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Transit Authority Seeks Committee Members
August 14, 2007
(Tri-Cities, WA) – The Ben Franklin Transit Authority is seeking members for their Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC). The CAC advocates for public transit and serves as a resource to the Ben Franklin Transit Board of Directors. Committee members meet monthly working to improve the quality of service for transit riders, and offer suggestions and feedback to the Transit Board.
Most recently, the community-based Citizens Advisory Committee worked to extend the hours of Ben Franklin Transit's night service, assisted with transit rider surveys to assess user needs, bid for and hosted the 2006 Washington Citizens Advisory Committee Conference in the Tri-Cities, and made recommendations to the Board of Directors to reduce local commuter trip times.
The Ben Franklin Transit Board is seeking additional CAC members to represent municipal groups; community and ethnic based agencies; medical, financial, senior and recreational organizations; educational institutions; law enforcement; and those who utilize specialized transit services (e.g. Dial-A-Ride or Van Pool). Input from representatives of these varied groups of people helps to expand the effectiveness of transit service being provided community wide. Local agencies are encouraged to recommend representatives for membership.
Individuals wishing to serve on the Citizens Advisory Committee should contact Ben Franklin Transit's Business Office by calling 734-5126 for an application.
Ben Franklin Transit First To Use Blend Of Biodiesel & Ethanol
Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) in Richland, Washington is the first transit agency in the United States, and quite possibly the world, to use a blend of two clean and renewable fuels – Biodiesel and Ethanol. Both fuels can be developed from crops grown domestically for energy or "bioenergy" which is energy derived from biological and renewable sources.
Until now biodiesel and ethanol were used only as separate fuel supplements, but because of an emulsion made by O˛Diesel of Newark, Delaware BFT can now cross blend these two fuels with the federally mandated Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD).
This composite fuel enables Ben Franklin Transit to address the short comings of ULSD by creating a fuel that provides the needed lubrication qualities of previously available diesel and a fuel that will flow at minus 20 degrees without additional additives. The fuel is being blended for Ben Franklin Transit by Connell Oil and consists of 71% ULSD, 20% Bio, 7.7% Ethanol and the remainder O˛Diesel. This equates to a 28% reduction in fossil fuel. The new blend also promises to reduce C0˛ and other emissions.
Under a grant from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory starting in January 2007 Ben Franklin Transit is conducting a 210-day operational assessment of the fuel blend. The test uses 20 vehicles that represent four different chassis manufacturers, running six different diesel engines ranging in age from 1988 to 2006. BFT will then gather operational data during the winter months where temperatures can drop well below freezing, and into the summer months when temperatures can rise to triple digits.
Preliminary results were made public at a news conference on March 7, 2007.
The speakers were Tim Fredrickson – Ben Franklin Transit General Manager, Richard Ciccone, Ben Franklin Transit Special Projects Manager, Kristin Eby - Representative for Senator Maria Cantwell, Dr. David Lauer – Benton County Clean Air Authority,
Dr. Ashok Alva – U.S. Department of Agriculture and Rick Roger – President of 0˛Diesel.
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BEN FRANKLIN TRANSIT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
JANUARY 10, 2008
1. Convene/Roll Call: MATT WATKINS, BOB OLSON, STEVE BECKEN, NEVA CORKRUM, LYNN JOHNSON, LEO BOWMAN, BOB KOCH, (Dale Jackson, excused), (Robert Thompson, not present)
Staff: Tim Fredrickson, Dick Ciccone, Rob Orvis, Terry DeJuan, Allen Walch, Ed Frost, Dave Rodrick, Christy Watts, Debra Hughes, Susan Snowdy, Patrick T. Roach, BFT Legal Counsel
2. Citizen’s Public Comment/Introduction of Visitors - Gretchen Strother, Jack Kalia/CAC Members, Debbie Orvis
CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated that anyone wishing to address the Board on a topic not listed on the agenda should state their name and address for the record. No public comment was given.
3. Approval of Agenda
CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated that the materials on the desk tonight are additional Staff Reports. No changes to the agenda are required. He called for a motion to approve the agenda as presented.
ACTION: BOB KOCH made and BOB OLSON seconded a motion to approve the Agenda of the Regular BFT Board of Directors Meeting as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
4. Board Committee Reports
A. Planning & Marketing Committee/Matt Watkins, Chair
Meeting canceled – no report.
B. Operations & Maintenance Committee/Neva Corkrum, Chair
Meeting canceled – no report.
C. Administration & Finance Committee/Dale Jackson, Chair
Meeting canceled – no report.
