnticipatedCompletion
1. Stormwater O&MAgreement
· City and SolTrans to execute StormwaterFacilities O&M Agreement. City of Vallejo legaldepartment reviewing Soltrans’ proposedrevisions to Stormwater Facilities agreement.
· City to record Agreement at Solano CountyRecorder’s Office
April 2017
2. Completelandscapingpunchlist items
· Contractor to two replacement palm trees.Contractor to provide shipment and installationdate for two replacement palm trees (underwarranty)
April 2017
3. Final BuildingCertificate ofOccupancy
· Contractor to schedule final electrical inspectionwith City for acceptance of electrical grounding ofsolar system
· City Chief Building Official to provide finalsignature on permit card (Final Certificate ofOccupancy) upon passing of electrical inspectionand City public works sign off on permit card uponcompletion of Items 1 and 2 above.
April 2017
4. Street Vacation ofCarlson Street andEvans Street(City of Vallejo)
· Item will be presented for approval by the CityCouncil at the 4/25/17 council meeting
· Resolution anticipated to be recorded at SolanoCounty Recorder’s Office by 5/23/17
· City to send certified copy of Resolution toSolTrans and Caltrans
May 2017
ATTACHMENT AAgenda Item 11B
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Page 2
kimley-horn.com 1300 Clay Street, Suite 325, Oakland, CA 94612 510.625.0712
Item Current Status / Next Steps AnticipatedCompletion
5. State Right-of-WayRelinquishment(Caltrans)
· Caltrans District 4 currently preparingrelinquishment package for SolTrans approval
· Caltrans District 4 to submit approved finalrelinquishment package and Resolution of StreetVacation of Carlson Street and Evans Street toCaltrans Headquarters (HQ) to put on agenda forapproval by California TransportationCommission (CTC) in July 2017
· Right-of-way relinquishment approved by CTCand recorded by Caltrans at Solano CountyRecorder’s Office
July 2017
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Minutes Regular SolTrans Board Meeting of 04-20-17 Approved May 18, 2017 1 of 7
SOLANO COUNTY TRANSIT
Board Minutes for Meeting of April 20, 2017
1. CLOSED SESSION
The special meeting was called to order at 3:00 p.m. Due to the absence of the Chair and Vice Chair, on a motion by Director Spering and a second by Director Malgapo, the SolTrans JPA Board unanimously appointed Director Patterson as Acting Chairperson for the special meeting/closed session as well as the regular Board meeting. (4 Ayes, 1 Absent) The meeting recessed into closed session to discuss personnel matters. There were no matters to report.
2. CALL TO ORDER Acting Chairperson Patterson called the regular meeting of the SolTrans Board to order at 3:40 p.m.
A quorum was confirmed by the Clerk of the Board, Suzanne Fredriksen. There was no Statement of Conflict declared at this time.
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Jess Malgapo, Councilmember
City of Vallejo
Elizabeth Patterson, Mayor City of Benicia Pippin Dew-Costa, Councilmember City of Vallejo, Alternate Jim Spering, Supervisor,
County of Solano MTC Representative
Pete Sanchez, Mayor Ex-Officio ± STA Representative
MEMBERS ABSENT:
Bob Sampayan, Mayor
City of Vallejo, Chairperson
Tom Campbell, Councilmember City of Benicia, Vice Chairperson STAFF
PRESENT: In Alphabetical Order by Last Name:
Michael Abegg SolTrans Planning & Operations Manager Kristina Botsford SolTrans Finance & Administration Manager Patricia Carr SolTrans General Services Manager Bernadette Curry SolTrans Legal Counsel Suzanne Fredriksen SolTrans Board Clerk Mandi Renshaw SolTrans Program Analyst I Michael Scanlon SolTrans Interim Executive Director Dennis Ybarra SolTrans Program Analyst II
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OTHERS PRESENT:
In Alphabetical Order by Last Name:
Cathy Campos National Express Transit Damon Dash National Express Transit Brandon Thomson Solano Transportation Authority Sam Tolley National Express Transit Tiffany Turner National Express Transit
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA On a motion by Director Spering and a second by Alternate Director Dew-Costa, the SolTrans JPA Board unanimously approved the Agenda. (4 Ayes, 1 Absent)
5.
OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC COMMENT None presented.
6. (;(&87,9(�',5(&725¶6�5(3257 Interim Executive Director, Michael Scanlon announced that SolTrans has hired a Community and External Affairs Officer, Ariel Mercado who will begin working on May 22nd.
7. PROCLAMATIONS & PRESENTATIONS
CONSENT CALENDAR On a motion by Director Spering and a second by Director Malgapo, the SolTrans JPA Board unanimously approved Consent Calendar Items 8A through 8H. (4 Ayes, 1 Absent)
8A. Meeting Minutes of February 16, 2017 Recommendation: Approve the meeting minutes of February 16, 2017.
