Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority/ Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE MCAG GOVERNING BOARD/ MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY/ TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

City of Los Banos Council Chambers 520 J Street Los Banos, CA (209) 723-3153

THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2015 – 3:00 P.M.

1. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

2. ROLL CALL

MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC MAY ADDRESS ANY ITEM ON THE AGENDA DURING CONSIDERATION OF THAT ITEM.

3. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS

PERSONS WISHING TO ADDRESS AGENDA ITEMS OR COMMENT ON ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA MAY DO SO AT THIS TIME. COMMENTS ARE LIMITED TO THREE MINUTES PER PERSON. PLEASE STATE YOUR NAME AND CITY OR COMMUNITY OF RESIDENCE FOR THE RECORD. FOR ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA, NO ACTION WILL BE TAKEN AT THIS TIME. IF IT REQUIRES ACTION, IT WILL BE REFERRED TO STAFF AND/OR PLACED ON THE NEXT AGENDA.

COPIES OF STAFF REPORTS OR OTHER WRITTEN DOCUMENTATION RELATING TO ITEMS OF BUSINESS REFERRED TO ON THE AGENDA ARE ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF MERCED COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS. PERSONS WITH QUESTIONS CONCERNING AGENDA ITEMS MAY CALL MCAG TO MAKE INQUIRY REGARDING THE NATURE OF THE ITEM DESCRIBED ON THE AGENDA.

ITEM STAFF

4. Oral Report – Citizens Advisory Committee Mike Mikesell

The Citizens Advisory Committee is part of the Merced County Association of Governments. Its mission is to be the eyes, ears and voice of the Citizens of Merced County and to make recommendations to the Governing Board concerning all areas of transportation.

MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

5. Caltrans Report Ken Baxter

* 6. Consent Agenda

a. Minutes of the February 19, 2015 MCAG Governing Board meeting # b. Merced County Association of Governments Budget Amendments Fiscal Year 2014/15

7. Information/Discussion Only

a. Minutes of the March 11, 2015 Technical Review Board meeting b. 2015 One Voice Program # c. California Road Usage Charge and Fee # d. Review of the Annual Unmet Transit Needs Process FY 2015/16 and Responsibilities of the Social Services Transportation Advisory Council # e. MCAG Financial Report for July 2014 – January 2015 # f. Commute Connection Monthly Report – January 2015 # g. City-County Relations Dinner - Flyer

* # 8. Regional Transportation Plan / Alternative Planning Matt Fell Strategy Steering Committee Appointments

Appoint 13 members to the Regional Transportation Plan / Alternative Planning Strategy Steering Committee.

MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

* 9. Minutes of the February 19, 2015 Regional Waste Management Authority Board meeting

# 10. Oral Report – Monthly Update Brooks Stayer

For information only.

11. Tire Amnesty Grant Brooks Stayer

For information only.

# 12. Proposed Fiscal Year 2015/16 Operating Budget Brooks Stayer

For information only.

* # 13. Resolution for the Reissuance of the Regional Waste Marjie Kirn Bond

Approve Resolution No. 2015/03-19-01 authorizing the issuance of Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority 2015 Solid Waste Refunding Revenue Bonds, approving an indenture of trust, an escrow agreement and a bond purchase agreement, authorizing and directing the execution thereof and authorizing actions related thereto.

TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

* 14. Consent Agenda

a. Minutes of the February 19, 2015 Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County meeting # b. 2015 Paratransit Plan c. Free Fare for the Fair # d. Approval of the Fiscal Year 14/15 California Office of Emergency Services Resolution for Purchasing Solar Powered Changeable Message Signs for Bus Stops

15. Oral Report – Transit Monthly Update Rich Green

16. Draft Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced Rich Green County Budget Fiscal Year 15/16

For discussion only.

17. Options for Reallocation of the Fiscal Year 14/15 Rich Green Public Transportation Modernization, Improvement, and Service Enhancement Funds

For discussion only.

