Complaints jeopardize Action's transit venture

Staff

Published Thursday, March 28, 2002

Community Action of Freeborn County's undertaking to operate Mower County Transit became dubious after the Mower County commissioners decided to reconsider approving the final contract with the organization Tuesday.

Thursday, March 28, 2002

Community Action of Freeborn County's undertaking to operate Mower County Transit became dubious after the Mower County commissioners decided to reconsider approving the final contract with the organization Tuesday.

Instead of signing the contract, the county board decided to table the proposal until its next meeting on April 9.

Community Action had won a bid to operate the transportation system, which currently has six regular bus routes and two Work Express lines in Austin and door-to-door riding services all over the county.

However, the Minnesota Department of Transportation has been expressing concerns about the takeover.

In addition to the uncertainty of the organization's capability in public transportation management, MnDOT has been questioning if the operator residing outside the county is appropriate.

Further, being displeased with the compensation package Community Action has offered for employees, MCT Director Kim Jensen has submitted her resignation.

Jensen is displeased with the budget plan that will provide health insurance for only three full-time employees.

The pressure against the deal with the Albert Lea non-profit was fueled by a proposal from the City of Austin to establish a joint-powers agreement between the county and city.

In a meeting organized by the city to talk over the issue, Mayor Bonnie Rietz expressed the city's intent to get involved in the service by orchestrating a joint-powers agreement with the county to take over the operation.

"The city's offer sounds positive, and we are open to work with the plans," said Jean Meyer, MnDOT District 6 manager/planner.

"Retaining capable employees by facilitating an affordable livelihood is a key long-term solution to maintain good service," Meyer said. The agency, which funds about a half of $650,000 operational budget, will examine every possible alternative, she added.

Meanwhile, Community Action will review the structure of its proposed budget to figure out if it can increase the compensation for employees, and negotiate with insurance agents to seek a better deal.

Executive Director Collette Turcotte said, "I want all the employees to have insurance. But there is no money available, and that is the reality."

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