HomeMy WebLinkAboutPTAC Packet July 10 2025
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TO: Public Transportation Advisory Commission
FROM: Kraig Boynton, Transit Manager
DATE: June 27, 2025
SUBJECT: Meeting Notice
A regular meeting of the Galesburg Public Transportation Advisory Commission (PTAC) is
scheduled for Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in the Transit Conference Room at the Transit
Maintenance Facility, 1025 Monmouth Blvd.
Commission Members, please contact us at 345-3659, if you cannot attend the meeting.
AGENDA PUBLIC HEARING
Public Comment
Approve Minutes of the regular meeting of May 8, 2025.
PT-25-0701 Approve Draft Paratransit Application and Catalog
Update Galesburg Public Transportation Updates
cc: Eric Hanson, City Manager Council Members (7)
Steve Gugliotta, Dir. Of Community Dev. Mayor
Kelli Bennewitz, City Clerk Media
Dedra Mannon, Transit Operations Supervisor File Copy
Public Transporta on Advisory Commission Public Hearing
Transit Maintenance Facility,1025 Monmouth Blvd. Galesburg, IL
Thursday, May 8, 2025
1:00 p.m.
Members Present: Linda Miller, John Peterson, Genny Gibson, Anne e McAllister, Stephanie
Grimes, Rose Morris, Shannon McVey, 7
Also present: Kraig Boynton, Dedra Mannon and Mary Foutch.
Genny Gibson called the mee ng to order at 1:10 p.m .
Public Comment:
None
A mo on was made by Member Miller , seconded by Member Grimes, to approve the special
mee ng minutes dated March 6, 2025. A mo on was made by Member Grimes, seconded by
Member Morris to approve the regular minutes dated March 6, 2025. The mo on carried.
Update
Kraig Boynton , Transit Manager, updated the commission on the following items:
MAIN GRANT REVENUE SOURCES
DOAP/5311/CARES have been billed through March 2025
Descrip on Amount Note
Total Expenses $1,857,287.25
5311 Revenues $351,507.00 Balance: $0
DOAP Revenue $1,207,236.71 Balance Available $769,803.29
Project Income $39,349.59
Local Match $36,515.24
Local Match Needed $222,678.71 From City
Opera ng Grant Funds applied for in State Fiscal Year 2026:
● Federal – 5311 Grant $351,507 (Reimb. 80% of Admin Exp; 50% of Oper Exp)
● State – DOAP Grant $1,977,040 (Reimb. 65% total net expenses)
STAFFING
· I would like to offer kudos to Dedra, Mary, Sherry, Jenn, Melinda & Terri for their hard work
last week in picking up the new dispatch so ware. This is a humongous change from our old
method and they took it on with open minds.
· We have part- me posi ons open for: 3 bus drivers, 2 paratransit drivers, one dispatcher.
FLEET - Vehicles Updates as of 05/07/25
401 and 405 – Both Gillig buses have been approved for disposal by both IDOT and the City.
Due to the age and condi on of these vehicles. They will be scrapped.
That leaves us with nine fixed route vehicles. Of those, currently with issue is:
1701- It will not start. Prior to failure, it had Allison transmission codes and the driver could not
get it over 15 mph. There is concern about electrical engine failure. Staff have contacted SMTD
for advice on this one. Note: This is the vehicle we just recently spent close to $80,000 to
repair.
1301 – may have some issues. It is being checked out by the mechanics today.
459 needs a muffler
461, 462, 464, & 468, - These paratransit buses have been approved for disposal by the City; but
awai ng approval from the State. Mary is working on this paperwork.
That leaves us with thirteen paratransit buses. Of those, repair issues are as follows:
NONE!!!!!
New logos are/have been added to the new equipment. Mary will be coordina ng with the
installer to come back and add logos to our 22-passenger buses that we received used.
GRANT UPDATES
Rebuild Round II (Dispatch so ware) Dispatch so ware is up and running on the Handivan side.
For the most part it has been well received. This is a monumental change from our pen and
paper system so we are looking forward to seeing what all we can do with it repor ng wise, etc.
One interes ng feature is that punch cards are going away. The system offers an epass func on
where we can load funds directly to a clients account and they can spend those funds down
according.
Our next step will be to implement the fixed route por on of the system. This will allow for the
easier collec on of data for our repor ng and we hope to implement a pass system on the fixed
route side as well to get further away from cash! We will also be implemen ng Passio’s tracking
devices on the buses which will provide for a new, more robust app for our patrons to u lize. As
you may be aware, the exis ng Mastrack system has been clunky. With that said, the exis ng
app will cease to func on this month as we migrate to the new so ware. So, due to contract
ming, there will be a short period of me that there will not be an app to use. Of course, as
we go live, we will market this new app to the best of our abili es. Ul mately, this will be a
good switch for rider experience as well as our repor ng needs.