# 18. Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County Christina Smith Financial Report for July 2014 – January 2015

For information only.

* 19. Changing the MCAG Board Meeting Time Marjie Kirn

For discussion and possible action.

20. Executive Director’s Report

21. Directors’ Report

* Action # Attachment + Enclosure

The next MCAG Governing Board meeting will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2015 at 3:00 p.m., at the County of Merced, 2222 M Street, Merced, CA

I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing agenda was posted at the Merced County Association of Governments not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting.

______Robin Lamas, Administrative Assistant II Dated this March 12, 2015

ITEM 4

CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE Meeting Highlights

March 6, 2015

CAC Representative to Governing Board items:

The committee recommended approval of all MCAG Governing Board action items presented.

Action items:

• Minutes of the January 9, 2015 Citizens Advisory Committee meeting • Minutes of the February 6, 2015 Citizens Advisory Committee meeting • 2015 paratransit Plan

Information items:

• 2015 One Voice Program • Options for Reallocation of the FY 14/15 Public Transportation Modernization, Improvement, and Service Enhancement Funds • Draft Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County Budget FY 15/16 • California Road Usage Charge and Fee • Review of the Annual Unmet Transit Needs Process FY 2015/16 and Responsibilities of the Social Services Transportation Advisory Council • Commute Connection Monthly Report – January, 2015

Announcements:

Matt Fell invited the committee to apply for the Alternative Planning Strategy Steering Committee.

ITEM 6a

MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

February 19, 2015

MINUTES

The regular meeting of the MERCED COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS GOVERNING BOARD held on Thursday, February 19, 2015, at the County of Merced, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 2222 M Street, Merced, CA was called to order by Chair Thurston at 3:00 P.M.

DIRECTORS PRESENT Rodrigo Espinoza Tom Faria for Mike Villalta Deidre Kelsey Daron McDaniel Jerry O’Banion Joe Oliveira John Pedrozo Jim Price Stan Thurston Hub Walsh

DIRECTORS ABSENT Jerry Antonetti

GUESTS AND MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC Ken Baxter, Caltrans District 10 David Garcia, County of Merced Robert M. Haight, Attorney Bud Levine, Wulff Hansen & Company Mark Pressman, Wulff Hansen & Company Stephen Qualls, League of California Cities

STAFF PRESENT Stacie Dabbs, Public Information Officer Matt Fell, Transportation Manager Nadia Gonzalez, Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority Rich Green, Transit Manager Robert Haden, Legal Counsel Marjie Kirn, Executive Director Robin Lamas, Administrative Assistant II Christina Smith, Chief Financial Officer Brooks Stayer, Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority

3. Oral Communications

David Garcia, County of Merced, had questions regarding the getting rid of old buses and replacing them with new buses. David also had questions regarding CNG busses and why we were replacing them with non CNG buses.

4. Caltrans Report

Ken Baxter gave the report from Caltrans.

5. Consent Agenda

a. Minutes of the January 15, 2015 MCAG Governing Board meeting b. Social Services Transportation Advisory Council Appointments c. Annual Review of Investment Policy d. Merced County Association of Governments Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Liaison Officer Revision and MCAG Federal Transit Administration Triennial Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Goal Setting Methodology for FFY 2015-FFY 2017 e. Federal Transit Administration 5310 Program – Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

Item 5 c. was removed from the Consent Agenda for discussion.

Director O’Banion moved to approve Consent Agenda Items a, b, d, and e. Seconded by Director McDaniel. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

Director Walsh moved to approve Consent Agenda Item c. Seconded by Director Pedrozo. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

6 Information/Discussion Only

a. Minutes of the February 11, 2015 Technical Review Board meeting b. 2015 Valley Voice - Sacramento c. Regional Transportation Impact Fee Report Fiscal Year 2014/15 2nd Quarter d. MCAG FY 2014/2015 2nd Quarter Report, October 2014 – December 2014 e. Rideshare Week 2014 Results f. Commute Connection Monthly Report – November 2014 g. 2015 CALCOG Regional Leadership forum

So noted.

