JACKSON – The Northampton County Board of Commissioners approved a contract, which includes a rate increase, with the Choanoke Public Transportation Authority (CPTA).

On Monday the board approved the contract in a 3-1 vote. The contract states the rate will jump from $9.35 to $9.63 per unit for the 2012-13 fiscal year. A unit is defined as a one-way trip.

Sealed proposals for the services were requested by the Northampton County Office on Aging to provide transportation for senior citizens to nutrition sites and medical appointments.

Office on Aging Director Debra Warren noted CPTA was the only agency to submit a sealed proposal as it is the only transit authority that serves Northampton County for the aforementioned services.

“Gas is coming down,” said Commissioner Chester Deloatch. “Why do they want to go up?”

Warren indicated she did not have a reason for the increase.

Commission Chairwoman Virginia Spruill stated for previous increases CPTA presented the matter to the board.

“They stopped coming,” she said.

Warren said two or three years ago she along with County Manager Wayne Jenkins spoke to CPTA officials about the increases.

“We would certainly appreciate it if they came and made that request themselves so we can ask the questions that have been asked this morning,” Spruill said.

Warren said a presentation with CPTA officials could be arranged.

Commissioner Vice Chairman Robert Carter moved to approve the contract with CPTA. Commissioner Fannie Greene offered a seconded and the motion carried in a 3-1 vote with Deloatch voicing the only objection.