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PTAC Minutes 05/30/2018MINUTES OF THE PUBLIC TRANSIT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING May 30, 2018 LET IT BE REMEMBERED, the Public Transit Advisory Committee in and for the County of Collier, having conducted business herein, met on this date at 3:00 P.M. in REGULAR SESSION at Administrative Building "F", Suite 501, Collier County Government Complex Naples, Florida with the following members present: ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE: Chairman: Mr. John DiMarco Vice Chairman: Mr. John Jenkins Mr. Kerru Dera Mr. Arthur Dobberstein Mr. Richard Duggan ALSO PRESENT: Ms. Michelle Arnold, Director, Public Transit and Neighborhood Enhancement Mr. Omar DeLeon, Senior Planner, Public Transit and Neighborhood Enhancement Mr. Barry Bland, General Manager, MTM Ms. Elena Ortiz Rosado, Events, Sales and Marketing Coordinator Page 1 I. Call to Order Chairman DiMarco called the meeting to order at 2:30 P.M. II. Roll Call Roll call was taken and a quorum was established. III. Approval of Agenda Mr. Dobberstein requested a change to the agenda, to include a discussion with regard to the approval process for Paratransit use. Mr. Jenkins entered a motion to approve the May 30, 2018 meeting agenda, with the addition of the noted agenda item. Mr. DiMarco seconded the motion. All were in favor. The motion was carried unanimously. IV. Approval of Minutes - March 20, 2018 Mr. Jenkins entered a motion to approve the minutes of the March 20, 2018 meeting minutes. Mr. DiMarco seconded the motion. All were in favor. The motion was carried unanimously. V. Committee Action a. 5307/5339 FY18 POP Mr. DeLeon stated that Federal grant funding is received yearly by the Public Transit &NBHD Division for the management of the CAT system under the Urbanized Area Formula Program. These funds are to be used for transit capital projects, as well as operating assistance under FTA guidelines. As Collier County is located within the Bonita Springs/Naples Census Urbanized Area, a portion of the Section 5307 funding received is shared with Lee County. For 2018, the full amount allocated to the Bonita Springs/Naples Urbanized area is $3,214,306, with the portion of the grant funds awarded to Collier County $2,590,120. The difference of $624,186 would be distributed to Bonita Springs/Lee County. The Section 5339 program provides capital assistance for new and replacement buses, related equipment and facilities. For urbanized areas with populations of 200K and over, funds are apportioned and given directly to a designated recipient, with Collier County the designated recipient for the urbanized area. The estimated amount to be allocated to the Bonita Springs/Naples Urbanized Area is $411,466. An endorsement was sought by the Advisory Committee of the following Program of Projects anticipated to be undertaken with the FTA Section 5307 grant funds: +l % enhancement to be put towards bus wraps. +I% Security/Safety features; adding flashers to the back lights of fixed route buses, as well as back up sensors/alarms for Paratransit buses. +20% to be put towards the operation of ADA Paratransit services, increased from the previous year's 10%, in order to cover operational deficits. Page 2 +Transit Enhancement; Bus pullout, as well as 2 shelter purchase and construction at Fleischmann. +Operating Assistance — Transit Operations to be put towards operations, as well as preventative maintenance, warranty, and fuel costs. Mr. Dobberstein inquired as to whether a potential shortfall had been taken into account regarding rising diesel fuel costs. Mr. DeLeon confirmed that the Finance Division and Fleet Management Department project fuel costs for the upcoming year. Ms. Arnold pointed out that the bulk of the grant funding would be put towards operational costs, however replacement buses will need to be purchased next year and alternative sources of funding again need to be identified. Mr. Dobberstein suggested applying grant funding to extending the life of the existing buses in order to assist with operational needs at present, which Mr. DeLeon confirmed had been done for 2018. Mr. DiMarco suggested a possible increase in fares and Mr. DeLeon confirmed that the recent fare study identified a scenario which outlined an increased fare structure. Ms. Arnold stated that funds have been shifted internally in order to augment local match funding so as to assist with operating expenses. Ms. Arnold further clarified that the 50% match requirement applies only to transit operating assistance. i.e., transit operations and fuel. There is no match for preventative maintenance, which is funded solely by grant dollars. An endorsement is also being sought by the Advisory Committee of the following Program of Projects anticipated to be undertaken with the FTA Section 5339 grant funds: +Warranty, farelogistics +Fleischmann project purchase/construction +Paratransit software (to enhance current software, or for potential RFP for improved software in view of the existing 10 -year old program). Ms. Arnold pointed out that other County Divisions have been able to utilize budget guidance which identifies a