7. Regional Housing Needs Allocation Methodology

Director Kelsey moved to adopt the Regional Housing Needs Allocation Methodology and provide the resulting draft allocations to the local jurisdictions. Seconded by Director Price. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

8. Federal “Tiger” Grants for 2015

Matt Fell gave a review of the application process for Tiger Grants for 2015. Matt stated that our application from last year for the Campus Parkway project was denied; however since that time staff has received information on how to improve the application for the Campus Parkway project which could improve our chances of being awarded a TIGER Grant.

Director Pedrozo moved to direct staff to submit a TIGER Grant application for the Campus Parkway project. Seconded by Director Espinoza. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

9. Draft Overall Work Program and Budget

So noted.

10. 2015 One Voice Program

Stacie Dabbs gave a review of the 2015 One Voice Program and the new strategy that is being proposed to take to Washington D.C.

Director O’Banion moved to approve the 2015 One Voice program development strategy. Seconded by Director Faria. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

11. Appoint Selection Committee Member for the 2015 Anna Maria Fuentes Scholarship

Director Pedrozo moved to appoint Director McDaniel as the Board Member to serve on the 2015 Anna Maria Fuentes selection committee. Seconded by Director O’Banion. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS OF THE MCAG GOVERNING BOARD, THAT PORTION OF THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED AT 3:46 P.M.

/ s / Robin Lamas Administrative Assistant II ITEM 6b

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

FROM: CHRISTINA SMITH, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

RE: MERCED COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS BUDGET AMENDMENTS FISCAL YEAR 2014/15

DISCUSSION

Attached for your review and approval are the amendments in budgeted revenues by program or element number. We are requesting to increasing revenues and expenditures by $3,000 each for use of the Earmark revenues for State Route 165, (SR165) from the Transportation Expenditure Authorization (TEA) funds. The attached Amended FY 2014/15 Overall Budget & Work Program Summary reflects the following changes:

100 – Citizen Participation and Coordination: Decrease FHWA PL funds and replace with PPM/RIP Funding by $75,000 to use PPM/RIP funds that expire in June 2015.

112 – Performance Measure & Monitoring: Decrease FHWA PL funds and replace with PPM/RIP Funding by $50,000 to use PPM/RIP funds that expire in June 2015.

121 – Alternative Modes Planning: Decrease FHWA PL funds and replace with PPM/RIP Funding by $50,000 to use PPM/RIP funds that expire in June 2015.

130 – SJ VALLEY TRANS. COORD: Decrease FHWA PL funds and replace with PPM/RIP Funding by $1,669 to use PPM/RIP funds that expire in June 2015.

250 – State Route 165- TEA: Increase revenue by $3,000 to cover estimated salary and fringe expenditures for work on this project.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Christina Smith at 723.3153 x 304 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

Approve the Fiscal Year 2014/2015 Budget/OWP amendments.

Attachment: Amended FY 2014/2015 Overall Budget & Work Program MERCED COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS AMENDED FY 2014/2015 OVERALL BUDGET & WORK PROGRAM FUNDING AND WORK HOUR SUMMARY

