Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority

The committee addressed a recent tragic incident aboard a Metro bus, emphasizing the organization's commitment to safety and cooperation with law enforcement. The finance report highlighted favorable revenue performance driven by sales tax, adjustments in fuel costs through hedging, and efforts to standardize parts procurement via fixed-price contracts. Additionally, the committee reviewed positive year-to-date operating results and high ridership metrics. The 2025 fiscal year audit was presented, resulting in an unmodified opinion with no material weaknesses or findings of non-compliance identified.

The board meeting focused on financial results as of March 31, 2026, and the approval of two procurement contracts. Specifically, resolutions were passed to award contracts for promotional items and apparel, as well as for bus replacement parts. Additionally, the board received briefings on organizational progress and priorities, which included updates on state legislature engagement, federal funding requests for safety enhancements, workforce facility renovations, new marketing strategies, and the launch of the first all-electric buses.

The committee reviewed the Good News report, including employee awards and transit initiatives. Performance metrics for ridership, service quality, and on-time reliability were presented for local, express, and demand-responsive services. Updates were provided for the MetroRapid transit project and the Government Square facility. The committee recommended board approval for contract awards related to promotional items and apparel, as well as various bus replacement parts, to support ongoing fleet maintenance and corporate operations.

The committee reviewed the financial results as of March 31st, 2026, which covered operating revenues, expenses, and ridership statistics. A presentation on Paycor IT General Controls and payroll processing was provided, identifying areas for improvement in user access reviews, third-party risk management, timekeeping, and password policies. Additionally, an update on internal audit activities was delivered, highlighting the status of past and current audit observations. The committee also considered and acted upon the Investment of Funds reports for February and March 2026.

The Board meeting included a hearing from citizens representing the Better Bus Initiative regarding bus stop infrastructure, followed by a presentation of January financial results. The Board approved resolutions concerning an updated fuel hedging policy, a contract increase for the rider rewards program, a new service vehicle and cell service contract, a sponsorship for Kings Island Family Day, and an independent cost estimating service for a BRT project. Additionally, the Board received updates on the agency's strategic plan and progress on various institutional priorities including legislative updates, workforce development, and AI strategy.