LCTB Comments, Responses

Page 1 of 32
RECEIVED
FROM
COMMENT OR QUESTION RESPONSE
Eugenia C.
(via verbal
comment
prior to
public input
session)
Comment: Need Sunday service. Maybe raise fares but know that may
be hard for some individuals.
Thank you for your comment. Service hour reductions
are being considered by the Board during hours of
lowest ridership so that the Licking County Transit Board
(LCTB) can meet its fiscal obligations and still maintain
core service hours for the maximum number of riders.
Raising fares would be an option; however, it would be
a hardship on the low income individuals using the
service. In addition, the fare would be quite high to
cover the cost of providing services during those hours.
For example: The average cost for service is
approximately $24.01 per trip.

Nancy N.
(via email
comment
prior to
public input
session)
Comment: I had a call from a lady who lives in Granville late yesterday
afternoon. She evidently attends church with a lady who relies on LCTB
to get to church every Sunday because she has MS. This lady will be
affected by the reduction in Sunday transportation. She referenced a
pending public comment period about the reduction and indicated she
planned to attend.
Thank you for the information. I will add the below to
the comments collected.
Janet G. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: I hope that the transit board will call on the expertise of
national Express to devise a means to generate income using the
vehicles that we have. I feel very full buses would generate the money
to subsidize the more expensive trips. We trust that our elected
officials and the appointed board members will exhibit careful
stewardship of the public money which we have to find creative
solutions to our transportation needs. Our most severely handicapped
citizens deserve to have access to the solace of worship services.
Thank you for your comment. The Board has proposed
the service hour reductions to meet its fiscal obligations
and still maintain core service hours for the maximum
number of riders. This was not an easy decision for the
Board as it knows there may be some riders affected,
however, to be good stewards of the public money the
Board must do what it deems necessary to keep the
transit system financially sound.
Rev Dwight
D. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: As a pastor of a local church, I feel strongly, as do many of
my colleagues, that we should be attentive to both the physical and
spiritual/emotional needs of the people. SPARK, a program for people
with disabilities in Licking County, meets & operates out of our church,
so Ive been able to learn much about what sustains people with
disabilities. Many folks spend little quality time with adults with typical
Thank you for your comment. This was not an easy
decision for the Board as it knows there may be some
riders affected, however, to be good stewards of the
public money the Board must do what it deems
necessary to keep the transit system financially sound.
There are many nuances to a fixed route system,
Page 2 of 32

ability levels-and for many, church attendance is one of the precious
few opportunities people have to be in genuine community-amongst
others who treat them with dignity and respect. In short, church
attendance is an important way many of these folks pull themselves
up. I realize that there are financial constraints that would temp the
board to fully cancel Sunday transit options for people with disabilities.
But what I see happening is that, once again, the heads of the least
among us are the ones being put on the chopping block of efficiency.
Surely there are other ways to rethink this revenue-cost system that
would preserve even a reduced-service/higher cost option so that
people who so desperately need the encouragement are communities
of faith provide can make their way to church on Sundays. Perhaps we
need to take seriously the option of fundamentally rethinking the
system-since a fixed route system could provide efficiencies and
revenue. Thank you all!
including additional costs. The Board and Licking County
Transit (LCT) staff has been working with a consultant
over the past year to research potential alternative
services that will best fit the needs of the community
within the financial capacity of the transit system. The
consultants hope to have the Transit Development Plan
(TDP) completed by early 2015.
Rev Dwight
D. (via email
to Chairman
Tim Bubb)
Comment: Thanks again for your service to our community. You may
remember that I wrote you a note last week expressing concern about
the Sunday transit cuts proposed by the Transit board, since I
personally know a few people (one of whom is in my congregation)
who rely on this service to get them to church on Sundays. Yesterday,
I read the Advocate article in which you were quoted as having said,
There are other services, they have other ways to get people to
church." Now I, myself have had the experience of my original words
having been changed by the time I see them in print in the Advocate,
so it may be that that's not exactly what you said. In any case, after
that article went on-line, a number of my parishioners have been
asking me: Question 1. What are those "other options" for people in
wheelchairs? Question 2. Could you clarify what those options would
be? Thanks so much, Dwight.
Dear Pastor D...Thanks for taking the time to
correspond and share your concerns. Frankly, our
Transit Board shares those concerns. We have struggled
over the past year to make the numbers work - however
the marginal service hours, including those on Sunday,
could very well mean a six-figure deficit this year.
Simply stated the Transit function has to at least break
even and pay its bills. Our Board is reluctantly
considering this cutback in an effort to preserve the
core rural mass transit service on weekdays and a
reduced schedule on Saturday. We certainly are trying
to avoid having to cut core service hours which would
adversely affect many folks, and critical weekday trips
such as medical and getting people without a ride to
work. Over the last year we have made cuts and are
trying to operate as lean as possible in this expensive
environment. Items such as labor, maintenance, vehicle
cost and expensive fuel make rural mass transit in this
large County a challenge. And operating at a huge loss
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on some marginal service hours may no longer make
sense. Again, the goal here is trying to preserve our core
weekday and Saturday transit program. The only other
option to generate additional operating funds, to
essentially further subsidize this program, would be a
Countywide transit levy; and I don't think a new
property tax proposal would be well received. Maybe
you will think differently. Answer: Finally, I do realize
that other public transit options may not currently exist,
though it is possible the local cab company might again
add a para transit vehicle to their fleet. Answer: The
only other option might be a combined church based
transit option, and maybe that is something we could
discuss at some point. Again, thanks for the note.
Regards...Licking County Commissioner Tim Bubb.
Dr. Cheryl
M. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: First, I am sad that the information presented at the public
session today was not completer Only the facts pertaining to a
decision/proposal were offered. This tack of clear persuasive detail
makes a painful decision difficult to support. While its clear that the
proposed remedy represents considerable savings, it does not
demonstrate or illustrate why the proposed remedy is a sound
decision. Question 1. What other alternatives have been considered?
Question 2. Why were they deemed less viable than the one
presented today? Comment: As to other considerations, I want to
emphasize how necessary this transport is for county citizens with
disabilities. No other alternative is available to get them to church
services. Thus, eliminating Sunday entirely removes social support for
our community members with disabilities. Curtailing other
services/other days in order to make Sundays possible during,
perhaps, abbreviated hours (until 1pm?) would be preferable.
Obviously, savings and coordination are important goals. But the
human toll should not be discounted simply because of the bottom
line. Thank you for considering these remarks.
Thank you for your comment. The Licking County Transit
Board (LCTB) was required to present to the public the
rationale and outline of the proposed changes as part of
the public participation process as identified in the
LCTBs Major Service Reduction Policy. Answer 1 & 2: In
short, yes other alternatives were discussed and
considered by the Board. They are as follows: Fare
Increase: A fare increase would not be substantial
enough to cover the costs of services during marginal
service hours. In addition this would cause a hardship
on the low income individuals using the service. Cutting
of other service times: We certainly are trying to avoid
having to cut core service hours which would adversely
affect many riders taking the critical weekday trips for
medical and those individuals who are without a ride to
work. Tax Levy: May be an option to generate additional
operating funds to essentially further subsidize the
transit system, it would be a Countywide transit levy;
and it was determined that a new property tax proposal
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would not be well received. Joint Lease: Poses potential
legal and insurance concerns. The Mid-Ohio Regional
Planning Commission (MORPC): MORPC was contacted
in an effort to assist with potential car or van pooling
options. This may or may not meet the needs of all
riders. Potential Alternative Services: Time is the
concern with this alternative because of the current
fiscal obligations of the LCTB. However, the Board and
Licking County Transit (LCT) staff will continue to work
with a consultant to research potential alternative
services that will best fit the needs of the community
within the financial capacity of the transit system. The
estimated time of completion is early 2015.
The Board has proposed the service hour reductions to
meet its fiscal obligations and still maintain core service
hours. This was not an easy decision for the Board as it
knows there may be some riders affected, however, to
be good stewards of the public money the Board must
do what it deems necessary to keep the transit system
financially sound.
Gerald N.
(via written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: LCATS will continue to offer assistance to the LCTB. We also
want to be certain that the proposed service hours reduction is
chosen as a last resort to reduce costs. It still appears combining trips
and rides have not been fully resolved which will lessen expenses. As it
relates to the careful balance of services to cost, it appears
closing/eliminating Sunday service for those unable to drive should be
more carefully examined.
Board (LCTB) appreciates your offer of continued
technical assistance. The proposed service reduction
was not an easy decision for the Board as it knows there
may be some riders affected. The need to reduce
current service hours was however carefully examined.
The ridership during the current service hours prior to
LCTB assuming all the transit services for Licking County
was a concern. Over the past year the ridership has
been monitored as well as the expense to operate the
extensive service hours. The Board has determined that
operating at a huge loss on some marginal service hours
may no longer make sense. In response to your concern
regarding combining rides, the LCTB is a shared ride
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demand responsive system and as such there are many
factors that must be taken into consideration when
scheduling the rides such as trip length, trip time,
individual passenger needs, appointment times, wait
times, load and unload times, location, seating capacity
of the vehicle, drivers breaks/lunches, contract
requirements, weather, construction, ADA and other
federal, state and local requirements, etc. The LCTB
does do its best to combine trips while taking the above
items into consideration. It is a very delicate balance
between maximizing efficiency and maintaining a high
level of customer service.
Irene K. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: I suggest the following: 1. Ask Commissioners to fund the
gap until the TDP can be produced- they only put $65K into county
transit- not enough. 2. Dont encourage riders to reserve rides and
then cancel, something Ive heard many times from schedulers as a
helpful suggestion. 3. Get someone to critique the computer program
you use- it may be the source of your inefficient use of vehicles. 4.
Reach out to institutions (churches, businesses in the industrial parks,
etc.) to collaborate with you in finding ways to transport residents-
contrary to what you think, people dont know about the services and
dont know how to negotiate the reservation system. Ive gone to bat
for a rider, and was able to get that person a ride AFTER he was
refused by the scheduler. Train schedulers and give them freedom to
tinker with the computer program. Request 1. Please provide the
public with names and contact information of Transit Board members
at next public hearing.
Thank you for your comment. It is important to note
that the Licking County Commissioners not only
provides $65,000 to the Licking County Transit Boards
(LCTB) local fund, the Licking County Commissioners
lease the Transit Center to the LCTB for $1.00, provides
all the maintenance and upkeep and also provides many
in-kind contributions as being a part of the County
government. The LCTB at no time encourages riders to
cancel their services. The LCTBs scheduling and routing
system is one of the leading ITS providers with over 600
systems deployed globally. The LCTB does reach out to
other organizations, businesses and agencies in Licking
County and it is always willing to encourage use of the
public transit system. The schedulers do look at the
schedule and have the capability to research the times
being requested by the caller. The Board members
contact information is located on the Agenda.
Sally T. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: I think the L.C. Transit System will sink if it continues to
operate as it does now. It looks like you are running a chauffer system-
one (sometimes 2) people for each bus ride. In the computer age,
there has to be a plan made to coordinate the rides saving gasoline
cost, wear & tear on the vehicles, etc- all this using the potential of
Thank you for your comment. There are many nuances
to a fixed route system, including additional costs. The
Board and Licking County Transit (LCT) staff has been
working with a consultant over the past year to research
potential alternative services that will best fit the needs
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computer softwear to map it all out. A fixed bus route would take a
huge weight off the point to-point system in place now- they both
would run concurrently. Question 1. Also what is the point of public
meetings after the decision has already been made by the L.C. Transit
Board to change the schedule of hours? Comment: The fixed bus route
would not be as costly- people wouldnt have to call 24 hrs (or 48 hrs)
ahead to schedule a ride- affordability & dependability would be most
prized qualities of this system.
of the community within the financial capacity of the
transit system. The LCTB does use a scheduling and
routing system that is one of the leading ITS providers
with over 600 systems deployed globally. This
scheduling and routing system must take into
consideration when scheduling the rides items such as
trip length, trip time, individual passenger needs,
appointment times, wait times, load and unload times,
location, seating capacity of the vehicle, drivers
breaks/lunches, contract requirements, weather,
construction, ADA and other federal, state and local
requirements, etc. It is a very delicate balance between
maximizing efficiency and maintaining a high level of
customer service. Answer 1: The decision was not made
by the Board prior to the public input meetings.
However, the Board is not required to change its plans
based on the public participation process. The Board
does intend to give due consideration to all comments,
both written and verbal, made by the public.
Joan N. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: People with disabilities need access to communities in
order to thrive, just like those of us who are able to driver ourselves.
For this reason, Sunday worship services on TV or Radio cannot
replace a religious community for support or well-being. Although
churches can and do provide rides for many, most churches do not
have vans that can transport those who are confined to wheel chairs
or power chairs. You discriminate against those confined to wheel
chairs when you cut back the hours since this prevents these
individuals from attending worship services and participating in a
community that may help make their lives worthwhile. Perhaps you
could operate more efficiently. Maybe it could be Sunday from 9 2.
The information that you provided only deals with reduction in service.
I would like to hear how much money you could save by coordinating
rides more efficiently. I have heard stories of several vans picking up a
few folks from the same address in Columbus. If you could improve
Thank you for your comment. The Board is reluctantly
core rural mass transit service on weekdays and a
reduced schedule on Saturday. We certainly are trying
to avoid having to cut core service hours which would
adversely affect many folks, and critical weekday trips
such as medical and getting people without a ride to
work. The LCTB is a shared ride demand responsive
system and as such there are many factors that must be
taken into consideration when scheduling the rides such
as trip length, trip time, individual passenger needs,
Page 7 of 32

