Calhoun County Transportation Authority

The meeting commenced with approval of the agenda and the minutes from the September 10th and September 24th meetings. Key discussion points revolved around public comments and presentations regarding transportation initiatives. Finance and budget reports were reviewed, noting a bank account balance of $238,200.74, which included $5,538.70 in interest earnings for September, and a $50 promotional expense for the Festival of the Forks parade entry. There was an extensive discussion on marketing updates, public outreach efforts, including presentations to various community groups like Rotary, EGS and Issues, NPC1, and the Senior Mileage Allocation Committee. A significant portion of the discussion centered on collaboration with external transportation providers, such as the interest shown by the owner of Battle Buddies to coordinate services, and inquiries regarding the necessity for potential partners to adhere to TAC's established policies, procedures, and funding-related reporting requirements. The Local Advisory Committee (LAC) role in vetting new providers concerning accessibility, maintenance plans, and vehicle condition was also outlined. Furthermore, the reappointments of board members, specifically for the Marshall representative position, were addressed.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the January 28, 2025 meeting. Key discussions included the finance and budget report, noting the January interest earnings and receipt of an insurance certificate related to a mailbox license agreement. New business addressed the need for board action on joining local organizations, specifically the Marshall and Albion Chambers of Commerce, with follow-up required for the Battle Creek Chamber. Discussion also covered the status of RFPs for legal counsel, labor counsel, accounting services, and marketing/communication services, with associated timeline projections for proposal reviews and board approvals. A public comment segment involved questions regarding board bylaws accessibility, the initiation of public hearings (especially concerning federal funding by the October 1st deadline), and ongoing communication efforts regarding the TAG product rollout, noting a lapse in social media updates after the previous marketing contract ended. Further discussion involved updates from the Senior Millage Allocation Committee, including concerns about fare structure and service expansion. Legislative updates covered a potential large state investment in road infrastructure and mass transit funding proposals. Finally, updates from BCATS (Battle Creek Area Transportation Study) focused on the ongoing search for a Finance Director and monitoring the federal funding payment pause due to recent judicial rulings.

The meeting included a roll call, approval of the agenda, and approval of minutes from the November 26 meeting. A finance report was presented, including discussion of an invoice from Bluefish for design services and marketing campaigns. The board discussed the need to approve the payment to Bluefish pending final questions. Other topics included designating a new treasurer, updating bank information, and discussing tax payments with various cities. The board also discussed contracts and marketing, including extending the contract with Bluefish and establishing a procurement policy.

The meeting included discussion and approval of the agenda, with additions for election results and scheduling a work session. Public comments were heard, followed by a presentation on election activities. The finance and budget report covered net income, cash balances, and payments, along with updates on tax rate requests and insurance quotes. Unfinished business included insurance updates and a transportation update. The board also discussed website marketing and implementation strategies, as well as the upcoming TAC Workshop scheduled for November 26th.

The meeting included discussions and decisions on several key areas. The agenda was modified to include a closed session and additional policy items. The board approved the minutes from June 10, 2025. They moved into a closed session to discuss a written attorney opinion. The finance and budget report was accepted, highlighting payments from Battle Creek and Calhoun County. The board approved Mayor Casar as the accounting and finance services provider. The executive director job description was also approved. Updates were provided on marketing communications, including vehicle branding, and on the expanded BC Go service, including ridership in Albian and app provider progress.