D. Ad Hoc Capital Facilities Committee/Leo Bowman, Chair
(Minutes of Jan. 3rd meeting included)
CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated that the Capital Facilities Committee met on Thursday, January 3, 2008 4:30 p.m. The notes of that meeting are in tonight’s Board Packet for reference. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated that the group talked about the FTA 5309 Construction Grant Application, which is an action item on tonight’s agenda. The group discussed the Columbia Park Trail Park & Ride Lot, TRAC Park & Ride Lot, MOA Bus Wash Facilities Construction, BFT’s Capital Needs Projects (a 6-10 year program 2008-2018), and the latest MOA Admin building programming. It was a good meeting, Lots of information to share since the Committee last met. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN asked if anyone had questions. There were no questions or further discussion.
5. Consent Agenda (any item is open for Board Discussion upon request)
A. Minutes of December 13, 2007 Regular Board of Directors Meeting
B. Payroll/Voucher Summary
*Vouchers audited and certified by the auditing officer, as required by RCW 42.24.080, and those expense reimbursement claims certified as required by RCW 42.24.090, have been recorded on a listing which was mailed to the Board Members Jan. 4, 2008.
Check
Register Check in the
Number Number/Number amount of
124-07 Electronic 07-Dec-07 $110,853.17 Payroll
125-07 063189-063262 07-Dec-07 318,068.47 Payroll
128-07 Electronic 21-Dec-07 115,154.75 Payroll
129-07 063263-063339 22-Dec-07 331,607.38 Payroll
Total $875,683.77
126-07 030406-030500 37-Dec-07 $436,944.80 Mdse
127-07 030501-030563 14-Dec-07 350,222.34 Mdse
130-07 030564-030628 21-Dec-07 287,717.46 Mdse
131-07 Electronic Excise Tax 26-Dec-07 3,477.32 Mdse
132-07 030629-030666 28-Dec-07 61,991.87 Mdse
Total $1,140,353.79
Check Register Numbers 124-07 to 132-07
In the total amount of : $2,016,037.56
CHAIRMAN BOWMAN called for a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented.
ACTION: BOB OLSON made and STEVE BECKEN seconded a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
6. Action Items
A. FTA 5309 Construction Grant Application Process and Timeline
Approval to hold Public Hearing January 28, 2008
Ed Frost, Transit Development Manager, stated that approval to conduct a Public Hearing on the Grant Application is the request tonight. He referred to a flow chart depicting the FTA 5309 Grant Application process and timeline. The Public Hearing, if approved, will be held on Monday, January 28, 2008, 6:00 p.m. at Three Rivers Transit Center, 7109 West Okanogan Place, Kennewick, WA. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN mentioned that he saw the name Jimmy Hoffa listed under Union Information on the first page of the U.S. Department of Transportation FTA Grant Application. Ed Frost stated yes, that is correct. Each Union BFT is affiliated with has the opportunity to provide support for grants at the national level. BFT has received their approval. There was no further discussion. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN called for a motion. The following action was taken:
ACTION: LYNN JOHNSON made and STEVE BECKEN seconded a motion to grant approval for BFT Staff to conduct a Public Hearing on January 28, 2008, to receive input on the FTA 5309 Construction Grant Application. MOTION CARRIED.
B. Resolution 1-2008 – Authorizing the General Manager to enter into an
Inter-Local Governmental Agreement with Community Transit for the
Leasing of Vanpool Vans
Timothy J. Fredrickson, General Manager, stated that BFT Staff recommends approval of an agreement with Community Transit for leasing vanpool vehicles. He invited Dave Rodrick to comment further. Dave Rodrick, Rideshare Supervisor, stated that tonight’s request is a re-run of last month when BFT asked for approval to lease vans from METRO and WSDOT. Currently the BFT Vanpool inventory is exhausted. The Vanpool waiting list has 15 groups on it right now. We received 12 lease vehicles from WSDOT recently, but need more. New markets are developing for Vanpool and the lease of vans from Community Transit is much less cost than renting vans from the private sector. BFT Vanpool plans to purchase 30 Growth Vans from the State with their funding, and approximately 77 replacement vans with FTA funding in 2008, but these vehicles won’t arrive until May 2008. Thank you for your consideration of tonight’s request.
CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated that Benton County is using regular vans instated of 15-passenger vehicles. Dave Rodrick stated that BFT has done business with the folks he (CHARIMAN BOWMAN) refers to for about 1 ˝ years. Some people prefer a smaller vehicle. It all depends on the needs of the customers. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN called for motion. The following action was taken:
ACTION: MATT WATKINS made and BOB OLSON seconded a motion to approve Resolution 1-2008 as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
C. Resolution 2-2008 – Authorizing the General Manager to extend the
Contract with Kadlec Hospital for Vanpool Vehicle (3 years)
Dave Rodrick stated that BFT Vanpool and the Kadlec Medical Center (KMC) have worked in partnership to provide rides to KMC employees and clients on the KMC campus since 2006. BFT’s insurance carrier has recently identified the KMC as a Limited Mode Service Provider and has mandated a three-year contract update be completed by January 31, 2008. The renewal is a mirror image of the first contract. Vanpool Staff recommends the Board authorize the General Manager to renew this contract with Resolution 2-2008 for three years. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated that the contract renewal is substantially the same as the previous contract. He called for a motion. The following action was taken:
ACTION: MATT WATKINS made and BOB KOCH seconded a motion to approve Resolution 2-2008 as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
D. Resolution 3-2008 – Authorizing the General Manager to extend the
Contract with Columbia Industries (1 year)
Tim Fredrickson stated that the memo and resolution state the issue. Tim Fredrickson stated that while he was conducting an inspection of facilities today, he heard some compliments from BFT Operator’s about the work that Columbia Industries provides for the cleaning of the Transit Centers and grounds. Staff recommends approval of Resolution 3-2008. There was no discussion. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN called for a motion. The following action was taken:
ACTION: BOB OLSON made and STEVE BECKEN seconded a motion to approve Resolution 3-2008 as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
7. Discussion/Information Items
A. CAC Update – Notes of December 10th meeting (handed out at Dec. 13 Board Meeting)
Tim Fredrickson stated that two members of the CAC are here tonight. Gretchen Strother, Chair, and Jack Kalia, Member. The next meeting of the CAC will be held on Monday, January 14, 2008 at Three Rivers Transit Center. Tim Fredrickson asked for additional comments. Gretchen Strother stated that the CAC group is looking forward to a presentation from Christy Watts, Marketing/Customer Service Supervisor. Christy will present the 2008 Marketing Plan.
B. Drafts of 2008 BFT Board Roster, Board/Staff Standing Committees, and
Activity Calendar
CHAIRMAN BOWMAN asked that the Pager Number be removed from his contact information. Susan Snowdy, Executive Assistant and Clerk of the Board, stated that she will remove the pager number. She noted that the documents are no longer presented in DRAFT. For planning purposes, Board Members may use the meeting dates listed on the Standing Committee sheet and the Activity Calendar information for their computer or print calendars. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN asked that any Board Member wishing to make changes to their Committee Assignments to let him know. Tim Fredrickson stated for the Board/Staff Activity Calendar that the WSTA Annual Meeting will most likely coincide with the Washington State Department of Transportation Conference, which will be held here in the Tri-Cities at the Three Rivers Convention Center the first part of September 2008.
C. Board/Staff Retreat, Sat. February 9, 2008/3 Rivers Transit Center
Tim Fredrickson stated that the Board/Staff Retreat has been scheduled for Saturday, February 9, 2008 at Three Rivers Transit Center Conference Room. The start time will be 9:00 a.m. Staff has secured the same facilitator, Mark Gladstone, that we have used the last two years to assist with the discussions. Tim Fredrickson stated that he has put together a draft agenda very similar to last year and will go over it with CHAIRMAN BOWMAN. He has sent out the draft to Staff for review as well. Staff will give brief reports. Ed Frost-Six-Year Plan process; Rick Burnett-Dial-A-Ride / FTA vs. Standards – reality of putting the reigns on costs; Tim Fredrickson-Capital Needs; if it can be arranged – a teleconference with Dale Learn, Federal Legislative Representative. The start time for the Retreat is set for 9:00 a.m. The end time on the draft agenda is 2:30 p.m. MATT WATKINS stated that the Benton-Franklin County Caucuses are on Saturday, Feb. 9 at 1:30 p.m.
D. APTA Legislative Conference, Washington, DC, March 9-11, 2008
Tim Fredrickson stated that the 2008 APTA Legislative Conference will be held in Washington, DC, March 9-11. We have a meeting confirmed with Representative Richard “Doc” Hastings on Tuesday, March 11, 2008, 11:00 a.m. Appointments with either Senator’s Murray/Cantwell or their Legislative Assistants for Transportation will be made soon.
E. BFT Employee Awards Banquet, Saturday, April 19, 2008, at TRAC
Tim Fredrickson stated that we look forward to having the Awards Banquet back on the calendar. Please mark the date now for planning purposes. Christy Watts stated as a reminder that the theme is Country/Western. There will be a mechanical bull there for those interested in trying their riding skills and a Country Western band. It will be a lot of fun.
8. Staff Reports & Comments
A. Legal Report
Patrick T. Roach, BFT Legal Counsel stated that there will not be an Executive Session tonight. No real legal report. However, there is a report of interest. An attorney, William B. Knowles, in 2004 represented some BFT employees in a dispute over some employment issues. You may recall that BFT won that case at the Superior Court level. Knowles appealed the case to the Court of Appeals. During the time that the case was at the Court of Appeals, Knowles had to leave the case because he got into trouble with the law. As a matter of public interest, let it be known that one of BFT’s adversaries is now in the penitentiary.