your efficiency, people with disabilities would not be prevented from
practicing their religious beliefs. Perhaps you could reduce the number
of vans that are used on Sunday by coordinating rides more
effectively. Finally, I wonder whether your hour reduction on
weekdays will prevent people from working on late shifts.
requirements, etc. The LCTB does do its best to combine
trips and reduce the amount of vehicles on the road
while taking the above items into consideration. It is a
very delicate balance between maximizing efficiency
and maintaining a high level of customer service.
Paul M. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: 1) Lets have Fixed-Route Fridays. This would pick up
additional riders. 2) Post schedules in public places >groceries and
libraries govt. bldgs. (Inform the public). 3) Use fewer vehicles on
Sundays. 4) Other funding- Industries, foundations, United Way? 5)
Work with neighbor county transit systems. Muskingum, Fairfield,
Knox, Franklin. This could be cost savings.
Thank you for your comment. 1) There are many
nuances to a fixed route system, including additional
costs and additional federal regulations. 2) The Licking
County Transit Board (LCTB) advertises on KOOL 101.7,
has a website, works with many local and state
organizations, advertises at many local events, etc. but
certainly is open to your suggestion to post information
about the system at your suggested areas. 3) The LCTB
works very hard to reduce the amount of vehicles on all
work days. In addition to limiting the vehicles for
service, during the course of each day the Dispatchers
will move trips off vehicles that have received
cancellations in an effort to further reduce the amount
of vehicles in service. 4) Aside from the federal, state
and local funding sources and contracts, the LCTB does
apply for funding from the Senior Citizens Levy and the
United Way. 5) The LCTB does collaborate with our
regional partners. The LCTB has on occasion taken
passengers to points of transfer with transit systems in
Muskingum, Knox, Delaware and Franklin.
Rev Karen C.
(via email to
Chairman
Tim Bubb)
Comment: Dear Commissioners, I am a pastor in Granville who joins
with my colleagues in asking you to reconsider your decision about
Sunday public transit for Licking County. As you may know from your
own experience, Church communities are an important safety net,
source of caring relationships, and spiritual home for many, many
people. Unfortunately, not all have independent means of
transportation. Many churches are unable to safely provide rides for
parishioners, particularly those who are wheelchair-dependent. A
handicap-accessible van is something few have the privilege of
Dear Ms. C...Thanks for taking the time to correspond
and share your concerns. Frankly, our Transit Board
shares those concerns. We have struggled over the past
year to make the numbers work - however the marginal
service hours, including those on Sunday, could very
well mean a six-figure deficit this year. Simply stated the
Transit function has to at least break even and pay its
bills. Our Board is reluctantly considering this cutback in
an effort to preserve the core rural mass transit service
Page 8 of 32

purchasing. I understand that you have the responsibility to be
prudent trustees. I dearly hope, though, that you will reconsider this
decision. Please help us help others by providing access to church for
all. blessings on your work, Rev. Karen C.