percentage increase over the prior year, most likely local funding, however Public Transportation has not had that ability. An analysis has been pet -formed which showed that had Public Transit been able to keep up with budget guidance over the previous several years, the transit system would have been able to have been expanded and the present financial shortfall for FY2019 would not be in play. It was the general consensus of the Advisory Committee that a conversation with the County Commissioners is necessary in order to discuss the budgetary shortfall issues, as well as the subsequent consequences over time. Mr. Jenkins entered a motion to endorse the Program of Projects for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5307 & 5339 grant application submittals as presented. Mr. Duggan seconded the motion. All were in favor. The motion was carried. Page 3 VI. Reports and Presentations a. Update on Beach Bus Ms. Arnold reported that the Beach Bus program has recently completed its second year, having shown greater success than over the previous year, owing to an improved route and frequency, as well as more timely advertising. Noted features of the program this season included: + Two beach theme wrapped busses, which included the Public Transportation logo, as well as the Tourist Development Council (TDC) logo. +No fare associated. +Operational from December 29 through April 30, 2018, with expanded hours of operation from 8:00 a.m, to 2:30 p.m., then 4:30 to 7:10 p.m., Friday through Monday. +Parking pass issued by the bus driver to allow vehicular parking in a designated area of Connor Park. +Bus route from Creekside, west on I I It" Avenue to Connor Park, to Delnor-Wiggins State Park, down Gulfshore Drive to Vanderbilt Beach, down Vanderbilt Beach Road to US 41, past the Mercato, and back to Creekside. +One of the busses would change directions in order to pick up passengers on the opposite side of the road. +20 -minute frequency, with flag down service by passengers anywhere along the route to board, or could wait at a bus stop. Mr. Dobberstein inquired as to how the service was funded since no fare was collected from passengers. Ms. Arnold stated a 3 -year grant was in place for the program, with one year remaining. The program is also supplemented by the TDC. Planning sessions for improvements to the program will be had. One feature already planned for next season involves negotiation through the Real Properties Division for the leasing of parking spaces for the duration of the beach bus service, so that residents of the eastern and southern areas of the county may park their vehicles and board the beach bus. Another potential improvement for the program next year is to increase frequency by limiting the route; one bus to the north on the east/west roadway on Bluebill/11 Its' connecting with the bus at Creekside, and the second bus running back and forth on the south end, thus limiting the service to east/west corridors. Two dedicated trolley style buses are being purchased for this program for next season. Ms. Arnold pointed out that the success of the program should not be based solely on ridership, since other variables, such as the weather and the presence of red tide heavily factored in as well. Measures of success include increased public awareness and public interest in continuation of the set -vice. Mr. DiMarco noted the significant and successful social media presence of the program this season. Page 4 Ms. Arnold stated that Geofencing technology was also utilized, which uses GPS or RFID technology to create a virtual geographic boundary, enabling software to trigger an alert when a mobile device enters or leaves a particular area, which notified smartphone users of the beach bus service. As well, the TDC ran advertisements of the service on hotel TV screens. A route map for the beach bus, which included all of the hotels along the route, was given to the hotels to hand out to their guests to access the local bus system if so desired. Mr. Jenkins suggested also possibly working with the entrepreneur program offered at Lorenzo Walker Institute to assist with promotion of the Beach Bus program. Mr. Jenkins inquired as to the potential impact that the initiative spearheaded by Governor Rick Scott may have on beach access and the Beach Bus program. Ms. Arnold stated that the largest impact will likely be felt in communities which have experienced beach erosion to the point where shoreline is now on private property; however, renourishment efforts have been ongoing on Collier County public beaches, where this initiative is felt less likely to be impactful b. Fixed Route Budget Ms. Arnold clarified that there are two separate budgets; Fund 426 for fixed route and Fund 427 for Paratransit; each having corresponding grant funds and grant matching which supports those budgets. With regard to the fixed route budget, "carryforward" of unused funds from the previous year's CAT budget has historically been used to augment the following year's budget. However, for FY2019, with increasing operating costs and insufficient carryforward to balance the budget, Section 5307 Federal Government grant dollars are required to