8B. Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Meeting Minutes of March 27, 2017 Recommendation: Approve the TAC meeting minutes of March 27, 2017.
8C. Public Advisory Committee (PAC) Meeting Minutes of March 27, 2017 Recommendation: Approve the PAC meeting minutes of March 27, 2017.
8D. Progress update on Fiscal Year (FY) 2016-17 SolTrans Performance Goals and Measures Recommendation: Receive the progress update on the FY 2016-17 SolTrans Performance Goals and Measures.
8E. $SSURYH�6RO7UDQV¶�$SSOLFDWLRQ�IRU�/RZ�&DUERQ�7UDQVLW�2SHUDWLRQV�3URJUDP��/&723��)XQGV�for Fiscal Year (FY) 2016-17 in the Amount of $155,480 Recommendation:
1) Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A that authorizes the execution of the LCTOP Project, and
2) Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment B that authorizes the LCTOP Certifications and Assurances.
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8F. Authorize Application for Federal Grants Recommendation: Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A to authorize the filing of federal grant applications and the execution of the required certifications and assurances.
8G. Approve Reduced Fare Program for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Paratransit Certified and Personal Care Attendants on Local Fixed Route System Recommendation: Authorize Staff to extend the reduced fare pilot until October 31, 2017 to allow additional time for further analysis. Staff will return to the Board after the end of the fiscal year with a recommendation whether the fare should be made permanent, adjusted or discontinued.
8H. Authorize the Application and Execution of Federal Grants Recommendation: Approve the Board Resolution in Attachment A to submit the filing of federal grant applications, annual certifications and assurances, and to execute grant and cooperative agreements.
REGULAR CALENDAR 9. ACTION ITEMS
9A. Draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2017-18 SolTrans Performance Measures
Michael Abegg provided a presentation on the proposed FY 2017-18 Performance Measures, including proposed revisions to the mission statement, revisions to the document structure, and the proposed agency values and goals.
Public Comments: None presented.
Board Comments: Members of the SolTrans Board expressed the following comments and concerns for consideration and discussion:
x Concerns were expressed regarding inclXGLQJ�WKH�ZRUG�³FRQYHQLHQW´�LQ the mission statement, as it is a subjective word and public transportation may or may not be able to meet the standard of what could generally be viewed as convenient.
x A suggestion was made to consider replacing the word ³FRQYHQLHQW´�ZLWK�³DFFHVVLEOH´� It was DOVR�UHTXHVWHG�WKDW�³DFFHVVLELOLW\´�EH�added to list of agency values.
x A reference was made to increasing ridership, and it was clarified that this is not simply a desirable outcome, but rather one of the Guiding Principles which the Board adopted when SolTrans was formed.
x Staff was asked to include a list of reports, when they are due and who is responsible for such reports.
x A request was made to ensure the structure of the organization, under Goal 4, is flexible and agile, both horizontally and vertically where employees have the ability to perform cross-over work within different departments.
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x A request was made to replace aspirational statements with metrics that clearly outline what changes and outcomes are expected.
x ,W�ZDV�VXJJHVWHG�WKDW�6WDII�FODULI\�ZKDW�³LQDGHTXDWH�EXV�VWRSV´�PHDQV�XQGHU�*RDO����2EMHFWLYH�A, Strategy ii.
x Staff was cautioned to ensure that the term ³DXGLW´�is not being used IRU�³DVVHVVPHQWV´�� x A reference was made to the performance measure related to energy conservation, and Staff
was encouraged to explore whether the agency may be able to apply for Community Choice Aggregation funding, similar to the Marin clean energy.
Recommendation: 1) Provide IHHGEDFN�WR�6WDII�UHJDUGLQJ�WKH�SURSRVHG�FKDQJHV�WR�WKH�DJHQF\¶V�PLVVLRQ�VWDWHPHQW��
as shown on page 1 of Attachment A; and 2) Direct the Interim Executive Director to finalize the FY 2017-18 Performance Goals and
Measures, per feedback from the SolTrans Board and Technical and Public Advisory Committees, and to present a final document to the Board in May 2017 for approval.
With no further feedback from the SolTrans Board, Acting Chairperson Patterson closed the agenda
item.
9B. Budget Outlook Through Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 Kristina Botsford presented an overview of the budget outlook through FY 2026-27 and a summary of the results, noting that there are no funds for major capital projects outside of bus replacements, and a 10 year shortfall of $11-13 million is projected for bus replacements. She provided the projected outcomes for operations expenses and revenue, as well as capital expenditures. She highlighted issues of concern as well as potential opportunities.
Public Comments: None presented.
