Steven Risch

The board meeting addressed several key operational, financial, and administrative matters. Key discussion points included the annual election of officers, committee assignments, and the status of Avail software installation on the fleet. Operational updates were provided for fixed-route and paratransit services, including ridership trends, on-time performance, and safety metrics. The Board approved the first amendment to the medical examinations and drug/alcohol testing services contract with OSF Multi-Specialty Group to ensure continuity while a new procurement process is finalized. Additionally, the Board reviewed and approved the April 2026 financial report and board bills, discussed preparations for the FY2027 budget, and received reports on facilities and maintenance activities.

The board meeting included a finance committee update regarding budget reviews and audit status. The general manager reported on FY27 budget strategic goals, including maximizing value for stakeholders and expanding service frequency, as well as strategies to increase ridership to pre-COVID levels through partnership outreach. Operational updates included ridership growth metrics, on-time performance challenges due to construction, and the status of CAD/AVL system implementation. Discussions also covered a new farebox project, the status of bus air conditioning repairs, and safety committee reports including OSHA training, mirror mitigation, and de-escalation training. Additionally, the training department discussed health awareness initiatives and travel training for individuals with special abilities.

The board meeting included the election of officers and committee assignments. Updates were provided by the General Manager, including personnel changes in finance and WeDriveU leadership, operations reports on ridership and on-time performance, and a review of the safety committee activities. The board approved resolutions regarding an intergovernmental agreement with the City of Pekin, a special warranty for Section 5311 projects, authorization for a Section 5311 grant, signature authority for bank accounts, and the approval of March board bills. Furthermore, the board authorized the execution of a contract option for uniform and laundry services and approved the renewal of major medical insurance coverage.

The board meeting focused on several key operational and administrative updates. New finance personnel were introduced, and reports were provided by the general manager and operations department regarding ridership metrics, on-time performance, and challenges related to local construction and traffic detours. The safety committee provided an update on accident and incident data, the mitigation efforts for workers' compensation injuries, and the addition of retired police officers to the transit center security team. Additionally, the transit service general manager discussed strategies to improve service productivity, including the addition of new routes and goals for increasing on-time performance.

The committee meeting focused on updates from various members, including transit planning initiatives, bus stop accessibility, and operational performance improvements. Discussion topics centered on the planning of the ADA WOW event, including branding, vendor locations, raffle systems, giveaways, food preferences, and planned activities. Additionally, the committee addressed paratransit concerns, specifically regarding service reliability, communication with dispatch, and rider education, emphasizing the need for continued staff training and clear expectations.