on weekdays and a reduced schedule on Saturday. We
certainly are trying to avoid having to cut core service
hours which would adversely affect many folks, and
critical weekday trips such as medical and getting
people without a ride to work. Over the last year we
have made cuts and are trying to operate as lean as
possible in this expensive environment. Items such as
labor, maintenance, vehicle cost and expensive fuel
make rural mass transit in this large County a challenge.
And operating at a huge loss on some marginal service
hours may no longer make sense. Again, the goal here is
trying to preserve our core weekday and Saturday
transit program. The only other option to generate
additional operating funds, to essentially further
subsidize this program, would be a Countywide transit
levy; and I don't think a new property tax proposal
would be well received. Maybe you will think
differently. Again, thanks for the note. Regards...Licking
County Commissioner Tim Bubb.
Julianna C.
M. (via
verbal
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: My first comment is I was very distressed it was not clear
which building this meeting was being held. And in fact when the
meeting began there was very few people here and people had been
coming in and including one of the participants one of the resource
people who was the last most recent to arrive so I am concerned
about that. The second is that I am concerned I think the presentation
was very compelling that there was an economic reason to make
service reductions there is no question about that in my mind and I
can see that it was not in some other peoples minds. But we want to
know what other alternatives have been considered. And I want to
make a suggestion the way that I am thinking about it when I see the
buses going around it is very clear that there is only one person there
almost all the time. I see a large vehicle that is very expensive to
maintain there is a driver that I know even without the no-show piece
of information which I didnt have until now I knew it was a very in-
Thank you for your comment and for bringing the
signage issue to our attention. The Licking County
Transit Board (LCTB) apologizes for the confusion with
the signage; LCTB staff did make the necessary changes
to correct this issue. The LCTB uses a scheduling and
routing system that is one of the leading ITS providers
with over 600 systems deployed globally. This
scheduling and routing system must take into
consideration when scheduling the rides items such as
trip length, trip time, individual passenger needs,
requirements, etc. The LCTB has limited vans in its fleet
Page 9 of 32

efficient system and it seems to me that the Transit Board is locked
into a situation with in appropriate resources for the task at hand and
its neither a fixed route system which would require a large bus with a
lift for ADA reasons right, or a more nimble system which would be a
small van with a lift that would be less expensive to run except of
course for the driver so that is my major point is that I feel I would like
to have that addressed and communicated. That why if it is a $180,000
that is shortfall that you want to save then why not spend that on a
van which could transport people on Sundays one at a time if
necessary. I have other questions but I also feel I understand why you
want to go to this mode and public hearings can be very frustrating
but also its I think we learn from each other buts its when you have
people that is responsible and listening for information and asking
questions so I am disappointed in the current format but I appreciate
the encouraging faces that I am seeing as I try to give my statement.
Thank you.
because it must follow the Buy America federal
regulation which has limited the opportunity to
purchase accessible vans for the fleet. It is also
important to note, there is no scheduling and routing
system that is foolproof, but the LCT staff does its best
to combine trips while taking the above items into
consideration. The Board and Licking County Transit
(LCT) staff has been working with a consultant over the
past year to research potential alternative services that
will best fit the needs of the community within the
financial capacity of the transit system. The consultants
hope to have the Transit Development Plan (TDP)
completed by early 2015. The format of the public
participation process followed the LCTBs Major Service
Reduction Policy.
Anonymous
(via verbal
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: I feel very defeated at this point right now anyway.
Question 1: What I dont understand is I know that by scheduling on
Friday, you have to schedule on Friday for the weekend ride, and they
have a printed manifest that they can look at why unless you are
transporting wheelchairs if it is people like myself with some other
type of disability why arent they utilizing these vans? I think once or
twice in all the time I have been riding have they sent a van for me on
Sunday. Question 2: That, isnt that a fuel saving half of what a bus
costs? Arent they looking at people and saying this one is a wheelchair
and these arent and trying to get people gathered together?
Comment: I was just at the County Commissioners meeting down
there and I am afraid that I got very emotional because what it feels
like to me because I am a part of that group is that the poor, working
poor, handicapped, and the elderly are the people being terribly
victimized here. Being very victimized. I understand money is always
you know at the top of anything but it would seem to me that there
can be better ways to utilize you know. I think one of the things you
need to do is re-structure that computer system that directs the
Thank you for your comment. Answer 1: The LCTB has
limited vans in its fleet because it must follow the Buy
America federal regulation which has limited the
opportunity to purchase accessible vans for the fleet.
Answer 2: The buses get approximately 10 miles per
gallon (mpg) and the vans get 18 miles per gallon (mpg).
That is approximately a $0.19 per mile savings with the
use of the vans. However, again it is important to note
the Answer (1) above and the mobility needs of the
individual must also be considered. This was not an easy
Page 10 of 32

drivers to where they are going. If what I understand the computer
doesnt really have a good sense of location or area. There is nothing
else I can say because as based on what I have heard on the radio and
what have you it sounds as if it is a done deal. So the only thing I know
is the federal government says you know you have to listen to the
comments of the people so you know I still think there is a better way.
I dont have all the answers you know but I thank you for listening.
Linda L. (via
verbal
comment at
public input
session)
Comment 1: I am probably gonna say some of the things that the last
person was commenting is that I dont know if you ever talk with the
drivers sometimes it seems like there is more human oversight needed
cause I have had drivers tell me that they have been sitting one there
is one gentleman that was telling me that he was sitting somewhere in
Columbus and while he was there he saw two other vans pull up and
they were all picking people up and they were all heading to Newark
so obviously they were all scheduled to get picked up close together so
the computer must have picked up they werent heading to the same
direction but sure if one was North Newark and one was South
Newark or something but it probably still would have been more
economical to have just one van pick them all up. Sometimes people
have specific pick up times but they are 15 minutes apart and the
computer will say well it cant be done but a human would notice and
say we can ask this person if they will wait a little to save that much so
I just I dont know if that can be done but a little human oversight on
the computer maybe. I was being brought home, I was trying to think
what day it was maybe last Friday I think anyway they stopped by a
place where the developmentally disabled was getting out of the
workshop and there were 9 vans there and I bet most of those people
arent couldnt they have picked up there was like 1 getting on this one
and 1 getting on this one I dont know it just seemed like with a little
oversight maybe you could put more on 1 you know. It just seems so
un-economical when we are trying to save dollars so I really had to
wonder while I was sitting there 1, 2, 3, 4 good grief Im counting all
these vans its like surely there is some of them that live a little close
together that you could send the same van for so that is all I can think
Thank you for your comment. The proposed service
reduction was not an easy decision for the Board as it
knows there may be some riders affected. The LCTB
does use a scheduling and routing system that is one of
the leading ITS providers with over 600 systems
deployed globally. This scheduling and routing system
must take into consideration when scheduling the rides
items such as trip length, trip time, individual passenger
needs, appointment times, wait times, load and unload
times, location, seating capacity of the vehicle, drivers
requirements, etc. The LCTB does do its best to combine
trips while taking the above items into consideration.
The LCTB works very hard to reduce the amount of
vehicles on all work days. Essentially, there is several
human oversight tasks involved in producing each days
schedule. First the reservationists check the schedule to
assure the trip will fit, then the scheduler takes all the
trips entered and assigns the trips to the buses, after
the manifests are printed the National Express
Operations Manager will review each manifest prior to
calling the driver with his or her start time and lastly the
drivers often review their schedule prior to starting
their day. In addition, during the course of each day the
Dispatchers will monitor and move trips off vehicles
that have received cancellations in an effort to further
Page 11 of 32