Board Comments: The following comments and concerns were expressed by Board Members:
x Appreciation was expressed for the conservative approach towards small, incremental fare increases noting that sudden, large increases can be detrimental to riders.
x Concern was expressed that there is no mention of potential RM3 or SB1 funding opportunities, and Staff was encouraged to be proactive in pursuing these potential sources. A suggestion was made for the Board to put together a small group as soon as possible to carry WKH�DJHQF\¶V�PHVVDJH�WR�WKH�state legislators.
x It was suggested that the Board may wish to consider holding a work session to further discuss various funding concerns and opportunities.
x Clarification was requested regarding when the Board may need to consider adjusting the timing and percentages of fare increases should ridership continue to decline.
x Concern was expressed regarding infrastructure expansion getting ahead of the aJHQF\¶V�ability to utilize the investment and Staff was encouraged to ensure the projected timeline is synchronized accordingly.
x A request was made for Staff to confirm where violation fine money would go once parking enforcement begins at the SolTrans Curtola Park and Ride Hub. 196
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Staff provided the following points of clarification: x Staff will poll the Board members as well as the Alternates to obtain availability for a group to
visit and speak with the Representatives. x Staff will put together an analysis of various scenarios for the Board to consider regarding
adjustments which may be needed to the timing and percentages of fare increases should ridership continue to decline.
x Staff has not yet established an agreement with the City of Vallejo to outline the process for parking enforcement; however, that should be in place soon and will contain more information about where violation fine money will be deposited.
Recommendation:
Provide feedback on the Budget Outlook through FY 2026-27.
With no further comments from the SolTrans Board, Acting Chairperson Patterson closed the agenda item.
9C. Fiscal Year (FY) 2017-18 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget Kristina Botsford provided a presentation of the operating budget framework, key elements of the proposed FY 2017-18 operating budget versus the current year, an overview of the proposed operating budget, the FY 2016-17 capital projects to be carried over to FY 2017-18, new capital requests, as well as the proposed capital funding for new requests.
Public Comments: None presented.
Board Comments: None presented.
Recommendation:
Provide feedback on the FY 2017-18 Proposed Operating and Capital Budget Assumptions and Framework.
With no further comments from the SolTrans Board, Acting Chairperson Patterson closed the agenda item.
NON-ACTION/ INFORMATIONAL 10. DISCUSSION ITEMS
10A. System Performance Report
'HQQLV�<EDUUD�SURYLGHG�D�SUHVHQWDWLRQ�RI�6RO7UDQV¶�IDUHER[�UHFRYHU\�UDWLR��PRQWKO\�ridership statistics, as well as a year-to-year ridership comparison.
Public Comments: None presented.
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Board Comments: A request was made for Staff to consider using big data approaches in the assessment of ridership trends, noting that data analysis may reveal whether ridership declines are primarily occurring among choice riders or transit dependent riders. Staff noted that ULGHUVKLS�GDWD�WKURXJK�07&¶V�UHFHQW�VXUYH\�VKRXOG�EH�DYDLODEOH�LQ�WKH�FRPLQJ�ZHHNV��which will also help answer some of the questions about ridership decline.
Recommendation: Informational.
10B. Public Outreach Report for April 2017 Mandi Renshaw provided a presentation of public outreach events for March and April, as well as upcoming outreach efforts.
Public Comments: None presented.
Board Member Comments: A request was made for Staff to consider providing transit service for the Travis Air Expo on May 6th and 7th. Concern was expressed regarding some confusion last year regarding how far the Benicia Memorial Day shuttle service would travel, and Staff was asked to clarify with the transit operator this year to ensure the drivers are clear. Councilmember Dew-Costa noted that SolTrans is partnering to provide shuttle service to a camp that she is coordinating in June. She noted that is a soccer and healthy eating camp for young girls from Benicia and Vallejo.
Recommendation: Informational.
11. NON- DISCUSSION ITEMS
11A. Federal and State Legislative Update Recommendation: Informational.
11B. April 2017 Construction Projects Update Recommendation: Informational.
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12. STAFF BRIEFINGS Michael Abegg provided an update on Mare Island service, noting that the service is continuing at a modest level and that Staff will bring additional discussion before the Board in May. He also stated that Staff is conducting a review on an issue which arose at the February Board meeting related to driver certification and training, and a full summary of the review will be provided to the Board in the near future, or as a supplemental handout in May.
13. BOARD OF DIRECTORS COMMENTS A request was made for the Interim Executive Director to explore and provide feedback to the Board regarding whether or not an expansion of the Board composition should be considered in the future. It was noted that a fresher perspective, with more diversity of opinions and energy could be beneficial. A request was also made for Staff to consider including members of the public, as well as exploring the possibility of adding additional Joint Powers Authority (JPA) members.
14. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the SolTrans Board is tentatively scheduled for Thursday, May 18, 2017, 4:00 p.m., in the Benicia Council Chamber, located at 250 East L Street, Benicia.
Attested by:
04/21/2017 Suzanne Fredriksen Date Clerk of the Board
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