Primer Process – The Primer Process has been in a holding pa ern while our RTAC
representa ve was off during the month of April (required by IDOT for PT staff). I talked to Mr.
Hefflin on the phone on Wednesday and discussed where we are at. I updated him that the we
were not awarded funds from the Knox County Mental Health Board to provide the an cipated
local match to serve the county. As you may recall, the City is not willing to go countywide
without the County adding money to offset the required local match to make this happen. With
a system fully opera onal, it is an cipated that we would need an addi onal $500,000 in local
match to offset expenses.
I will be revisi ng the budget and then we hope to set up a conversa on with IDOT and the
County.
CVP requests – We have received seven new paratransits! We now wait for IDOT to come to an
agreement with the vendor on new year pricing so that we can order the fixed route buses that
we desperately need. Hopefully, the pricing structure will s ll allow us to order five units.
These buses would be paid for with funding from the next grant on this list.
FED Grant for two buses – In February 2024, I confirmed with IDOT that they would be
processing an amendment so we could purchase the 22 passenger vehicles instead of Gillig ’s
under this grant. I also reminded them that the grant was set to expire 12/31/24 and would
need to be extended. IDOT provided an amendment document in July which was approved by
Council 07/15/24) and returned to IDOT to process.
Since July 2024, IDOT realized that a Federal Amendment would have had to have been
processed in addi on to the State amendment we signed in July. Their solu on then was to
order the buses off of the CVP with an amendment (at state level to the CVP) and then
reallocate this grant elsewhere. This conversa on occurred at the beginning of October with
Karen Rogulja. I have not received any paperwork. A follow-up email was sent to Karen Rogulja
on 10/28 and 11/14.
My last conversa on was that they would need to obtain revised pricing from the vendor as the
cutoff for the current vehicles had passed. This is to be done a er they work out delivery of the
current CVP vehicles. No new updates as of 05/07/25.
Low-No emission buses (2): As with the CVP, we are at the mercy of IDOT working with the
vendor to deliver these. I will con nue to follow up with IDOT as we will have to have power in
place to service the charging sta ons that are supposed to come with these units. (No change
since February.) Sent follow-up email to Zoe on 11/14/24. Given the change in leadership at
the Federal level, it is thought that these grants will most likely be rolled back. No new updates
as of 05/07/25.
CARES Grant – We currently have a balance of $506,606.87 in CARES Funds available. It is now
nearly impossible to spend these dollars unless it is an emergency situa on….and capital items
do not count as emergency situa ons. In March of 2022, the former bureau chief asked for a
list of “capital” type projects that we could use these funds on. At the me we submi ed two
projects: 1) Repair to the exis ng roof (which we already completed due to a leak) and 2)
installa on of a generator out here for the building. We are being told that agreements will be
coming in the near future for these (this has been said for almost two years now); but we are
hopeful there may finally be some movement on this front.
Galesburg Community Founda on - The Galesburg Community Founda on has just opened up a
grant opportunity for “Turnout Grants.” We are in the process of purchasing addi onal cameras
for new buses coming in and I am going to apply to leverage these funds for that purchase. I
would also consider submi ng a separate applica on to pay for des na on signage on the
buses. It is a fairly quick turn around so I will begin the process as soon as possible.
IDOT – In the bi-monthly mee ng this month, IDOT staff announced that a new call for project
will be released in the next few weeks for Capital purchases. They are specifically looking for
shovel ready type projects. Although not specifically shovel ready, I do plan to submit an
applica on for expansion of this building u lizing design plans we received from Legat
Architects and see if I can get anywhere on that front. The funding is State funding with road
fund dollars. Ul mately, I an cipate they already have some projects lined up for this; but they
can’t say no if you don’t ask.
MISCELLANEOUS
Service Contracts in place:
Name of Agreement Value Expira on Date
Sandburg College $4,000.00 08/31/25
KCHA $25,000.00 12/31/27
Knox College 3,000.00 02/28/26
*Knox Co Veterans Assistance No cap N/A
WCHA $25,000.00 12/31/27
WIAAA $36,509 09/30/25
I have a ached some Ride Data Reports for the system as well as service contracts that are
ac ve. In each instance, our numbers con nue to increase annually.
I am hopeful that in the near future we will be able to announce a service agreement with OSF
Hospital, Thrive (former KCCDD), and Graham Hospital.
With the new dispatch so ware in place, Mary and I will now also be researching the poten al
for Medicaid, Medicare, and Mo ve Care services to serve as local match.