B. Treasurer’s/Budget/Boardings/Sales Tax/Fuel Management Reports
Allen Walch, Administrative Services Manager, stated that the latest Treasurer’s Report was not available for tonight’s meeting. The Budget Report for November 30, 2007 was included in the Board Packet. The Boardings Report for December is on the desk tonight. There was a brief general discussion regarding the boardings report. Ed Frost stated that his take on the decrease in bus ridership is based on three factors: 1)Raised fares 18 percent; 2)Eliminated free Saturday’s; 3)Eliminated overload buses January through April. The overload service was then restored. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated that one can look at the Boardings Report and see that ridership was down then went back up.
Allen Walch stated that the Sales Tax Report by entities was distributed in the Board Packet. The Staff Contest (guessing what the sales tax increase/decrease will be) winner was Debra Hughes, HR Manager. Debra’s guess was 14 percent – sales tax report came in at 13.34 percent.
The Forward Fixed-price “Swap” Fuel Risk Management Program is currently $32,000 positive. Staff is still working on this year’s price. Tim Fredrickson stated that the program participants are waiting for things to settle down with pricing. The transit systems participating in the Fuel Risk Management Program will be setting a conference call to set the price in the near future.
C. General Manager’s Report
ITEMS IN PACKET (8D):
• News Release – BFT Officials express appreciation for Senator Murray’s help. Thanks were also given to Senator Cantwell and Representative “Doc” Hastings.
• Transit tax back on ballot for Spokane Transit Authority
Tim Fredrickson stated that Spokane Transit will ask the public for additional sales tax in May 2008. The citizens of Spokane had a discussion with the Board of Directors about the future of public transportation and decided to put the sale tax to a vote. BFT wishes Spokane Transit the best. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated that a young lady is the General Manager, right? Tim Fredrickson answered yes, her name is Susan Meyer. Tim Fredrickson stated that the WSTA Annual Meeting was held in Spokane and he had the opportunity to tour the Spokane area and visit with Susan Meyer. Tim Fredrickson stated that he believes Susan Meyer is doing a good job at Spokane Transit.
ITEMS ON DESK:
• December Boardings Report
CALENDAR ITEMS:
• APTA CEO’s Seminar Jan. 25-30 in Orland, FL
• Appointment requests have been emailed to Senator’s Murray/Cantwell and Representative Hastings in conjunction with APTA’s Legislative Conference in Washington, DC March 9-11, 2008
• One appointment confirmed to date: Representative Hastings on Tues. March 11, 11:00 a.m.
VERBAL REPORT:
• We were very saddened to learn of the passing of John Escure, General Manager at Grant Transit in Ephrata, WA. John had been working for Grant Transit for about 12 years. Brandy Heston, Administrative Assistant, has talked to Allen Walch about accounting and grants matters. BFT Staff will assist Grant Transit any way we can while they search for a new manager.
• Congratulations are in order for Barbara Hays, Operations Manager. Barbara is grandmother a second time to a new grandson born on her birthday in Las Vegas, NV, so she is there visiting with family. CHAIRMAN BOWMAN stated his congratulations too.
9. Board Member Comments
MATT WATKINS – Thanked Staff for rearranging the agenda reports listing the legal report ahead of Staff reports. Pasco has a new council member. The new high school – Chiawana High School – walls are going up. This is good news.
STEVE BECKEN – Prosser has two new council members and a new mayor. There was yelling going on at the first council meeting.
BOB OLSON – Once again he can report that he was witness to a Dial-A-Ride Driver doing a great job providing good service to a customer. The Drivers loaded up the lady’s laundry too. Taking good care of the customers – good job!
BOB KOCH – No comment.
LYNN JOHNSON – Things are going well in Benton City. There is some reorganization going on. He has been appointed Deputy Mayor. The Council has three new members. There are some good and positive attitudes about the future of Benton City. They will be moving forward.
NEVA CORKRUM – Expressed her hope that the injured vanpool van passengers are doing well. Neva Corkrum asked Board members and Staff to get together after the meeting to talk about the TRAC Park and Ride lot then present their findings to the full Board later on.
LEO BOWMAN – Reminder – the Board/Staff Retreat will be held here at Three Rivers Transit Center on Saturday, February 9, 2008, start time 9:00 a.m. Expressed his thanks to Board Members and Staff for a great 2007. Congratulations on everyone’s good work. He is looking forward to a great year in 2008 too. Maybe we will be successful in getting our grants and congressional priorities funding to help us with our goals of providing the best public transportation ever to our customers.