be utilized in order to cover a projected $634K+ shortfall in Fund 426. The use of 5307 ftmds to cover operating costs also requires a local match of 50%. While this will address the current budgetary shortfall, alternate sources of revenue need to be discussed with the County Manager's office, as this is anticipated to be a recurring issue, with an estimated 2% yearly increase in operating costs versus the fixed dollars available within the budget. If alternative revenue sources are not utilized to cover operating expenses, a decrease in service will result in the form of reduced routes. Mr. Jenkins inquired as to the possibility of offering Red Coach and Greyhound Bus service at the CAT terminal on Davis Boulevard as an additional revenue stream, as well as the associated concession sales this would generate; an idea which has previously garnered some County Commissioner support. Ms. Arnold stated this idea may be pursued as an additional revenue stream; however, there is a cost involved with the necessary land use changes associated with this. Ms. Arnold discussed the advertising potential with bus wraps, as well as in the bus stop shelters, with market analysis showing that the current 25 buses and 72 shelters may potentially generate an additional annual income of approximately $200K. Similarly, leasing options to the private sector, such as Greyhound and Red Coach at transfer locations is an additional option. Mr. Jenkins suggested bench sponsorship by local businesses at high traffic bus stops which presently do not have a shelter. Page 5 A workshop with the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is presently under consideration in order to solicit feedback on these various ideas. Ms. Arnold encouraged Advisory Committee member attendance at this workshop when scheduled. Many inquiries have been received from national companies interested in advertising in the desirable Collier County market; however, the BOCC has historically not been in favor of marketing via bus wraps or advertising in bus shelters for aesthetic reasons. Advertising on the interior of the buses and buildings was discussed and has been considered, however this form of advertising would be limited in terms of population views, as it would only be seen by current ridership. Potential partnerships for advertising in certain areas, such as with Transit Network Companies (TNC), is also a consideration, i.e., Uber, Lyft. Mr. Dobberstein reiterated that more information is necessary as to how partnerships with ride sharing companies may provide additional revenue. Mr. DeLeon stated that initial conversations have been had with representatives at Lyft, who has a Public Transportation division, and discussion in this regard continues to be actively pursued. A vendor has recently been selected for mobile ticketing, with whom discussions regarding the integration of TNCs are also being had. Other ideas were discussed, such as the capability of audible advertising on the bus, which presently exists, whereby local retailer's advertisements would be triggered as the bus neared their establishment, as well as offering bus service to the airport and Germain Arena, in partnership with Lee County. Mr. Dobberstein suggested that feedback from the Commissioners be solicited prior to further planning or commitment in a particular direction. Mr. Jenkins stated that communities vastly differ in the appearance of their bus wraps and shelter advertising, and suggested several options may be presented to the Commissioners for'consideration. Ms. Arnold stated that the main point of a meeting with the BOCC would be to elucidate their vision with regard to the future growth of the bus system, i.e., being utilized by more of the local full-time residents, as well as tourists who visit, and not just residents who need to use the service. This feedback will allow for subsequent planning in terms of ways to achieve identified revenue needs, which will include a combination of grants and local dollars. Mr. Jenkins suggested that Public Transportation Staff proactively present their vision for future growth to the BOCC. Mr. Dobberstein also suggested that the point should be made that without a tax increase, decreased services will result. In summary, Ms. Arnold solicited the opinion of the Advisory Committee in terms of whether to pursue the various advertising options discussed for the potential gain of revenues versus non -consideration of this in the interest of maintaining the character of the community. Mr. Jenkins, Mr. Dobberstein, and Mr. DiMarco expressed their support of further investigation of the use of bus wraps and advertising in bus shelters, while Mr. Derru expressed concern with regard to maintaining the beautification of Naples. Page 6 Ms. Arnold shared various examples of bus advertising currently offered by the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) system, and pointed out that advertising restrictions may be placed, such as limitation of space for advertising on the side of the bus, font size, etc. Ms. Arnold concurred that the "big picture" of public transportation should be shared with the Commissioners, inclusive of the fact that