Mountain Area Regional Transit Authority

The board discussed several items, including the approval of a two-year demonstration trolley project to trails in the Big Bear Lake area, an amendment to increase the fiscal year 2026 operating budget, and the approval of a sole source bid justification for a retention basin at the Big Bear maintenance facility. Additionally, the board approved a free parking shuttle for the Pine Cone Festival. The General Manager provided updates on various capital projects, including the status of new maintenance and administration facilities and the progress of the Short Range Transit Plan.

The meeting, which included both a closed session and an open session, addressed several key items. The Closed Session involved a labor negotiation conference with the General Manager designated as the unrepresented employee. In the Open Session, the Board introduced a new Board Director. Discussions included reports on system performance for November and December 2025, along with the corresponding budget reports. Key new business items included the approval of the amended Personnel Policy Manual and the amended Procurement Policy. The Board also approved the Purchase and Sale Agreement for Mountain Transit Owned Property located at 41939 Fox Farm Road to the Bear Valley Unified School District for $1,466,000.00, and approved resolutions for the disposition of property located at 42132 Big Bear Boulevard. Furthermore, the Board unanimously approved the amended General Manager's Employment Contract with Sandra Benson, extending the term through December 31, 2027. During discussion items, the Board identified the Trolley to Trails seasonal service as the first choice for proposed new services, directing the General Manager to develop it for review.

The meeting included discussion and action on various topics. An employee was recognized for their contributions. The board discussed a potential paid parking shuttle for the Music in the Mountains summer concert series, and the renewal of a line of credit with First Foundation Bank. The board reviewed and filed the financial audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. The board also discussed and approved resolutions related to the LCTOP program.

The 2016-2021 Short Range Transit Plan for Mountain Transit serves as a roadmap for service provision and future investments, balancing projected costs and revenues over a five-year timeframe, and outlining a 15-year Operating, Capital, and Financial Plan. Key focus areas include gathering stakeholder input, conducting market research, reviewing performance standards, and developing recommendations for current and future transit services. The plan details strategies for existing service enhancements, constrained and unconstrained service expansion, operating plan adjustments, capital projects (vehicles, equipment, facilities), and a financial framework. It aims to ensure the provision of safe, reliable, accessible, cost-efficient, and user-friendly transportation alternatives, while promoting economic development, supporting human services, and reducing private vehicle usage within the San Bernardino Mountain communities.

The meeting included discussions and updates on various topics. The consent calendar was approved. The General Manager provided updates on capital projects, including the Big Bear New Facility and the Crestline New Maintenance and Administrative Facility. The Board also discussed the Omnitrans Subaward Funding Agreement, the Joint Powers Agreement Amended and Restated, and the Equipment Disposal of Vehicle #35. Additionally, the financial performance for August and September 2023 was reviewed, covering fare revenue, government assistance, and various expenses.