10. Next Meeting – February 14, 2008 – 7:00 p.m. at Three Rivers Transit Center, 7109 W Okanogan Place, Kennewick, WA.
11. Executive Session – None.
12. Adjournment – CHAIRMAN BOWMAN promptly adjourned the Regular Meeting of the Ben Franklin Transit Board of Directors at 7:38 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by:
Susan Snowdy, Exec. Assistant/Clerk of the Board
February 14, 2008
BEN FRANKLIN TRANSIT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
DECEMBER 13, 2007
1. Convene/Roll Call: MATT WATKINS, BOB OLSON, DALE JACKSON, STEVE BECKEN, NEVA CORKRUM, (Leo Bowman, Lynn Johnson, Bob Thompson, Bob Koch, excused)
VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON called for a motion to excuse Board Members noted above.
ACTION: MATT WATKINS made and STEVE BECKEN seconded a motion to excuse the absence of Board Members identified in the Roll Call. MOTION CARRIED.
Staff: Tim Fredrickson, Allen Walch, Ed Frost, Dave Rodrick, Rob Orvis, Debra Hughes, Christy Watts, Dick Ciccone, Susan Snowdy, (Patrick T. Roach, BFT Legal Counsel, excused)
2. Citizen’s Public Comment/Introduction of Visitors - Myron Traeger/CAC Member, Verna K. Traeger, Gretchen Strother/CAC Member, Daile Prettyman, Coach Operator
VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON stated that anyone wishing to address the Board on a topic not listed on the agenda should state their name and address for the record. No public comment was given.
3. Approval of Agenda
VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON stated that the materials on the desk tonight are Staff Reports. No changes to the agenda are required. He called for a motion to approve the agenda as presented.
ACTION: BOB OLSON made and NEVA CORKRUM seconded a motion to approve the Agenda of the Regular BFT Board of Directors Meeting as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
4. Retirement Recognition – Daile Prettyman, Coach Operator
Resolution 46-2007
ACTION: BOB OLSON made and STEVE BECKEN seconded a motion to approve Resolution 46-2007 as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON stated that it is enjoyable to celebrate times of leaving even though they may be bittersweet and full of mixed emotions. He expressed his congratulations to Daile Prettyman who he called forward to receive a Certificate of Commendation and a life time bus pass. Photos were taken by Christy Watts, Marketing/Customer Service Supervisor. VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON read the resolution which was written by Barbara Hays, Operations Manager. The Board Members echoed the VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON’S sentiments expressing their best wishes for an enjoyable retirement. Dale Prettyman remarked that getting the life time bus pass must make him a senior citizen, right. Daile Prettyman shook hands with Board Member and Staff expressing his thanks to BFT.
5. Board Committee Reports
A. Planning & Marketing Committee/Matt Watkins, Chair
MATT WATKINS stated that the Committee met on Tuesday, December 4, 2007. MATT WATKINS apologized for not attending. The meeting notes were included in the Board Packet for reference. MATT WATKINS stated that he is glad to see the Marketing Budget back to a normal level. The $60,000 for transit travel training to encourage Dial-A-Ride customers, who are able, to use fixed route service is a good plan. It will relieve some of the demand for Dial-A-Ride service, which will continue to grow as the Tri-Cities population ages.
B. Operations & Maintenance Committee/Neva Corkrum, Chair
NEVA CORKRUM stated that the Operations & Maintenance Committee met at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 5th. LEO BOWMAN, Board Chair, attended as a guest member. The Committee discussed the following: Budget revisions – recommended the Action Agenda; heard from Ed Frost on results of the General Awareness Survey – BFT still retains a good reputation with customers; Update on West Richland Route 10 from Ed Frost – the hybrid route is working well enough that Staff is looking into implementing this model on other routes. BOB OLSON asked how the customers feel about Route 10. Ed Frost stated that all seems to be going very well. The Committee discussed a few consent agenda items, which were reviewed by Committee. NEVA CORKRUM stated that LEO BOWMAN, Board Chair, asked that if any Board Member has a desire to become the BFT Board Chair in February 2008, to let him know. NEVA CORKRUM stated that she will support LEO BOWMAN to continue as the Board Chair. NEVA CORKRUM stated that the notes from the meeting were included in the Board Packet for reference.
C. Administration & Finance Committee/Dale Jackson, Chair
DALE JACKSON stated that the Admin & Finance Committee met on Thursday, Dec. 6th. Their Committee covered most of the same items as the other Committees. Unless there are questions, the notes were included in the Board packet.
D. Ad Hoc Capital Facilities Committee/Leo Bowman, Chair
No report. Committee did not meet.