Work Element FHWA FHWA FTA TDA LTF SAFE* RIP/PPM* RTIF TEA CMAQ MCAG Total Staff PL PL * Sec. 5303 Admin Planning TI OTHER Credits Months (Includes (Includes Match TRANSPORTATION PLANNING Total Carry-Over) Carry-Over) SR165 100 Citizen Part. & Coord. $ 363,466 $213,277 $35,189 $75,000 $40,000 $28,499 19.00 110 RTP $ 79,936 70,767 $9,169 $0 3.00 111 Sustainable Comm. Strategy Imple. $ 27,011 $27,011 $3,098 1.50 112 Performance Measure & Monitoring $ 132,960 $82,960 $50,000 $9,516 2.00 121 Alternative Modes Planning $ 100,153 $50,153 $50,000 $5,753 3.00 122 Air Quality Planning $ 21,976 $14,130 $7,846 $2,521 1.25 130 SJ Valley Trans Coord. $ 110,582 $73,913 $35,000 $1,669 $12,492 3.25 150 FTIP $ 95,426 $17,124 $69,321 $8,981 $1,964 6.00 151 RTIP $ 84,379 $74,700 $9,678 3.50 170 Traffic Modeling $ 74,128 $65,626 $8,503 1.00 180 Geographic Information System $ 97,711 $97,711 $11,207 5.50 210 Regional Trans Impact Fee (RTIF) $ 7,800 $7,800 0.45 220 LTA/TEP $ 132,200 $132,200 1.50 230 Trans. Demand Mgnt (TDM)-Rideshare $ 75,000 $75,000 0.00 240 TDA Administration $ 62,100 $62,100 0.50 250 TEA-TI-SR165 $3,000 $3,000 Subtotal Transportation $ 1,467,828 $ 576,279 $ 280,414 $ 78,035 $ 62,100 $ 132,200 $ - $ 213,000 $ 7,800 $ 3,000 $ 75,000 $ 40,000 $ 75,050 51.45 OTHER PROGRAMS 510 Grant Development $ 55,444 $55,444 - 11.00 524 Continum of Care Plan Update $ 75,000 $75,000 - 0.00 550 One Voice Legislative Program $ 57,428 $57,428 - 1.50 600 YARTS $ 254,056 $254,056 - 14.60 700 Transit Joint Powers Authority $ 1,041,052 $1,041,052 - 78.30 740 MDSS, Inc. $ 1,809 $1,809 - 0.15 1950 City of Livingston Planning Services $ - $0 - 0.00 760 Regional Waste Management Authority $ 173,826 $173,826 - 8.30 770 LandFill Staffing $ 1,816,853 $1,816,853 - 239.00 800 SAFE $ 4,044 $4,044 - - 0.30 810 Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) $ 6,739 $6,739 - 0.50 900 Indirect $ - 82.90 Subtotal Comprehensive Planning $ 3,486,250 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 4,044 $ - $ - $ - $ - $ 3,482,206 $ - 436.55

TOTAL MCAG PROGRAMS 4,954,077 576,279 280,414 78,035 62,100 132,200 4,044 213,000 7,800 3,000 75,000 3,522,206 75,050 488.00

ITEM 7a

TECHNICAL REVIEW BOARD MEETING

March 11, 2015

MINUTES

The regular meeting of the Technical Review Board, held at the City of Gustine, 352 Fifth Street, Gustine, CA was called to order at 12:14 P.M.

MEMBERS PRESENT John Bramble, City of Merced Jim Brown, Merced County Stacy Elms for Steve Carrigan, City of Los Banos Scott McBride for Frank Pietro, City of Atwater Odi Ortiz, City of Livingston Sean Scully, City of Gustine

MEMBERS ABSENT Darrell Fonseca, City of Dos Palos

OTHERS PRESENT Stacie Dabbs, MCAG staff Matt Fell, MCAG staff Nadia Gonzalez, Regional Waste Management Authority Rich Green, MCAG staff Marjie Kirn, MCAG staff Stephen Qualls, California League of Cities Christina Smith, MCAG staff Brooks Stayer, Regional Waste Management Authority

1. Introductions

So noted.

2. Oral Communication

None.

3. Minutes of the February 11, 2015 Technical Review Board meeting

Scott McBride moved to approve the minutes of the February 11, 2015 Technical Review Board meeting. Seconded by Steve Carrigan. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY BOARD

4. Information/Discussion Only

a. Minutes of the February 19, 2015 Regional Waste Management Authority Board meeting b. Tire Amnesty Grant

So noted.

