Meeting Summary
The city council discussed and supported moving forward with a microtransit pilot program focusing on evening and weekend service within a defined zone. They also received an update on the comprehensive recodification of city ordinances, which will consolidate and modernize the city's legal code, with a first reading scheduled for January 24th. Additionally, a strategy was adopted to improve Paratransit services internally with Embark's new software.
Key Decisions & Votes
Microtransit Pilot Program Recommendation
45:30Council supported the recommendation to proceed with a microtransit pilot offering service Monday-Saturday evenings (6-hour span) and 8 hours on Sundays, within a limited geographic zone. This pilot will be put out for an RFP, allowing vendors to propose the specific zone.
On-Demand Paratransit Service Strategy
32:00The council adopted the strategy to partner with Embark to pursue on-demand Paratransit service internally once Embark's new software, funded by a recent grant, is implemented. This will not be part of the external microtransit pilot.
Financial Matters
Microtransit Pilot Program Budget
Funds allocated by Council in the budget for the microtransit pilot program.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- Recodification Ordinance First Reading: January 24th
- Recodification Ordinance Second Reading: February 14th
- Recodification Ordinance Effective Period: 30 days after second reading
Watch For
- RFP for Microtransit Pilot Program
- Implementation of Embark's new Paratransit software
- New fixed routes expected to start later next year
- First electric buses to be put into service
Announcements
- The city received its first electric buses a couple of weeks ago and looks forward to putting them into service.
- The Mayor will be stricter on political speech and campaigning from the dais.
Agenda Summary
Microtransit Pilot Program Update and Recommendations
Presentation and discussion on the analysis of microtransit alternatives, leading to a recommendation for a pilot program focusing on evening and weekend service within a limited zone, and a separate strategy for on-demand Paratransit.
Discussion Regarding the Recodification Process
Update on the comprehensive recodification of city ordinances by Municode, including changes to the code structure, inclusion of zoning, and consolidation of fees, with a timeline for adoption.