6. Consent Agenda (any item is open for Board Discussion upon request)
A. Minutes of November 8, 2007 Regular Board of Directors Meeting
B. Payroll/Voucher Summary
C. Resolution 47-2007 – Authorizing the General Manager to file FTA 5307 Grant
Application WA-90-X416 for fixed route buses, demand response vehicles,
Mobile data terminals, radios, and vanpool vehicles
D. Resolution 48-2007 – Authorizing the General Manager to extend the
Contract with The ARC of Tri-Cities for the purchase of boardings for ADA
Eligible clients until December 31, 2008
E. Resolution 49-2007 – Authorizing the General Manager to enter into a
Contract with the ARC of Tri-Cities for leasing vanpool vehicles
F. Resolution 50-2007 – Authorizing the General Manager to amend Contract
#774 with Tri-City Taxi to add Out-of-Boundary ADA Paratransit Service
G. Resolution 51-2007 – Establishing Salary & Benefit Schedule for non-
Represented Employees of BFT
H. Approval of Benton-Franklin Council of Governments (BFCOG) 2008
Annual Dues Assessment
I. Resolution 53-2007 – Authorizing the General Manager to renew the Contract
With Fleet-Net Corporation to support the Operations, Maintenance, and
Administration Computer System
J. Resolution 54-2007 – Authorizing the filing of applications with the State of
Washington administered by the Washington State Department of
Transportation (WSDOT)
*Vouchers audited and certified by the auditing officer, as required by RCW 42.24.080, and those expense reimbursement claims certified as required by RCW 42.24.090, have been recorded on a listing which was mailed to the Board Members Dec. 7, 2007.
Check
Register Check in the
Number Number/Number amount of
115-07 Electronic 09-Nov-07 $116,862.28 Payroll
116-07 062966-063103 12-Oct-07 327,935.72 Payroll
119-07 Electronic 08-Oct-07 114,354.02 Payroll
120-07 063104-063188 26-Oct-07 318,557.92 Payroll
Total $877,709.94
112-07 030051-030051 30-Oct-07 $ 84,944.77 Mdse
113-07 030052-030111 02-Nov-07 169,310.18 Mdse
114-07 030112-030112 05-Nov-07 735.79 Mdse
117-07 030113-030215 09-Nov-07 508,304.36 Mdse
118-07 030216-030276 16-Nov-07 234,281.67 Mdse
121-07 030277-030345 23-Nov-07 317,305.62 Mdse
122-07 Electronic Excise tax 26-Nov-07 3,986.29 Mdse
123-07 030346-030405 30-Nov-07 142,985.77 Mdse
Total $1,461,854.36
Check Register Numbers 112-07 to 123-07
In the total amount of : $2,339,564.30
VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON called for a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented.
ACTION: BOB OLSON made and NEVA CORKRUM seconded a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
7. Action Items
A. Resolution 55-2007 – Adoption of the 2008 Operating & Capital Budget
Timothy J. Fredrickson, General Manager, stated that the Budget materials were included in the Board Packet. The latest revisions, Report #15 gives an overview of recent changes. Allen Walch, Administrative Services Manager, stated that recent changes included adding grant money and the BFCOG dues. Tim Fredrickson noted that State law requires an adopted Budget. VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON asked if there were questions or further discussion. Hearing none, he called for a motion to adopt the BFT 2008 Operating & Capital Budget as presented.
ACTION: MATT WATKINS made and STEVE BECKEN seconded a motion to approve Resolution 2007 as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
B. Resolution 56-2007 – Authorizing the General Manager to enter into a
Contract with the Washington State Department of Transportation
WSDOT for leasing Vanpool Vans
Dave Rodrick, Rideshare Supervisor, stated that BFT’s fleet is 263 vans with 241 currently in revenue service. This leaves only a 6% spare ratio with 14 groups on waiting lists. We are out of inventory. The lease requests tonight will add enough vehicles to satisfy customers in the short term. BOB OLSON asked how long until BFT gets the vehicles. Dave Rodrick stated that the vendor will get the vehicles here as soon as possible. MATT WATKINS recalled that BFT bought vans and now we’re out. Dave Rodrick stated, yes. In fact we are taking vanpool vehicles out of surplus and temporarily placing them back in revenue service. BOB OLSON asked about the construction project in Moses Lake. Dave Rodrick stated that the Silica Plant project in Moses Lake projects 800 craftspeople on the job by summer 2008.
ACTION: MATT WATKINS made and STEVE BECKEN seconded a motion to approve Resolution 56-2007 as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
C. Resolution 57-2007 – Authorizing the General Manager to enter into an
Inter-Local Governmental Agreement with King County METRO for
Leasing Vanpool Vans
Dave Rodrick stated that this request has the same story – looking for more vanpool vehicles from other agencies to fill the gap until BFT can get more growth vans from the State with their funding.