5. Oral Report – Monthly Update

So noted.

6. Proposed Fiscal Year 2015/16 Operating Budget

So noted.

7. Landfill Gas Feasibility Study

After discussion, the Technical Review Board recommended continuing this item until the next meeting.

TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

8. Minutes of the February 19, 2015 Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County meeting

So noted.

9. Oral Report – Transit Monthly Update

So noted.

10. 2015 Paratransit Plan

Scott McBride moved to recommend the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County approve the 2015 Paratransit Plan. Seconded by Sean Scully. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

11. Options for Reallocation of the FY 14/15 Public Transportation Modernization, Improvement, and Service Enhancement Funds

So noted.

12. Draft Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County Budget FY 15/16

So noted.

13. Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County Financial Report for July 2014 – January 2015

So noted. MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

14. Caltrans Report

No report was available from Caltrans.

15. Information/Discussion Only

a. Minutes of the February 19, 2015 MCAG Governing Board meeting b. 2015 One Voice Program c. California Road Usage Charge and Fee d. Review of the Annual Unmet Transit Needs Process FY 2015/16 and Responsibilities of the Social Services Transportation Advisory Council e. Commute Connection Monthly Report – January 2015 So noted.

16. MCAG Financial Report for July 2014 – January 2015

So noted.

17. Oral Report – League of California Cities Update

So noted.

18. Oral Report - Jurisdictions

So noted.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS, THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED AT 1:27 P.M.

ITEM 7b

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

FROM: STACIE DABBS, PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

RE: 2015 ONE VOICE PROGRAM

At the February Board meeting, the MCAG Governing Board approved the following strategy to develop the 2015 One Voice program: • Develop an itinerary with key agencies and legislators around the following “buckets:” Economic Development, Transportation/Goods movement, Water/Drought Relief and Sustainable Communities. • Create fact sheets for each bucket, providing an overview of current efforts county wide, areas for growth/opportunity, and identify the role of the federal government in helping us address the remaining need(s) in the region. • Use local projects (listed above and discussed in further detail in the related attachment) to highlight specific federal programs under each bucket. This provides the opportunity to discuss the local projects that need funding in relation to the agency and programs that provide the resources. • Prepare “Success Stories” for federal programs that member jurisdictions have benefited from (ex: COPS grants and Transportation Alternative Program projects). This will demonstrate the effectiveness of these programs while stressing the importance of continuing to fund them. • Emphasize water as the region’s number one priority and articulate how it is fundamental to all aspects of life in Merced County. This is the proposed overarching priority for the program for the Governing Board’s consideration. In addition to the overall big picture message about the importance of water to the region’s economy and way of life, specific discussions on drought relief resources, dry well replacement programs and additional storage capacity will be more detailed in meetings with appropriate audiences.

Below is the current list of issues and projects to be incorporated into the program materials:

Downtown Revitalization Project City of Gustine Airport Industrial Park Connectivity/Fiber Optic City of Merced Castle Utility Mapping & Infrastructure Improvements Merced County Business Incubator Project Merced County Community Access Preservation Act City of Merced Dos Palos Water Plant Merced County Bear Creek Bike Path Merced County Campus Parkway – Phase 2 Merced County/City of Merced Atwater-Merced Expressway – Phase 1B Merced County Highway 152 Bypass MCAG Highway 165 Bypass - Fund Reprograming Merced County Drought Relief Merced County Dry Well Replacement Program Merced County Lake McClure Storage Enhancement Merced Irrigation District Merced Streams Project Merced County Transitional Housing for Homeless Technical Review Board Congressman Denham legislation re: NEPA/CEQA Governing Board

KEY DATES/DEADLINES

Deadline to confirm participation March 2, 2015 Governing Board reviews progress, provides input March 19, 2015 One Voice Planning Meeting March 26, 2015 • 9am-11am, MCAG • Review itinerary, identify speakers