of at the moment. I have a few other written things that I can mail
back in in case I think of something later. Thank you.
Comment 2: I just had a thought, as far as that human oversight thing,
that I was trying to get to an eye doctor last December and I ended up
having to make 3 different appointments cause I would call and make
an appointment and I would call for the ride only to be told it wasnt
available that day so I would have to call and make another
appointment and ended up taking I forget it was almost 2 weeks I
think before and if there was a human I am pretty sure if they would
have looked they would have seen hey there is a van out there that
isnt full that could take this lady out here because she is going blind in
her right eye thank goodness it was like 2200 or something vision was
almost gone scarred the crap out of me and it took me all this time to
try to get a ride and I just kept thinking if there was just somebody
that could look at that so I dont know what kind of human oversight
you could get but. I ran into someone at the hospital that said they
had the same problem that they had to get in for testing took them
like 3 times. So the third time I actually ended up dialing 2 and begging
them to get a hold of the I said if I have to wait for the call back that
day I need the ride is going to fill up before I get a call back because
sometimes it is more than 1 hour before they can call you back. So I
dont know how to make that more efficient but it is definitely a
problem so I didnt know it turned out it was a part of my but I
didnt know that and they can sometimes give you to limit the
permanent damage and I was thinking I am waiting all this time that I
should be being treated and I had no way to get there. Yeah I dont
know as far as how they can make anything more cause I always say
now I figure I have to call at least a week ahead to make sure I get a
ride somewhere so I am not allowed to get sick unless I get really sick
so but there are so many things I think that you would get more
ridership if they could actually get a ride without having to schedule so
far ahead I mean you dont always know. When my niece was born it
wasnt induced so I couldnt schedule a ride for when she was going to
go into labor. Stuff like that you miss and I think a lot more people
reduce the amount of vehicles in service. It is a very
delicate balance between maximizing efficiency and
maintaining a high level of customer service. There are
many nuances to a fixed route system, including
additional costs. The Board and Licking County Transit
completed by early 2015.
Page 12 of 32

would go if they could actually if there was a way of I dont know if
that is possible but it would be great if it was. I know when I used to be
able to take Yellow Cab I may have to wait on them 2 or 3 hours but I
was gonna go at least.
Comment 3: I was just thinking if people were given an option would
you be willing would you rather pay more or rather there not be
service on this day I am pretty sure that a lot of people would pay
more. I couldnt pay a lot more but if we were talking $5 or something
then I mean the church actually helps me with it now so maybe they
would be willing to do some and I would do some. Giving up church
entirely its an awful feeling. And I feel bad for me and I feel bad for
others I cant remember her name but there is a lady they would pick
up sometimes that would be going to the church just down the road
from me she s, shes totally shes not able to verbalize or anything
anymore but shes very with it you can tell in her eyes but shes lost all
mobile thats probably the only time she gets out of that facility and to
think that thats gone you know its just so it makes you want to cry,
sorry. At least I am still able to roll around outside or something but
she is not. Keep the thought wheels cranking if you can think of
anything.
Comment 4: I was just wanting to add that if there was ever a fixed
route system I could certainly use it. Not only would I like to be able to
shop out in Heath and the area it was going out but when I had the
eye doctor appointment I couldnt get to and that is right on 21
st
I
could have just went to wherever the bus stop was and hopped on the
bus and went out there. And now that I am actually on recording I am
forgetting half of what I was saying, OK cause I volunteered to visit at
the Heath Nursing Care Center and for the Ombudsman program and
they are advocates for resident rights and if a resident was having a
problem with staff and needed somebody to go and get information,
maybe talk to somebody, I couldnt volunteer to do that because I am
not able to get there whenever there is a problem so I would certainly
use that service and I am sure lots of people would once they got used
to it being available that might be a lot more economical than calling
Page 13 of 32

and cancelling. You might get several riders that wants that way so I
dont know if that is stuff that you have already checked into. Thank
you.
Irene K. (via
verbal
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: My question is for the County Commissioners $65,000 is
not that much money to put into something that benefits every single
person in Licking County and I suggest the County Commissioners to
look very seriously at funding the gap until such time as the Transit
Development Plan is proposed at least because when this whole
combination took place I think everybody thought that within 2 years
we would have a Transit Development Plan and since we dont I think
their only solution would be to fund the remaining 6 months of it until
2015 when the plan is supposed to be produced and proposed. Thank
you, Irene K.
Thank you for your comment. Again, it is important to
note that the Licking County Commissioners not only
provides $65,000 to the Licking County Transit Boards
(LCTB) local fund, the Licking County Commissioners
lease the Transit Center to the LCTB for $1.00, provides
all the maintenance and upkeep and also provides many
in-kind contributions as being a part of the County
government.
Janet G. (via
verbal
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: By taking off the Sunday ridership where people who are in
wheelchairs cant be transported in a regular vehicle there is no way
that the private individual can replace this transportation service that
the County provides with our public money that we pay taxes for so it
is very important that we try to figure out a solution. If you know you
have a 100 people that are regularly using this service is there no way
that you can continue to serve them because they will not be able to
go anywhere on Sunday, they wont be able to go to church thats one
thing. The other thing is I am hoping that we can figure out how to be
more pro-active as a community to help you generate more income
because we think there are people who would ride these vehicles if
they were going up and down Main Street or going up and down 21
st

Street or going to other places that we have all identified your studies
have identified as destinations that people need to get to. So that is a
way that we could think of a way that we could come up with this
$319,000 because we believe that you know the system has assets
that could be capitalized on and those buses are big part of that as
well as your own enthusiasm and dedication to making this thing work.
So and I will also do a written comment. Thank you.
Thank you for your comment. This was not an easy
As identified by the studies, there are many nuances to
a fixed route system, including additional costs.
Increased ridership would have to be substantial
enough to cover the costs of services during marginal
service hours. The Board and Licking County Transit
completed by early 2015.
Joan N. (via
verbal
Comment: Ive had now 2 friends, 1 was a former colleague at
Dennison who could only get to church with a van and he was a
Thank you for your comment. The Board shares your
concerns and has struggled over the past year to make
Page 14 of 32

comment at
public input
session)
Minister that was important to him. Now to say, people that say oh let
him listen to it on TV that is not the same. I mean a church is worship
but it is a community its support and I am not but seems as if we are
now becoming anti-Christian in Licking County not to allow people to
go to church because we can provide drives were a small church but
we can take people with dementia we can pick up people who cant
walk very well but we cannot pick up somebody like Linda we could
not pick up somebody like my former colleague Jim M the only way
cause they are confined to wheelchairs and particular when they are
large like hers and Jim was a big man the only way they can get there
is by a van. And so it seems to me that is a service unless that you are
just saying that people with disabilities can stay at home and watch
soap operas all day they need a quality of life too. Quality of life means
community not just in particularly those who cannot work you know
surely cannot work but they need community and my concern is just
what is happening there. There will be no option then for my friend
who is now deceased, Jim M. and these are 2 people in the same small
church in Granville. Jim had no financial resources, she doesnt, but
again we can provide for many people but we cant provide rides for
people in wheelchairs and people tried to provide them for Jim and
Lindas wheelchair is much too large. So it strikes me that the Transit
Authority is making is becoming is discriminating against people who
are religious that is how it appears because those are the people you
are preventing from attending their worship services. And that is what
I wanted to say. The other thing I would want to say is we have to also
be careful about people who are working that they can get home after
their 2
nd
shift cause that is important too.
the numbers work - however the marginal service
hours, including those on Sunday, could very well mean
a large deficit this year. Our Board is reluctantly
core rural mass transit service on weekdays and
Saturdays. The Board certainly is trying to avoid having
to cut core service hours which would adversely affect
many individuals, and critical weekday trips such as
medical and getting people without a ride to work. Over
the last year we have made cuts and are trying to
operate as lean as possible in this expensive
large County a challenge. Unfortunately, operating at a
huge loss on some marginal service hours may no
longer make sense. Again, the goal is trying to preserve
the core weekday and Saturday transit program.
Rachel P.
(via verbal
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: I will be 85 years old this fall, I did not realize until 7
months ago that we had this service that goes throughout the County.
I live about 11 miles out of Newark and it is a far trip to go and the cost
for each ride is almost unbelievable. I will be making a donation I may
even consider a legacy gift when I am putting my affairs in order
because I think this service is so important. And more important about
talking about the service, the people there, the drivers have all been
Thank you for your comment. The Board couldnt agree
more and will continue to work hard to keep the transit
services available to our community. Again, thank you
for your kind words.