In addi on, Dedra will be reviewing the Handivan applica on to greatly simplify it so that we
can get patrons that need this service signed up in a simpler fashion.
Member Peterson mo oned to adjourn the mee ng, seconded by Member McVey .
The mee ng adjourned at 1:58 p.m
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TO: Public Transportation Advisory Commission
FROM: Kraig Boynton, Transit Manager
DATE: June 27, 2025
SUBJECT: Agenda Item PT-25-0701
As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance accessibility and efficiency for our paratransit services,
Galesburg Public Transportation has undertaken a revision of key documentation to align with
recent updates to our transportation software system. In particular, staff have been working
diligently to simplify and clarify the Paratransit Application and the Paratransit Ride Catalog.
We are pleased to share with you draft versions of both documents for your review in advance
of our upcoming Public Transit Advisory Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 10,
2025.
These updates are designed to:
Improve the clarity of information presented to applicants and riders.
Reflect procedural changes driven by the new paratransit scheduling and eligibility system.
Make the application process more user-friendly and reduce administrative complexity.
Ensure all ride-related materials are consistent with current software features and
capabilities.
Your insights and feedback on these drafts are critical to ensuring the materials are both
comprehensive and accessible to our community members who rely on paratransit services.
Please take the time to review both documents prior to the July meeting. We will allocate time
on the agenda to discuss your observations and finalize any necessary adjustments before the
documents are officially adopted and distributed.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to improving public transportation in
Galesburg.
C:\Users\mfoutch\Downloads\Draft 2025 Paratransit Ride Application (1).docx
Updated 06/16/25
ADA PARATRANSIT APPLICANT INFORMATION
APPLICANT________________________________ DATE OF BIRTH ______/______/_______
ADDRESS________________________________________________________________________
PHONE(___)________________MALE______ FEMALE ____Are you a Veteran? Yes____NO___
Emergency Contact: __________________________________ PHONE(___)_________________
Disability or Health Information
Indicate all conditions which affect your ability to use the city bus and requires that you use the
Paratransit service. Check all that apply:
___ General Medical Conditions: Please specify____________________________________________
____Bone and Joint Conditions: Please specify_____________________________________________
____Brain/Nerves/Muscle Conditions: Please specify________________________________________
____Lung and Breathing Conditions: Please specify_________________________________________
____Vision/Hearing/Speech Conditions: Please specify______________________________________
____Developmental/Mental Conditions: Please specify______________________________________
Mobility Aids Do you use any of the following? Check all that apply:
_____ Wheelchair ______Cane _____Walker______Service Dog _____Oxygen
The disability is ____ Permanent or ____Temporary
Do you require a Personal Care Attendant when you use PARATRANSIT? Check one:
YES NO ** The customer must provide his or her Personal Care Attendant. The Personal Care
Attendant cannot be a registered Paratransit Client and must be physically able to assist the rider.
I hereby certify that to the best of my knowledge the information given above is correct.
*Signature of Applicant ____________________________________ Date: ____________________
Return application to 1025 Monmouth Blvd. Galesburg, IL 61401 OR Fax to 309-343-0576 OR
email to dmannon@ci.galesburg.il.us
C:\Users\mfoutch\Downloads\Draft 2025 Paratransit Ride Application (1).docx
Updated 06/16/25
ADA PARATRANSIT APPLICANT INFORMATION Continued-
Paratransit Health Care Consent
Clearly print the name of the health care professional who will be certifying your application.
Name of health care professional:__________________________________________________
I hereby certify that to the best of my knowledge the information given above is correct and I authorize
the patient named above to receive paratransit services from the City of Galesburg. To qualify for
Paratransit Service, a person must be unable to use regular public transit such as a taxi, due to a physical
or mental disability.
Check only one:
______ Can use regular public transit buses on a fixed route schedule.
______ Cannot use regular public transit at all
NAME:______________________________________TITLE:____________________
PROFESSIONAL LICENSE# (if applicable). __________________________________
OFFICE ADDRESS: ______________________________________________________
OFFICE PHONE NUMBER:________________________________________________
I hereby certify that the above information is true. The City of Galesburg Transit office
will (1) verify the validity of the license of the health professional providing the
certification, (2) make the final determination on an applicant's eligibility for Paratransit
Service.
__________________________________ ____________
Health Care Professional Signature Date
The City of Galesburg does not discriminate in the provision of programs, services or activities on the basis of race,
color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, or disability. Nor does the City employ standards that would tend to
screen or limit the participation of individuals in any of the programs, activities, or services sponsored by the City of
Galesburg on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age or disability.