Deadline to secure block room rate April 5, 2015 Governing Board reviews progress, provides input April 16, 2015 One Voice Planning Meeting April 30, 2015 • 9am-11am, MCAG • Practice Run with Rep Costa staff • Review the Highway Trust Fund issue Pre-Trip Briefing May 12, 2015 • 9am-11am, MCAG

2015 One Voice Trip, WDC May 18-21, 2015 Debrief Meeting June 3, 2015 • 9am-11am, MCAG

BACKGROUND

One Voice is a legislative advocacy program for the Merced County region that promotes issues of regional significance to federal legislators and agencies through an annual advocacy trip to Washington, D.C. The purpose of the program is to advocate for increased funding and/or new or amended legislation. The 2015 One Voice trip is scheduled for May 18-21, 2015.

If you have any questions regarding the One Voice Program please contact Stacie Dabbs at 209.723.3153 x 308 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

ITEM 7c

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

FROM: TY PHIMMASONE, PLANNER

RE: CALIFORNIA ROAD USAGE CHARGE AND FEE

OVERVIEW

Transportation infrastructure is a major facet of quality of life and is an essential component of economic growth. It provides for the effective, efficient, and safe movement of people and goods.

With increased usage (due to larger populations and higher vehicle miles travelled, VMT’s), aging/deterioration, higher cost of repair, and non-adjusted levels of funding, transportation infrastructure is faced with a backlog of needs.

• Roads and bridges are in need of repair and reconstruction. The 2014 California Statewide Local Streets and Roads Needs Assessment Report indicated annual funding shortfalls of $6 billion for local streets and roads, and $1 billion for local bridges;

• The state gas taxes have not changed since 1994. Also, as vehicles are becoming more fuel efficient or don’t use gas at all (electric), less gas tax will be collected to support transportation infrastructure investments. This non-adjustment for inflation and rising cost of repair/construction, coupled with the more fuel-efficient vehicles, have caused the system to fall behind on system maintenance, upgrade, and expansion;

• The economy (keeping logistical expenses down in order to be globally competitive) is hindered by congestion at the ports and on the roads. As goods movement is expected to grow, congestion will exacerbate.

STATE TRANSPORTATION FUNDING CONCEPTS

The following are transportation funding concepts that are being explored:

• Road Usage Charge (RUC): The RUC Pilot Program legislation was enacted in September 2014. This law called for the implementation of the RUC Pilot Program by January 1, 2017. The RUC is a per vehicle mile travelled (VMT) charge, rather than the collection of the state’s gas tax. As a long term solution, the RUC would have hybrid and electric vehicles, which contribute less and nothing to gas tax revenue, pay their “fair share” for roadway usage. California is a member of the Western Road Usage Charge Consortium, which is a “multi- state” research collective of state DOTs examining road usage charge as a regional policy in the western United States.” Oregon has already performed a pilot project on 40 volunteer participants. The Oregon State Legislature has authorized a 5,000-volunteer road usage charge program, which will start in July 2015.

• Road Usage Fee: On February 4, 2015, California Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins (Democrat- San Diego) introduced a $10 billion, five-year funding proposal for transportation infrastructure investment. The $2 billion per year (starting in 2015/16) would come from: $1 billion by returning truck weight fees back to transportation; $200 million by accelerating repayment of transportation loans; $800 million from Road Usage Fee. This funding proposal came about to address the state’s backlog of infrastructure repairs and the declining state gas tax revenues from more fuel-efficient vehicles.

The Road Usage Fee could be tacked on to car insurance plans or vehicle registration fees, with the fees being higher for trucks and for electric vehicles. The funding would come from California drivers paying an extra $52 a year. The total collected is estimated to be about $1.8 billion. The $1 billion would backfill the general fund for the lost truck weight fees (to pay for general obligation debt).

Since this is short-term, the program could be readdressed after five years to take into account other possible funding mechanisms, such as the Road Usage Charge (charge per vehicle mile travelled, VMT).