Page 15 of 32

and I have had many I have not had a Transit driver that was not
courteous, that was not polite, who did not have an umbrella in the
rain and I have observed the courteous which they treat all the
passengers and I certainly was surprised. I did not expect the good
service that you have. Most of the time you are on-time a few times
there have been traffic problems and you just have to understand that
is life. I want to commend everyone in the organization for all their
hard work and this is one very happy customer. We need to work hard
to keep this available for other people who have no access to driving.
Im legally blind, I have hearing problems, Ive had a back operation,
my knees replaced and I want to still get out and help other people
and you cant do it without wheels and these are my wheels today. So
I thank you much for letting me speak my mind.

Jeff R. (via
verbal
comment at
public input
meeting)
Comment: I would like to see you keep the same service if possible
cause I would like to be out a little later than 8 oclock sometimes like
when they go down on the Square for the Mayors concert and things
like that so if they stay with 8 oclock I wouldnt be able to go to that.
Question 1: Whats that company they say that they call money trip
something they always have on that recording if you need like a ride
home? Comment: I would like to see you get money from somewhere
else.
Thank you for your comment. The Board has proposed
the service hour reductions to meet its fiscal obligations
and still maintain core service hours for the maximum
number of riders. Answer 1: The Mid-Ohio Regional
Planning Commission (MORPC) offers the guaranteed
ride home program to transit riders that have pre-
registered. You can call #1-888.742-RIDE for more
information. MORPC also offers potential car or van
pooling options. The Licking County Transit Board (LCTB)
receives funding from the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA), Ohio Department of
Transportation (ODOT), the Licking County
Commissioners, contract services, farebox, Senior
Citizens Levy and United Way.
Ann F. (via
email to
Chairman
Tim Bubb)
Comment: Tim I do not use the transit system thank God, I still
drive. But I do have friends who do use the system for Sunday services.
Question 1: In your article you say there are other options for the
riders to get transportation to Sunday services what are these
options? If they cost more than the transit system, many cannot
afford it. I would rather see our tax money go to help those in need
than for other programs. Thank you for your and the other
Dear Ann...Thanks for taking the time to correspond and
share your concerns. Frankly, our Transit Board shares
those concerns. We have struggled over the past year
to make the numbers work - however the marginal
Page 16 of 32

commissioners attention to this matter. I ask that you give those less
fortunate a lot of thought before making your decision. Ann F.
bills. Our Board is reluctantly considering this cutback in
And operating at a huge loss on some margin service
hours may no longer make sense. Again, the goal here
is trying to preserve our core weekday and Saturday
County Commissioner Tim Bubb. Answer: The Board
realizes that other public transit options may not
currently exist, though it is possible the local cab
company might again add a para transit vehicle to their
fleet. Answer: The only other option might be a
combined church based transit option, and maybe that
is something the Board could discuss at some point.
Jack S. (via
email to
Chairman
Tim Bubb)
Comments: Mr. Bubb, I hope you will reconsider the decision to
eliminate Sunday transit service. This will prevent many people,
including two people in my own congregation, from attending service.
Based on your comments in the Advocate it would seem that you
believe this only affects those who use public transit. On the contrary,
it affects us all. If the goal is create and foster a community, then we
should want all people--no matter their income or ability--to
Dear Mr. S...Thanks for taking the time to correspond
and share your concerns. Frankly, our Transit Board
shares those concerns. We have struggled over the past
year to make the numbers work - however the marginal
Page 17 of 32

participate. Sincerely, Jack S. bills. Our Board is reluctantly considering this cutback in
And operating at a huge loss on some margin service
hours may no longer make sense. Again, the goal here
is trying to preserve our core weekday and Saturday
County Commissioner Tim Bubb.
Anonymous
(via written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: As a non-driver, the service provided by the L.C.T. is a
service I am extremely grateful for. It is my only option for getting to
and from work, as the high cost of a taxi is prohibitive. ($30 round trip)
My job does require me to work an occasional Sunday and at least 1 or
2 nights a week. This means I will not get off work until between
9:10pm-9:20pm. Having to restrict the hours I am able to work may
result in loss of total hours or even put my job in jeopardy. I have been
very thankful for the current route schedule L.C.T. provides, and I am
very concerned about the effect that a reduction of those hours of
service may have on my employment status as well as the effect it will
have on others in the same situation as I am. Thank you for the
opportunity to share my opinion.
concerns and appreciates your patronage.
Unfortunately, the Licking County Transit Board (LCTB)
has struggled over the past year to make the numbers
work. The marginal service hours in the evenings and
those on Sunday could very well mean a large deficit
this year. The Board is reluctantly considering this
cutback in an effort to preserve the core rural mass
transit service on weekdays and Saturdays. The Board
certainly is trying to avoid having to cut core service
hours which would adversely affect many individuals,
and critical weekday trips such as medical and getting
Page 18 of 32

Unfortunately, operating at a huge loss on some
marginal service hours may no longer make sense.
Again, the goal is trying to preserve the core weekday
and Saturday transit program.
Anonymous
(via written
comment at
public input
session)
Question 1: Why not contract with Yellow Cab to pay the excess over
the cost of a LCT bus ride for those 57 people on Sun and the 12 or so
in the evening.
Thank you for your comment. The Yellow Cab service is
available to those who choose to use that service.
Joseph D K.
(via written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: YOUR RATIONALE BOARDS SEEM TO SHOW THAT SUNDAY
IS YOUR BIGGEST RIDER DAY, AT 57 RIDERS VS. 12 ON ALL THE
OTHERS. SEEMS YOU NEED TO ACTIVELY PROMOTE THE SERVICE LIKE
THE BUSINESS IT IS. MOST FOLKS SEE THE WHITE BUSES BUT HAVE NO
IDEA WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO RIDE NOR HOW TO RIDE THEMSELVES.
GUIDING CONCEPT SHOULD BE HOW TO SERVICE THE MAXIMUM # OF
RIDERS, BETTER & MORE EFFICIENTLY. SEEK THEM OUT & THEY WILL
COME.KEEP SUNDAY SERVICE SO FAMILIES CAN GET TOGETHER.
Thank you for your comment. To clarify, there are an
average of 57 trips on Sundays and the 12 trips are an
average of trips provided weekdays between the hours
of 8 pm and 11 pm. The Licking County Transit Board
(LCTB) advertises on KOOL 101.7, has a website, works
with many local and state organizations, advertises at
many local events, etc. The Board certainly is trying to
avoid having to cut core service hours which would
adversely affect many individuals, and critical weekday
trips such as medical and getting people without a ride
to work. The goal remains to try and preserve the core
weekday and Saturday transit program.
Bill K. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: IM CONCERNED THAT THE NUMBERS PRESENTED TO US
TONIGHT REFLECT ONLY COST REDUCTIONS, NOT LOST REVENUE
(HOWEVER NEGLIGIBLE- IT ADDS UP & AFFECTS THE OVERALL
PICTURE). IN ANY CASE, I ENCOURAGE THE AUTHORITIES TO REVIEW
THE OVERALL SITUATION & SEE WHAT MORE CREATIVE SOLUTIONS
ARE POSSIBLE. THE QUALITY OF A SOCIETY MAY BE JUDGED BY HOW
WE TREAT OUR LEAST FORTUNATE & BY THAT MEASURE, LICKING
COUNTY IS GETTING A LITTLE WORSE.
Board (LCTB) was required to present to the public the
rationale and outline of the proposed changes as part of
the public participation process as identified in the
LCTBs Major Service Reduction Policy. The proposed
service reduction was not an easy decision for the Board
as it knows there may be some riders affected. The
need to reduce current service hours was however
carefully examined. The ridership during the current
Page 19 of 32

service hours prior to LCTB assuming all the transit
services for Licking County was a concern. Over the past
year the ridership has been monitored as well as the
expense to operate the extensive service hours. The
Board has determined that it can no longer operate at a
huge loss for the identified service hours. The goal is to
try and preserve the core weekday and Saturday transit
program.
Anna N. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: This is a tough one. Im very concerned about the
proposed cuts in service. If ridership numbers are up, its a clear
indication of general need. Question 1: Is it fair to cut evenings in ways
that affect ones ability to work? Question 2: Is it fair to eliminate the
only option that wheelchair users have to get around on Sundays
since there is no private service that can carry them? I guess my
feeling is that we cant cut the only wheelchair transport in our area.
That does seem like discrimination. So, I guess we need to pressure
local cab companies to serve wheelchair users. Its a sad state of affairs
that our government agencies cant provide a bare minimum of
services to those who have no other options. And by the way, no one
is asking for a free lunch. Im a little offended by some of the flip
remarks Ive overheard here. Yeah, its hard. But watch yourself for
how you could sound unkind.
Thank you for your comment. The Board and its staff
would like to apologize if there were any remarks made
that were offensive as it is certainly is our continued
desire to work to serve the individuals of our
community. Answer 1: The proposed service reduction
was not an easy decision for the Board as it knows there
may be some riders affected. Answer 2: The Board
people without a ride to work. The goal remains to try
and preserve the core weekday and Saturday transit
program.
Diane J. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Question 1: What is the dollar amount of Sunday Transit services that
is county money? Question 2: Will a compilation of the written
questions and answers be provided to the public? Question 3: If so,
when?