ACTION: STEVE BECKEN made and BOB OLSON seconded a motion to approve Resolution 57-2007 as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
D. Resolution 58-2007 – Authorizing the General Manager to enter into an
Agreement with the Washington State Department of Transportation
(WSDOT) for a Vanpool Grant Program for Public Transit Agencies
Dave Rodrick stated that BFT plans to purchase 30 Growth vans from the State with their funding, and approximately 77 replacement vans with FTA funding in 2008. The projected arrival of new replacement vans is May of 2008. Over the last three years the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has authorized the purchase of vanpool vehicles through the Statewide Vanpool Investment Program. BFT Staff has been notified that we can receive a grant valued up to $780,000 for up to 30 vans under agreement #GCA-5615. BFT’s local match is 25% or $195,000 over five years that must be reinvested into the local vanpool program. BFT must also place the vans into service within twenty-four months from delivery date. Tim Fredrickson state that BFT could apply funding to Operations or Capital. For example, the money could be used on the Columbia Park Trail Park & Ride Lot across from the BFT MOA headquarter facilities. Tim Fredrickson also stated that BFT’s Vanpool Operation is very close to being the third largest Vanpool Fleet in the Pacific Northwest.
ACTION: MATT WATKINS made and STEVE BECKEN seconded a motion to approve Resolution 58-2007 as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
E. Approval of Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) applicants for membership
Tim Fredrickson stated that the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) has brought forward three applications for members. The CAC Nominating Committee has reviewed the applications, and recommending approval by the BFT Board. Tim Fredrickson invited Gretchen Strother, CAC member, to speak on behalf of the CAC. Gretchen Strother stated the names of the applicants as follows:
• Mildred Walton is a long-time advocate of public transportation and has an extensive experience as a volunteer
• Kevin Wheelwright rides 3 buses each day to his job in North Richland and has converted several co-workers to ride the bus to work
• Lora Merrow has attended the majority of CAC meetings since November 2006 and brings good ideas and other input valued to be an asset to the CAC
ACTION: MATT WATKINS made and NEVA CORKRUM seconded a motion to approve the three applicants for membership to the BFT Citizens Advisory Committee as presented. MOTION CARRIED.
8. Discussion/Information Items
A. CAC Update – Notes of November 12 meeting included
Tim Fredrickson stated that the notes of the November 12, 2007 CAC Committee meeting was included in the Board Packet. The notes of the December 10, 2007 CAC meeting are on the desk tonight. The next meeting of the CAC will be held on Monday, January 14, 2008 at Three Rivers Transit Center. Gretchen Strother, CAC Member, is here tonight. Tim Fredrickson asked for additional comments. Gretchen Strother stated that Allen Walch made a presentation at the December 10, 2007 meeting on the 2008 Budget Goals and Work Plan. The CAC has been focusing on increasing membership. The goal of the CAC for 2008 is to have a better understanding the BFT Budget process. CAC members are encouraged to become active in BFT events, and become more involved and educate ourselves on legislative matters both locally and nationally. Tim Fredrickson stated that the Budget materials will be given out to the CAC earlier next year. Allen Walch has agreed to do his presentation of the Budget work in the October 2008 timeframe. VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON stated, good job to all.
B. Drafts of 2008 BFT Board Roster, Board/Staff Standing Committees, and
Activity Calendar
Tim Fredrickson stated that the Board Roster, Standing Committee list, and BFT Board/Staff Activity Calendar are presented for review and comment. They are still in draft form, so if changes are wanted or needed, i.e., change in meeting date, time, etc., please contact Susan Snowdy, Executive Assistant, Clerk of the Board.
NEVA CORKRUM asked if LYNN JOHNSON is still her alternate to the Benton-Franklin Council of Governments meetings. Susan Snowdy stated, yes.
C. Board/Staff Retreat, Sat. February 9, 2008/3 Rivers Transit Center
Tim Fredrickson stated that the Board/Staff Retreat has been scheduled for Saturday, February 9, 2008 at Three Rivers Transit Center Conference Room. The start time will be 9:00 a.m. Staff has secured the same facilitator that we have used the last two years to assist with the discussions. Staff is working on the agenda. VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON recalled there was a discussion at the November Board meeting about the possibility of having Dale Learn, BFT’s Legislative Representative, attend next year’s retreat. The conclusion, if he recalls correctly, was that Dale Learn will visit the retreat telephonically. Tim Fredrickson stated, yes that is correct.
D. APTA Legislative Conference, Washington, DC, March 9-11, 2008
Tim Fredrickson stated that the 2008 APTA Legislative Conference will be held in Washington, DC, March 9-11.
