Rate hike sparks debate
Published Thursday, June 18, 2009
JACKSON — The Northampton County Board of Commissioners are studying the possibility of creating their own transportation system following another hike in fees from the Choanoke Public Transportation Authority.
On Monday, the commissioners approved an agreement between CPTA and the Office on Aging for the new fiscal year.
However, before the decision was made the commissioners made it clear about how they felt about the fee increases and discussed the possibility of implementing their own transportation for those who utilize the service.
The contract between CPTA and the Office on Aging provides transportation to seniors for congregate nutrition (at the Faison Senior Center in Jackson) and medical appointments. A $29,000 grant, with a 10 percent match, provides funding for the transportation.
According to Office on Aging Director Debbie Warren the CPTA rates are increasing from $8.44 to $8.69 per unit (defined as a one-way trip).
“This is the only choice we have for services,” said Warren, referring to the fact that CPTA is the only public transportation in the county.
Warren said the last rate increase came in January and was $6.75 before it jumped to $8.44.
The rate has been steadily on rise; since 2005 it has jumped $3.09.
“When we (Warren and County Manager Wayne Jenkins) went to talk with them one thing they assured us was that when gas prices went down (the rate) would go down,” Warren said about the last increase.
Commission Chair Robert Carter questioned if the approval of the agreement was binding for 12 months.
Later in the discussion it was discovered there is a termination clause in the contract where either party can end the agreement at anytime.
Carter asked Jenkins how long it would take to study the possibility of the county providing transportation.
“I can tell you when it can’t be done by,” he answered. “It can’t be done by July 1 (the start of the new fiscal year).”
“Right now we don’t have any choice (but to agree to the contract),” said Commissioner James Hester.
Commissioner Virginia Spruill suggested the board approve the contract and coordinate something for next fiscal year.
The commissioners asked if the rate was negotiable.
“It was non-negotiable as of January (of this year),” said Jenkins.
“If they have an idea that we’re going in another direction, it might be negotiable,” said Spruill.
Hester said CPTA could also cancel the contract.
“And then we’re up a creek without a paddle,” he said.
Jenkins also noted the county has no appropriation earmarked for CPTA in their upcoming budget.
After more discussion, Hester motioned to approve the contract, Spruill offered a second. Additionally, the commissioners directed Jenkins and Warren to negotiate the rate with CPTA.
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