Thank you for your questions. Answer 1: It is
approximately $1,116. The County funds are distributed
amongst the entire transit program. Answer 2: Yes.
Answer 3: They will be made available at the August 21,
2014, Board meeting.
Ken G. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: The proposed changes simply means that my Church,
Christian Apostolic N 23
rd
St, will lose several members on Sunday AM
service (10-11:30 AM) and Mid-week Weds. Service 7-8:30. My Church
states they cannot provide trans. For these saints who all are in
wheelchairs. Because of Ins. & liability issues & exp.
knows there may be some riders affected. The need to
reduce current service hours was however carefully
examined. The ridership during the current service
hours prior to LCTB assuming all the transit services for
Licking County was a concern. Over the past year the
Page 20 of 32

ridership has been monitored as well as the expense to
operate the extensive service hours. The Board has
determined that it can no longer operate at a huge loss
for the identified service hours. The goal is to try and
preserve the core weekday and Saturday transit
program.
Anonymous
(via written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: I feel that there is poor scheduling with County Transit.
Buses that make Columbus runs should make only those runs- and
keep buses for City Wide with Granville, Utica, etc. inclusive. Much
money is wasted on operating big vehicles with only 1 rider.
Board (LCTB) uses a scheduling and routing system that
is one of the leading ITS providers with over 600
systems deployed globally. This scheduling and routing
system must take into consideration when scheduling
the rides items such as trip length, trip time, individual
passenger needs, appointment times, wait times, load
and unload times, location, seating capacity of the
vehicle, drivers breaks/lunches, contract requirements,
weather, construction, ADA and other federal, state and
local requirements, etc. The LCTB has limited vans in its
fleet because it must follow the Buy America federal
regulation which has limited the opportunity to
purchase accessible vans for the fleet. It is also
important to note, there is no scheduling and routing
system that is foolproof, but the LCT staff does its best
to combine trips while taking the above items into
consideration.
Linda M. (via
written
comment at
public input
session)
Comment: On an average week day: Question 1: How many buses
(excluding vans) are run Question 2: How many passengers are
(average) covered by MRDD contract. Question 3: Are there any other
County/City subsidies? Question 4: What are the demographic on an
average day. Age- Disabled Question 5: % of runs within
Heath/Newark city limits % of runs County.
Thank you for your questions. Answer 1: During the
average weekday, there are approximately 41 total
vehicles, of which there is an average of 5 vans used.
Answer 2: There is an average of approximately 1,948
passenger trips covered by the Licking County Board of
Developmental Disabilities (LCBDD) contract per month.
Answer 3: No. Answer 4: The current program does not
have a report that identifies passengers based upon
their disability. There are approximately 459 elderly
individuals during the average day. Answer 5: The LCTB
Page 21 of 32

is required to identify trips within its Urbanized Areas
(UZA). There are approximately 73% (2,613 trips) within
the Newark UZA, 27% (986 trips) in other Rural and
Columbus UZAs. PLEASE NOTE: The Newark UZA
consists of areas in Newark, Heath, Buckeye Lake,
Hebron, St. Louisville, Granville and Hanover.
Dr. Cheryl
M. (via
written
letter and
comments
at public
input
session)
Letter: Licking County Transit Board Attention: Commissioner Tim
Bubb 20 South Second Street Newark, Ohio 16 July 2014 Members of
the Transit Board: I write to urge you to reconsider your plans to end
Sunday transit service. Commissioner Bubb was indirectly quoted in
todays Newark Advocate saying that Sundays constitute marginal
days that inflate costs, making county transit ultimately
unsustainable. While the public attending the transit meeting on July 8
was led by staff through the computations that show the enormous
savings of the service cuts, several important pieces of information
were not presented. It is irresponsible for county leaders to expect the
publics trust for its decisions when the following questions remain
unanswered: Question 1: 1) How much cutting is actually necessary?
Cathy Sheets, General Manager, presented the need for fiscal
responsibility and the reality of expected cuts from the Federal Transit
Authority. At no time, however, were specific figures for the necessary
cuts revealed, making it impossible for a thoughtful listener to
distinguish the appropriateness of the proposal. How much is our
budget? July 16, 2014 Post Meeting Comments: This was addressed
somewhat tonight. The average fiscal cost of a years worth of 9 hours
of Sunday transit is, according to the figures presented by the staff,
$108,309. Thus, cutting Sunday service entirely saves the Board
$108,309 per year, but creates incalculable difficulties for riders whose
wheelchairs cannot be accommodated by other means of
transportation. Question 2: 2) What, specifically, are the other
options that were explored and subsequently dismissed by the
Board? Staff on July 8
th
mentioned the vague notion that fare
increases were considered, an obviously unpopular option. Increasing
fares in a one size fits all manner would spread the burden, but such
Thank you for your comment. During the public input
sessions, the Licking County Transit Board (LCTB) was
required to present to the public the rationale and
outline of the proposed changes as part of the public
participation process as identified in the LCTBs Major
Service Reduction Policy. It is nearly impossible for LCTB
staff to anticipate and have available various pieces of
information that may be requested. The entire public
participation process, inclusive of the written and verbal
comments, allows for such information to be requested.
Answer 1: Unfortunately there are no guarantees with
federal, state and local funding sources. Therefore, the
LCTB presented a plan that will reduce expenditures by
approximately $320,000 by reducing services during
marginal service hours. Over the last year the Board has
made cuts in other areas and is trying to operate as lean
as possible in the current economic status of transit.
The goal is to try and preserve the core weekday and
Saturday transit program. Answer 2: Other alternatives
were discussed and considered by the Board. They are
as follows: Fare Increase: A fare increase would not be
substantial enough to cover the costs of services during
marginal service hours. In addition this would cause a
hardship on the low income individuals using the
service. Cutting of other service times: We certainly are
trying to avoid having to cut core service hours which
would adversely affect many riders taking the critical
weekday trips for medical and those individuals who are
Page 22 of 32