ridership is down nationally; one factor being a lack of growth of the system with increased coverage and frequency, which has resulted in stagnant ridership. c. Paratransit approval process Mr. Dobberstein inquired about the 21 -day process presently in place for consideration of approval for the Paratransit program, which requires the applicant to ride a CAT bus to the Radio Road facility for a personal interview to determine eligibility. Ms. Arnold stated the application process has always been an up to 21 -day process and which previously required a 3 -day renewal, every three years. A change which has occurred is that an assessment is now done to determine which individuals may undergo a short application process upon their next renewal for recertification. Thus, if a determination is made of a permanent disability or an inability to utilize the fixed route system, that applicant may utilize the shorter application process for recertification, primarily updating personal information, destination changes, etc. The length of time is primarily for the benefit of the applicant so that all appropriate documentation may be obtained and submitted. Mr. DeLeon stated that a face to face assessment is common procedure among transit agencies. Ms. Arnold added that a Rider's Guide and instructional video are found on the website: Mr. Dobberstein also inquired as to the proof of income information required, which Ms. Arnold stated is outlined on the application. Mr. Jenkins expressed his concern at the length of time it presently takes to complete the assessment and approval process for Paratransit participation. Mr. Jenkins stated a 10 - day free pass should be given to applicants for transportation use during the assessment/application process. Ms. Arnold stated the Division must work within State guidelines, and also in order to retain grant status eligibility. Mr. Dobberstein stated that better communication of the application and approval process to healthcare workers in the field is necessary, so that they may better educate their patients. Ms. Arnold stated that communication is done with various rehab agencies and hospitals, and applications are left at these facilities as well, often with medical staff assisting patients with the application process. It was reiterated that the user guide and application are found on the County website, and that it is the responsibility of the Local Coordinating Board (LCB) to oversee the application process, eligibility, criteria, etc., for Paratransit. Mr. Jenkins remarked upon the relative ease of the process to acquire a handicap parking placard through the Driver's License Bureau and questioned why there is such a lengthy review and approval process to utilize the Paratransit system, which is offered as a public service. Page 7 Mr. DiMarco noted that the processing of his personal applications for Paratransit use took approximately the same length of time through Collier, Lee, and Orange Counties, and all in less than 21 days. Ms. Arnold clarified that the regulations stipulate that the entire process may not exceed 21 days. Further, the assessment which is performed is not for a determination of disability, but rather of whether or not an individual is capable of utilizing the fixed route system. Mr. Duggan discussed parallels between the eligibility assessment process for Paratransit and the Special Education program within the public - school system. Mr. Jenkins stated that as applicants are not abusing the system, the service should be made more easily accessible. Ms. Arnold reiterated that the program has been modified in that an assessment historically was required every three years, however if approval is granted following the appropriate review and assessment, only a much simpler one to two-page form must be completed for renewal. Further, accommodating measures are taken for individuals too fragile to initiate the process. Mr. Dobberstein expressed his concern regarding non-ambulatory patients who are released from medical facilities and who have no means of transportation home. Mr. DeLeon remarked upon the need to follow the guidelines of the process in terms of fairness to all applicants, which is also reviewed during an audit; that all applicants are receiving equal treatment. Staff makes every effort to follow up with applicants with regard to missing documentation, etc., in order to ensure timely processing. Mr. Barry Bland added that consideration of taxpayers is a factor as well, and not providing services to an individual for a length of time prior to confirming eligibility and who ultimately may be denied. Mr. Bland offered to present the certification process to the Advisory Committee as an agenda item at a subsequent meeting. VII. Member Comments There were no additional member comments. VIII. Public Comments There were no comments from members of the public. IX. Next Meeting Date — June 19, 2018 at 3:00 p.m. X. Adjournment There being no further business for the good of the County, the meeting was adjourned by order of the Chair. Public Transit Advisory Committee i John DiMarco, Chairman These minutes approved by the Board/Committee on presented or as amended Page 8