Return application to 1025 Monmouth Blvd. Galesburg, IL 61401 OR Fax to 309-343-0576 OR
email to dmannon@ci.galesburg.il.us
Paratransit Catalog of Service
ݟݠݡݢ 1025 Monmouth Blvd, Galesburg, IL 61401
ᔎᔏᔐ Phone: (309) 345-3686 | Fax: (309) 343-0576
Service Overview
Paratransit is an origin-to-destination, lift-equipped transportation service for individuals
with temporary or permanent disabilities preventing them from using regular transit.
• Service area: City limits and each township in Knox County directly connected to the
City of Galesburg, including: Henderson, Sparta, Knox, Orange, and Cedar.
• Extended service in Knox County (separate policy applies)
Operating Hours & Fares
• Operations: Monday–Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Scheduling: Monday - Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Closed: Christmas, New Year’s, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving
• Fares:
o $1.00 per one-way in-town trips (7 AM–6 PM) – Exact change required
o $5.00 per one-way township trips (7 AM – 6PM) - Exa
• Fares may be purchased in advance and will be saved as an E-pass on each
passenger profile. These rides may be purchased at the time of pickup with cash or
by calling into the office with cash or credit card.
• All rides are scheduled on a first come; first served basis.
Eligibility & Application
• Available to those with qualifying disabilities
• Apply in person, request by phone, request by email, pull from City website.
• Accessible formats available upon request
• ᔎᔏᔐ Call (309) 345-3686 to apply
Service Policies
Personal Assistance
• Riders must provide their own Personal Care Attendant (PCA)
• One PCA allowed per rider; must be independent and capable of caring for rider.
• PCAs are not automatically eligible for paratransit service
Rider Responsibility
• Riders or PCA are responsible for all belongings including:
o Luggage and other personal property
o Oxygen tanks which are not portable
o Groceries and other items such as parcels and furniture.
o Support equipment such as personal toilets.
o Wheelchairs or any other mobility device.
Riders are responsible for the proper operation of any equipment they carry. Drivers
are not responsible for fixing, charging, or modifying equipment that is not in proper
working order.
Children & Equipment
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Riders must bring their own child seats
• Oxygen tanks must be securely attached to mobility devices
• No transport of inoperable or unsafe mobility equipment
• Drivers do not assist with personal belongings or operate equipment
Animals
• Service animals are permitted on Public Transportation. Under the FTA, a service
animal is defined as “any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained
to work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability,”
• Domestic pets are allowed on Paratransit for the purpose of seeking veterinary care
or comfort animal services. If at any time the animal is not in it’s owners control the
passenger will be asked to secure the animal in a carrier for the animal, driver and
passenger’s protection.
• In any instance, if an animal poses a threat to the driver or other passengers on the
bus, it is allowable to request the animal be removed.
Scheduling & Trips
• Provide complete addresses of pickup and drop off location when scheduling
• Schedule/change rides through the Transit Office only
• Riders will receive a reminder call/message the night before and a reminder call or
message when the driver is on their way.
• Return trip requests must be made before 5:00 PM unless otherwise arranged
Subscription Trips
• Regularly scheduled rides can be added to the schedule
• Subject to availability; waiting lists may apply
No‐Show & Cancellation Policy
• Cancel as early as possible by calling (309) 345-3686
• 3 no-shows in 3 months = 2-week suspension (unless beyond rider’s control)
• Written notice provided for all suspensions
ADA Eligibility Appeals
• Must appeal within 60 days of denial
• Decisions made within 30 days, or presumptive eligibility is granted
• Appeals go to a neutral third party selected by the City Manager
• Written notification provided on decision outcome
Safety & Conduct
• Violent/disruptive behavior not related to a disability will result in removal (police
if needed)
• No smoking, eating, drinking, or tobacco use onboard
• Paratransit is not an ambulance – call 911 for emergencies
• Drivers do not administer medications
• Drivers do not load, unload, or carry packages for riders.
• Paratransit vehicle lifts will accommodate wheelchairs that meet the ADA
specifications as well as the manufacturer's maximum weight capacity.
Feedback & Complaints
• For complaints or suggestions, contact the Operations Manager
• Complaint forms available in accessible formats
• ᔎᔏᔐ Call (309) 345-3686 or visit the office
Non‐Discrimination & Title VI Rights
The City of Galesburg complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, ensuring services are
offered without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, creed, or disability.
To file a civil rights complaint:
• ᠊᠋᠌᠍ Email: legal@ci.galesburg.il.us
• ௲௳௴ www.ci.galesburg.il.us
• ݟݠݡݢ 55 W. Tompkins Street, Galesburg, IL 61401