D. BFT Employee Awards Banquet, Saturday, April 19, 2008, at TRAC
Tim Fredrickson stated that we look forward to having the Awards Banquet back on the calendar. Please mark the date now for planning purposes. Christy Watts stated as a reminder that the theme is Country/Western. There will be a mechanical bull there for those interested in trying their riding skills and a Country Western band. It will be a lot of fun.
9. Staff Reports & Comments
A. Treasurer’s Report
Allen Walch stated that the Treasurer’s Report through close of business on October 31, 2007 was included in the Board Packet. The November Treasurer’s report was on the desk tonight.
B. Legal Report
Patrick T. Roach was excused. No legal report.
C. Budget/Boardings/Sales Tax/Fuel Management Reports
Allen Walch stated the Budget Report through October 31, 2007, was included in the Board Packet. The Boardings Report for November is on the desk tonight. MATT WATKINS suggested Staff take a look at moving Allen’s reports together on the agenda. Tim Fredrickson agreed. The January 10, 2008 agenda will reflect this change. Thanks!
D. General Manager’s Report
ITEMS IN PACKET (9D):
• Driver compliment – letter to Barbara Hays from Paul Singer
DAR customer assisted by Cassie Hackney, Coach Operator
• Web Contact commending Celesta Langlo, Cust Serv Rep
• Thanks to Dial-A-Ride Team from Ellen Thornton, Richland
• Thank you card from John McKinnon, developmentally disabled adult featured on The ARC of Tri-Cities “You know me” campaign ad that is currently on the side of our DAR buses
• Thank you letter from Patti at Community First Bank – group of kids went shopping and had story time on the bus Dec. 1st
• 2 Tri-City Herald articles: Foreign exchange students in Tri-Cities get lesson on accessibility; Fueling Transit in the Tri-Cities (Pratik Joshi, Staff Writer)
• Ben Franklin Transit Receives State Environmental Award – APTA Passenger Transport Nov. 19, 2007
• DRAFT – WSTA 2008 Legislative Agenda and 2008 Work Plan
• A Note to all NTD Reporters from Gary DeLorme
ITEMS ON DESK:
• November Treasurer’s and November Boardings Reports, December 10, 2007 CAC Meeting Minutes
VERBAL REPORT:
• Gave a Livable Communities presentation on Sunday, Dec. 9th to The League of Women Voters of Benton and Franklin Counties. Ginger Vetrano extended the invitation. Ginger is the wife of Jim Vetrano, who served as BFT’s Administration & Finance Manager before Allen Walch. It was good to visit with Jim and Ginger. Although the weather was not favorable that Sunday afternoon, there was a good turnout. It was a good meeting.
• Ed Frost and Christy Watts attended the Grand Opening Ceremony officially opening the Grape Line Service between Pasco and Walla Walla. The service runs three daily round-trips between Walla Walla and Pasco, making stops in Touchet, Wallula and Burbank along the way.
CALENDAR ITEMS:
• Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all.
10. Board Member Comments
MATT WATKINS – No further comment.
STEVE BECKEN – The elections are over – Prosser still make the news.
BOB OLSON – My compliments to Steve Becken on a heck of a meeting – and he said he wasn’t even there.
NEVA CORKRUM – Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
DALE JACKSON – Happy Holidays. He had the occasion earlier this week to be in Washington, D.C. and met with Senator Murray and some Staff members in Senator Cantwell’s office. There are some interesting things going on right now. It appears there was a major showdown on the Budget between the White House and Congress. Congress wanting to pass a spending Bill that would approve all of the appropriations bills through by the end of this year. They had about $20 billion dollars with the White House making it clear it would veto. There was a lot of scurrying around by Congress aimed at trying to override a veto. Somehow it appears that as of today a compromise has been reached. The reason he is telling all this – he was in Washington, D.C. to talk about the I-82 Interchange in West Richland, which he would like to see go forward and to talk about what appropriation funding may be needed for that project. He also talked about the impacts that certain types of development in West Richland may have on public transportation. He urged the Senator to also be mindful that we are going to continue to need support for transit. The appropriations traditionally called “earmarks” are now referred to as congressional priorities. VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON encouraged everyone to be watching closely at the developments in Washington, D.C., make phone calls to Congressional members. We should know by the end of next week whether or not the Federal Budget will pass.
11. Next Meeting – January 10, 2008 – 7:00 p.m. at Three Rivers Transit Center, 7109 W Okanogan Place, Kennewick, WA.
12. Executive Session – None.
13. Adjournment – VICE CHAIRMAN JACKSON promptly adjourned the Regular Meeting of the Ben Franklin Transit Board of Directors at 7:37 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by:
Susan Snowdy, Exec. Assistant/Clerk of the Board
January 10, 2008
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