Kristine Hepburn

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and discussions on new business items. Key new business topics included a presentation on the Lowcountry Self-Sufficiency Movement and the significance of Palmetto Breeze, the presentation of the FY24-25 Annual Audit, and an update on the Northern Beaufort County Transit Master Plan. Informational items covered the Executive Director's report, highlighting progress in budget stabilization, regional planning, grant acquisition, and operational improvements, alongside the Finance Report which confirmed the completion of the FY25 audit and FY26 budget entry. Action items involved the selection of a Nominating Committee for the next LRTA Chair and Vice Chair for terms starting March 2026, and noting Board Member terms expiring in February 2026. Under old business, an update on the Lowcountry Area Transportation Study confirmed the Northern Beaufort County Transit Master Plan Study is on schedule for adoption in December, and an update was provided regarding ongoing site improvements at the Castle Rock Road parking lot.

The meeting included recognition of employees of the month, updates on partnerships, funding presentations, and regional planning efforts. The Administration & Finance report covered the FY25 audit, FY26 budget, staffing transitions, and the SCDOT compliance review. Mobility Management reported strong ADA service and increased Spanish-speaking ridership. Marketing efforts included bilingual campaigns and enhanced website accessibility. Operations maintained a low-incident record, and Safety & Training continued drug testing and safety meetings. The board also adopted the LRTA Advertising & Promotion Policy and the LRTA Public Transit Agency Safety Plan. A motion was made to continue operating under the FY25 budget until a special meeting could be held to address the FY26 budget.

The meeting included the Executive Director's report, which addressed the FY26 budget gap, grant submissions, the unveiling of a trolley wrap, Independence Day trolley service, and regional transit planning. Discussions covered community engagement, participation in the Northern Beaufort County Transit Master Plan study, grant applications, facilities improvements at the Castle Rock Road parking lot, and potential partnerships to expand public transit services. Updates were provided on the FY25 audit, FY26 grant approval, staffing changes, mobility management, and marketing initiatives. The Finance Report included updates on the FY25 year-end audit, FY26 grant, and budget matters. The LATS update covered the Transportation Improvement Plan announcement and upcoming open houses. The FY26 Budget Update addressed actions to manage the revenue gap.

The meeting included a presentation and review of revisions made to the draft FY26 budget. Discussions focused on addressing the revenue deficiency for FY26 and the potential effects of approving the budget on LRTA operations and administration, including possible service reductions in 2026 and their impacts on served communities. The board also heard an announcement regarding the Transit Association of South Carolina (TASC) Legislative Reception scheduled for January 2026.

The meeting included recognition of the drivers of the month. The Executive Director's report highlighted trolley ridership trends and a successful trolley promotion. The Finance Director presented a summary of financial reports. Updates were provided on the LATS meeting and the Argent Road project. The next board meeting was scheduled, and Rick Hamilton was recognized for his service on the Board of Directors. Committee assignments were set to be revisited. Announcements were made regarding the departure of the Director of Finance and Administration and the Director of Safety and Training.