×

Faribault and Martin Counties: Transit system to help food shelves

FAIRMONT — The Faribault Martin County Transit board met Tuesday for a special conference call meeting to address how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting riders, drivers, and the system as a whole. The board unanimously approved a motion to adopt a food shelf assistance program to support local food shelves.

According to information provided by Transit Director Jeremy Monahan, there is an ongoing effort to support local food shelves with the delivery of packages containing necessary provisions for those that normally utilize the food shelf. The Minnesota Department of Transportation is fully behind any transit system’s effort to help with food delivery efforts during the crisis, provided it is done within a current service level. Due to a reduction in ridership, the transit service has the capacity in terms of staff and vehicles to help a number of locations and residents with the service.

Turning to another matter, the board discussed, but ultimately rejected, any changes to the current bus fare collection policy at the moment, citing the uncertain nature of when the pandemic might end.

“Currently we are still collecting fares,” said Monahan. “Some systems have decided, in the interest of limiting exposure, to stop charging fares during the pandemic. Our fares are now collected almost exclusively through cash, check, or token payment at the fare box because just about all of our invoice charge rides are on pause right now because the facilities we serve with those are closed.

“Our policy is that our drivers are not to handle the fares regardless, the passengers are supposed to put them in the fare box. Sometimes it’s a habit for riders to hand their payment to the drivers. The drivers are allowed to inspect the fare to make sure it’s the proper amount, but usually they can see that once it’s in the tower.

Board member Tom Warmka stated that he was not in favor of suspending fares.

“I think the system has taken a big enough hit now, that to run for free is just going to put us that much farther behind. The drivers can use rubber gloves to take that money out of the fare box, and people can use common sense to count their money using rubber gloves.”

Board member Tom Loveall also weighed in.

“When you go to the grocery store you’re having to interact and you wash your hands well and don’t touch your face. I think it’s manageable, the money’s not going to breathe on you. We’ve got to get back to normal sometime, it isn’t now, but I would caution about over reacting.”

In other action, the board:

— Approved a motion granting the Board’s executive committee to make decisions that will then be reported to the full board. The move is expected to increase efficiency for decisions that need to be made quickly in light of the current pandemic, as well as limit the need for grouping together too often.

— Approved a personnel policy amendment in order to be in compliance with the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.65/week.

Subscribe Today