an increase is a tough-sell for a service that benefits low-income riders
who use it to get to work. Sunday was chosen to cut because of the
inefficiency of serving so few riders and losses derived from a high
percentage of same-day cancellations. Question 3: Was the notion of
improving efficiency for Sunday service even explored? Question 4:
Was nonrefundable prepayment considered? On July 8, Ms. Sheets
and her colleagues were asked to countenance the Boards proposal,
and they did the best they could to explain the poor information they
had. Sadly, I expect the same at this evenings meeting. However, the
publics input was relegated to written or tape recorded comments.
Question 5: Why was there no opportunity for dialogue with board
members? Without the possibility of thinking outside the box, LCTB
may well remain fiscally viable, but will nonetheless have failed to
serve our community. I write on behalf of members of my community
like Linda Lovell who was featured in todays Advocate article. Linda is
a weekly rider on Sundays. Linda has MS and her wheelchair cannot
be accommodated by regular vehicles. In addition to being someone
with a disability, however, Linda serves our community by
volunteering as an ombudsman at a local nursing home. Admirably,
she graduated from COTC after she got MS. She was named a Parent
Support volunteer of the year at MHA. As of September 1, she, like
other people who rely on our limited county transit, will be cut off
from communities of faith, groups that meet (for the most part) solely
on the very day of the week you plan to cut out entirely. I urge you to
vote against the Sunday portion of the service reduction proposal at
your meeting tomorrow. Take the need for cuts to your constituents
who can generate better, more creative, solutions to the cutbacks you
face. Please work with our community to help you identify and
implement solutions that will work for us all, including those with
physical and mental disabilities. Thank you. Sincerely, Cheryl M. Dr.
Cheryl M. July 16, 2014 Post Meeting Comments: P.S. Post-Meeting-
Thank you for the possibility of additional Q & A at tonights meeting. I
would support fundraising and campaigning for a county-wide levy.
Question 6: Why is a county sales tax out of the question? In Denver, a
without a ride to work. Tax Levy: May be an option to
generate additional operating funds to essentially
further subsidize the transit system, it would be a
Countywide transit levy; and it was determined that a
new property tax proposal would not be well received.
Joint Lease: Poses potential legal and insurance
concerns. The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission
(MORPC): MORPC was contacted in an effort to assist
with potential car or van pooling options. This may or
may not meet the needs of all riders. Potential
Alternative Services: Time is the concern with this
alternative because of the current fiscal obligations of
the LCTB. However, the Board and Licking County
Transit (LCT) staff will continue to work with a
consultant to research potential alternative services
that will best fit the needs of the community within the
financial capacity of the transit system. The estimated
time of completion is early 2015. Answer 3: Yes. The
LCTB works very hard to reduce the amount of vehicles
on all days. In addition to limiting the vehicles for
service, during the course of each day the Dispatchers
will move trips off vehicles that have received
cancellations in an effort to further reduce the amount
of vehicles in service. Answer 4: No. This option could
result in potential ADA regulation violations as a public
transit provider cannot demand payment for no-shows,
in essence a public transit provider cannot demand an
individual pay for services not provided. Answer 5: The
format of the public participation process followed the
LCTBs Major Service Reduction Policy. Answer 6: It was
determined that a Countywide transit levy would not be
well received at this time. Answer 7: This question will
be presented to the LCTBs legal for opinion.
Page 23 of 32

1% arts/science district tax has raised money for arts & science
organizations since the 1990s. Question 7: Is this an Ohio Statute?
Jennifer H.
(via email
comment)
Comment: Cathy, thank you for sending me your email. Here are the
comments I tried to post on the website email. Jennifer Sent from my
iPhone. I attended tonight's Public Hearing on the potential reduction
in service hours. I want to say that I am more worried now than I was
before I attended. The funding problem is terrible and it doesn't seem
like it is going to get better. The decision to reduce the service hours
and make life a lot worse for people is WRONG. The necessary action
is to get the Public to realize the CRISIS and come together to fund
public transportation. The service today is often substandard at best,
I'm sorry to say and I want to fight hard to keep it from being reduced!
It could be so much better and serve more people, but it needs to be
adequately funded by the whole community coming together to make
a difference in everyone's lives! Imagine if we lived in a community
that enabled everyone to get where they needed easily! Young adults
getting to their first jobs, working class adults getting to work so they
don't have to own a car before they can financially afford it, elderly
getting to and from stores, church, relatives and friends houses,
disabled adults getting to and from stores, church, relatives and
friends houses, veterans that served our country but lost the ability to
drive, getting to where they needed! It would be a beautiful thing! We
need to think outside of the box! We as a community should not
tolerate anything less! Instead of cutting dollars from the current
budget and watching the service crumble to its death, take time now
to bring it to everyone's attention and serve the community through
good public transportation! Employers need reliable workers getting
to work! We have a wonderful college campus that there might be
more attending if more reliable transportation existed. Question 1: Do
people going through rehabilitation in Licking County realize they
could still get out if they only knew about the wheelchair accessible
buses? Question 2: Would more elderly nursing home residents get
out if their families knew that this service was available? Doctors and
nurses would recommend this if they knew about it and they could
knows there may be some riders affected. Over the past
year the ridership has been monitored as well as the
expense to operate the extensive service hours. The
Board has determined that it can no longer operate at a
huge loss for the identified service hours. The goal is to
try and preserve the core weekday and Saturday transit
program and improve the quality of services provided.
Answer 1: The Licking County Transit Board (LCTB)
advertises on KOOL 101.7, has a website, works with
many local and state organizations, advertises at many
local events, etc. Answer 2: Currently many care
facilities utilize the Licking County Transit (LCT) system.
Answer 3: The LCTB has a contract with Licking County
Ohio Means Jobs and refers many of their clients to the
LCT system.
Page 24 of 32

rely on it for their patients! Question 3: What if Job & Family Services
could help more people with transportation needs? They might if they
had more trust in the service and knew it was reliable for all of the
county residents and all of their needs (work, shopping, medical).
Don't take away Sundays and a few hours in the week!! It will kill the
chance of making the Public support new changes that could make it
better. A new financial summary needs to be put together and be
published in the paper. Show how many people use the service every
day, how many dollars it costs every day. But also show how many
dollars come in as revenue and where they come from. Show what
funding is most at risk for future cuts so people understand the
current crisis and the future crisis NOW, not when it is too late!! Show
how much it costs per rider or per mile and how much the fares that
are collected cover. Show that the funding method has to change
NOW in order to keep and improve the service! Show Licking County
how much or how little its tax dollars go into supporting public
transportation. Maybe more Public support would come if the
numbers show who is being served well and how many more people
could be served better. Ask the Public for a SIGN that they are
committed to helping! Ask the churches to work with the Transit
Board somehow. Maybe all agencies helping families in the county
with transportation costs could stop giving money to families directly
for junky cars that bleed the family of more money and instead give
money to the public transportation system to make it better for ALL
FAMILIES! Poverty in Licking County is a problem, but the Transit
Board isn't only about serving citizens in poverty. The Transit Board is
about serving all people who need help with transportation, poor or
elderly, permanently or temporarily disabled - anyone who finds
themselves in need of getting places when their own ability to
transport themselves has been thwarted, anyone who has owned a
vehicle knows that problems can happen any time. I was so fortunate
to use the service almost weekly for the past 4 years to accompany my
elderly father to church. I want others to have the same opportunity.
Please take time to find a new way. Our community needs this service!
Page 25 of 32

Jennifer H.
Anonymous
(via written
comment)
Comment: Scenario: A 19 yr-old female with a developmental
disability and seizure disorder is attempting to obtain employment in
an effort to become and independent, self-sufficient contributing
member of society. She applies at several places. The local grocery
store calls asking her to come in for an interview. At the interview the
store manager reviews her application, admiring her ambition. She has
presented herself well and seems enthusiastic. He decides to give her
a chance. He offers her an entry level position telling her she will begin
with a schedule consisting of evening and weekend hours. Once she
has been there a few years her hours will transition to daytime hours
with occasional weekends. She explains that due to her seizure
disorder she is unable to obtain a drivers license. Her family works
random hours so she relies on transit to get to places. She goes on to
explain as a result of her reliance on transit she cannot work Sundays,
after 6 pm Saturdays or after 8 pm weekdays. The manager looks at
her apologetically. He says based on this complication he will not be
able to offer her the job after all. He explains that many current
employees are awaiting the time when their schedules transition to
the more desirable hours. If he were to offer her the job with those
hours right from the start it would create an atmosphere of bad
morale and in addition make her a target of ill will from fellow
employees. He wishes her luck and encourages her to come back and
see him if her transportation issues are eliminated. He then mentions
she might consider applying for social security disability. She thanks
him for his time. Then once out of his office she calls for her ride
home. She sits on the bench watching people come and go at their
will. She tries to fight back tears as she wonders to herself, whats the
use. Please reconsider your plans to reduce the hours of service. The
disabled already have numerous obstacles in their path, they do not
need another.
concerns; the proposed service reduction was not an
easy decision to make. Unfortunately, the Licking
County Transit Board (LCTB) has struggled over the past
year to make the numbers work. The marginal service
hours in the evenings and those on Sunday could very
well mean a large deficit this year. The Board is
reluctantly considering this cutback in an effort to
preserve the core rural mass transit service on
weekdays and Saturdays. The Board certainly is trying to
to work. Over the last year we have made cuts and are
trying to operate as lean as possible in this expensive
large County a challenge. Unfortunately, operating at a
huge loss on some marginal service hours may no
longer make sense. Again, the goal is trying to preserve
the core weekday and Saturday transit program.
Anonymous
(via written
comment
Comment: I like most of the change the only thing that I think should
be added to the new change is that the Transit should at least run on
Sunday long enough to get people to and from church for the people
reduction was not an easy decision for the Board to
make. The marginal service hours in the evenings and
Page 26 of 32

collected on
bus)
that do not have a ride to and from church but besides that I like the
Licking County Transits change.
those on Sunday could very well mean a large deficit
this year. The Board is reluctantly considering this
cutback in an effort to preserve the core rural mass
transit service on weekdays and Saturdays. The Board
Unfortunately, operating at a huge loss on some
marginal service hours may no longer make sense.
Lorretta F
W. (via
written
comment
collected on
bus)
Comment: We have always been more than happy from the
schedulers drivers & dispatch the new schedule would be fine. 1-10 on
svc. 10+
Thank you for your comment and thank you for your
kind words. The Licking County Transit Board (LCTB)
staff and National Express drivers will continue to
provide you with the best service possible.

