Gina Douthat

The meeting included staff reports on monthly financial statements, operations statistics highlighting record on-time performance and reduced accidents, and an update on the revised accident and safety infractions policy. Action items approved by the board included the procurement of financial planning software from Open Gov, the declaration of obsolete equipment as surplus, and the purchase order for six low-floor hybrid Gillig buses to support a fleet right-sizing initiative. The General Manager provided updates regarding a board member resignation, pending county budget modifications, and the scheduling of a combined committee meeting.

The Board of Directors met to discuss several administrative and operational items. The meeting included an update on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget negotiations with funding counties, a review of a comprehensive fleet renewal and utilization plan which recommends a transition toward a mix of full-size and smaller cutaway buses, and an assessment of fuel price volatility and its potential impact on the budget. Additionally, the Board reviewed an updated Employee Handbook reflecting modernized HR policies, discussed a proposed research partnership with Northern Kentucky University to study rider demographics and economic impact, and reviewed the implementation of an Open Payment fare system.

The board discussed three budget scenarios for the upcoming fiscal year, incorporating factors such as contract wage increases, service hour adjustments, federal operating fund drawdowns, and updated county funding formulas. Specific attention was given to the South Bank Shuttle, including potential sponsorship opportunities, vehicle replacement, and service reduction planning. Additionally, the board reviewed a vehicle fleet strategy, discussed the expiration of COVID-era federal funds creating a long-term structural financial gap, and formally directed the General Manager to present specific budget options to the county fiscal courts, identifying one option as the preferred service model.

The board meeting included a review of the financial reporting status and a detailed presentation on transit operations, highlighting rider feedback and on-time performance improvements. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a comprehensive revision of the agency's accident and safety infraction policy, which introduces tiered discipline and safety expectations for operators. Other topics included updates on the Licking River Link shuttle, preparation for upcoming budget meetings, the organization of Transit Worker Appreciation Day, and preliminary findings from the Kenton County Age Well Report regarding senior transit services.

The board meetings focused on fiscal year 2027 budget negotiations, a comprehensive fleet renewal and utilization plan, and current fuel cost contracting. Additionally, updates were provided on the employee handbook revision, the status of pending litigation, and a proposed research partnership with Northern Kentucky University. Operational reports included an update on open payment mobile fare system features and ongoing financial performance monitoring.