[NFBO-Linn-benton] Proposed HUGE changes to paratransit services for Benton County

[sallycu998 at gmail.com]

Hi Kristen,

 

I will plan to be there.

Where can I find more info about this proposal, and  the "whys" of it?

 

Thanks,

Sally

 

From: NFBO-Linn-benton <nfbo-linn-benton-bounces at nfbnet.org> On Behalf Of
Kristen Jocums via NFBO-Linn-benton
Sent: Thursday, February 5, 2026 6:12 AM
To: 'NFB of Oregon Linn-Benton Chapter List' <nfbo-linn-benton at nfbnet.org>
Cc: kjocums at icloud.com
Subject: [NFBO-Linn-benton] Proposed HUGE changes to paratransit services
for Benton County

 

Hello Amazing Linn-Benton Chapter Members,

 

I  am writing to ask for your assistance.  

 

Benton County is moving forward on plans to stop using Dial A  Bus for
paratransit services and other tax payer-paid rides.  The County is looking
at  self-performing the services, meaning that they will hire new staff and
change systems of delivery, resulting in a  cost increase of at least
$908,000.00 to the tax  payer and causing Dial A  Bus employees to lose
their jobs.  

The current indication is that the County  wants to move back to the style
of scheduling and service they experimented with several years ago with the
VIA software program.  That was the system where they increased the amount
of time they could make you wait for a  ride and the amount of time you
could be riding on the bus.

 

There is a  meeting Of the STIF Advisory Committee on March 2  from 2-4  pm
where public comment can be made regarding the County's plan.  The County is
supposed to attain the STIF's approval on these types of changes, so the
STIF needs to hear from riders on their thoughts about these proposed
changes prior to making their decision on whether to approve or oppose the
County plans.

 

The location of the meeting has not yet been determined.  However, Dial A
Bus will provide rides to the meeting.  I will let you know when the
location of the meeting is set.  

 

If you have thoughts on the wisdom of the proposal to increase tax payer
expenses while decreasing the quality of service to the rider, please clear
your calendar and come to the meeting.  Even if you do not want to speak at
the meeting, your physical presence will show the STIF Advisory Committee
how important you think this topic is.

 

I'll be back  in touch about more details as we move forward.  It would be
helpful if you could let me know if you can come and if you would like to
speak or if you would like to be an audience member.

 

Thank you so much for your amazing energy and passion, LB folks - we're
going to need it!

 

  

 

    

 

Kristen Jocums

(706) 718-8055

 

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