Keith G. (via
written
comment
collected on
bus)
Comment: Fawn is great for Booking Apts. Its been a Blessing to me.
Service hours are perfect for me. The Drivers are pleasant &
consistent. Thank you for helping me. Dispatch is wonderful.
Thank you for your comment and thank you for your
kind words. The Licking County Transit Board (LCTB)
staff and National Express drivers will continue to
provide you with the best service possible.

Peggy J. (via
written
comment by
mail)
Comment: Im devastated to learn of pending cuts to the transit
service. I hope you exhaust all efforts before making the decision
permanent. I dont ever feel people have had full knowledge of this
service (poor communications). Church is very important to the
people. Their only choice of socialization and hope. While I dont need
your services at the moment, I have no idea what the future will be.
Im proud of my city but feel all of us seniors are being thrown to the
make. Unfortunately, the Licking County Transit Board
(LCTB) has struggled over the past year to make the
numbers work. Marketing efforts have included
advertisements on the radio station KOOL 101.7, on the
website, working with many local and state
Page 27 of 32

wolves. Everything is website and most cannot afford computers and
all the fancy telephones. Please remember, we seniors are the ones
that have passed all the levies and now we are all to be forgotten.
Sincerely, Peg J.
organizations, advertisements at many local events,
advertising in the Licking County Senior Directory, etc.
The marginal service hours in the evenings and those on
Sunday could very well mean a large deficit this year.
The Board is reluctantly considering this cutback in an
effort to preserve the core rural mass transit service on
weekdays and Saturdays. The Board certainly is trying to
to work. Unfortunately, the LCTB cannot continue to
operate at a huge loss on some of the more marginal
service hours. Again, the goal is trying to preserve the
core weekday and Saturday transit program.
Barbara B.
(via written
comment
collected on
bus)
Comment: Im fortunate that as of now, the change in hours would
not affect me. However, my working hours might change in the near
future, and I might be required to work evenings. I am single, live
alone, and dont own a vehicle. If my hours change, and I have to work
till 9 pm, I will not have way home. I am also concerned about closing
LCT on Sundays. If I fall and twist my ankle (for example), I would be
forced to call an Ambulance. My friends and neighbors have jobs,
families, and they cant take care of me. I am also a Medicaid patient,
so taking LCT to an Urgent Care Center offers me a way to maximize
my benefits, and save tax money for the State. Riding in an Ambulance
is much more expensive. I am angry that these forms, and also the
written notices in the buses, were not available until after the public
meetings had taken place. Had I known about the meetings, I would
have attended one. These forms and the notices were not available
until 7/18/2014. They should have been available at least a week
BEFORE the first meeting. In conclusion, I believe the proposed
changes do not serve the public good, and they should not be
adopted. Barbara B.
numbers work. The marginal service hours in the
evenings and those on Sunday could very well mean a
large deficit this year. The Board is reluctantly
medical and getting people without a ride to work.
Unfortunately, the LCTB cannot continue to operate at a
huge loss on some of the more marginal service hours.
and Saturday transit program. Regrettably the LCTB was
not able to get the comment sheets on the buses until
July 18, 2014. However, the LCTB advertised the public
input sessions on the radio station KOOL 101.7 and on
Page 28 of 32

its website starting the first week of July 2014 and
advertised in the Advocate on July 6, 2014.
Ray G. (via
email
comment)
Comment: Comments are below: Please dont cancel Sunday
transportation since I am no longer able to drive and often times need
transportation to and from church. I would be willing to pay a higher
rate in order to maintain this service. Thank you?
Saturdays. Unfortunately, a fare increase would not be
substantial enough to cover the costs of services during
marginal service hours. In addition this would cause a
hardship on the low income individuals using the
service.
Ron S. (via
verbal
comment)
Comment: Concerned about Countyride- calling to voice my opinion. I
ride Countyride for all my Dr. Apt. and for other needs. We dont need
to be losing hours on Countyride. I hope we dont because the fact it
makes it bad if someones gotta go to the Hospital they can call
Countyride and not the squad or Yellow Cab, but nothing against
Yellow Cab so dont think there is. If someone can get to the Hospital
they dont have to call the Ambulance which may cost more money to
the taxpayers. So Im voicing my opinion on this, I do ride Countyride
so let Tim Bubb know this and I appreciate it. Ill talk to you later. Bye.
April R. (via Comment: Hi my name is A Riggleman. Id like you not to cancel the Thank you for your comment. The proposed service
Page 29 of 32

verbal
comment)
appointments on Sunday. I did try to make an appointment to go out
to eat on Sunday but I evidently dont know what I am doing to do this.
I still would like to make an appointment to go out to eat this week to
go eat somewhere but I am not sure how to do this. Please do not take
away our Sundays, thats the only kind of transportation people like I
that have no transportation have to get anyplace. Thank you so much.
Herb D. (via
verbal
comment)
Comment: Tim, good morning. This is Herb D. I am a resident here in
Licking County. I go to church and I am a devout Christian. I
understand the concern that is revolving around the Transit
Authoritys decision to discontinue service on Sunday; however, I do
feel that the Commissioners and Transit Authority are being, if I use
the term, bullied a little bit in the media with the Ministers and so on.
There surely is a way to resolve that, why cant the Ministers meet
with the Commissioners and the Transit Authority and work out some
equitable solution to this so that the taxpayers are not just bullied into
another expenditure. Tim, If you would like further opinion on this,
Herb D. Again, thank you Tim and good Luck with this issue.
Thank you for your comment.
Anonymous
(via written
comment)
Comment: I work late sometimes to 11:00. Thank you for your comment.
Page 30 of 32

Blanche F.
(via written
comment)
Comment: Dear LCTB I want to voice my concern with the service hour
reductions. Sundays may be a day where many people do not use the
transit for work, but by cutting Sundays you will deprive residents of
Licking County rides to church and back as well as visits to family
members, or simply running errands on a day off. Please for these
reasons I ask you to reconsider reducing service hours.
Anne E. (via
written
comment)
Comment: Having riden the transit buses for only the last nine days I
am extremely happy with the service, buses, timing, the drivers,
everything. I think removing the Sunday service (less riders) is good for
the financial reasons and shortening the hours daily. Both are great!
The only other idea would be to have specific route times, less
customized routes. I am speaking of only myself, others needs may
cause frowns on my comments. Whatever works and makes the most
money for you.
Thank you for your comment and kind words.
April R. (via
phone
conversation
with staff)
Comment: I dont want you to give up Sunday rides, this is only chance
of riding.
Page 31 of 32

Ronald E. S.
II (via
written
comment
collected on
bus)
Comment: There is no reason to cut back the hours of operation,
There are many riders who depend on you and this would cause
hardship. You obviously have the business because your usually late
picking me up because of all of the riders at the time. Sincerely, Ronald
E. S. II

and Saturday transit program. If you wish to contact the
LCTB administrative department the Transit Operations
Specialist #740-670-5225 would be happy to look into
your late pick-ups.
Mona S. (via
written
comment
mailed to
LCT)
Comment: We would very much appreciate Sunday hours so that we
could attend church. Mona S.
Page 32 of 32

Don S. (via
written
comment
mailed to
LCT)
Comment: I would appreciate Sunday hours, as I need to use a
wheelchair for church. Don S.

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