To pass this new fee legislation would require a two-thirds vote by the State Legislature.

State Assembly: 80 members; 52 Democrats (65%); 28 Republicans (35%); 2/3rds vote (66.67%) requires unanimous Democratic Party approval and 2 GOP votes.

State Senate: 40 members; 25 Democrats (62.5%); 12 Republicans (30%); 3 vacancies; 2/3rds vote (66.67%) requires unanimous Democratic Party approval and 2 GOP votes.

Of note, other states have already started collecting annual registration fees on electric vehicles, with a few collecting also for hybrids.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Ty Phimmasone at 723.3153 x 309 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

Attachment: Road Usage Charge Fact Sheet ROAD USAGE CHARGE (RUC)

RUC OVERVIEW:

The state transportation revenue source for maintenance and operations comes from the gas excise tax of 36 cents for each gallon of gas sold. This base gas excise tax amount has remained unchanged (not adjusted for inflation) since 1994, despite the significant increases in construction costs. Per the 2001 Fuel Tax Swap, to maintain revenue neutrality, the price‐base excise tax gets adjusted annually by the Board of Equalization.

Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT) is expected to increase into the future. As fuel efficiencies continue to improve, even with the expected rise of VMT, the usage of gas will decrease. As vehicles get more fuel‐efficient and use less gas, lower gas revenues will be collected from these vehicles.

Source: California Transportation Infrastructure Priorities (CTIP) Workgroup Whitepaper

Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE): U.S. fuel economy standards for cars and light trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established fuel economy standards for model years 2017 to 2025.  40.3‐41.0 mpg by model year 2021;  48.7‐49.7 mpg by model year 2025.

The Road Usage Charge (RUC) is a sustainable‐funding (financially feasible) approach for newer, fuel‐efficient vehicles to pay for their “fair share.” Instead of charging a tax on gas usage, theC RU would be based on the per‐mile usage of the road network. The State would charge the vehicles for miles driven and refund the proportionate state gas excise tax per gallon. Also, legislation could adjust the RUC for inflation.

WESTERN ROAD USAGE CHARGE CONSORTIUM:

A number of western states are in various phases of establishing a road usage fee program. California is a member of the Western Road Usage Charge Consortium, “a multi‐state research collective of state DOTs examining road usage charge as a regional policy in the western United States.” Oregon ise th furthest along in this road usage fee establishment endeavor.

OREGON:

 Oregon State Legislature formed the Road User Fee Task Force (RUFTF) in 2001 to explore a different way to fund transportation. The RUFTF recommended further study of a system to charge drivers for miles driven. Since then, ODOT has completed two pilot projects to test the implementation of such a system.

 The most recent pilot project, as approved by the Oregon State Legislature in 2011, began in the Fall of 2012 and completed in March 2013. It involved 40 volunteer participants. Instead of the paying the state gas tax, participants would pay the fee amount of 1.56 cents per mile for miles driven. “This 1.56 cents was roughly equal to the amount of gas tax drivers would have paid for a vehicle with a fuel efficiency of 19 miles per gallon.” ODOT contracted with a private company, Sanef, to provide the reporting devices and to process the payments. Drivers could report miles using a Smartphone, GPS devices, simple non‐GPS reporting devices, or paying a flat rate. Participants would be credited the gas tax paid during the pilot program.

 In July 2013, the Oregon State Legislature authorized a 5,000‐volunteer road usage charge program, which would start in July 2015.

CALIFORNIA:

 The California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) established the California Transportation Infrastructure Priorities (CTIP) Workgroup in April 2013. The CTIP Workgroup prepared the Road Usage Charge Whitepaper in the Fall of 2014. This RUC Whitepaper provided background and recommendations on the establishment of a demonstration program to explore the feasibility of a road usage charge.

 Senate Bill 1077, Road Usage Charge Pilot Program, was signed into law on September 29, 2014. This law called for the creation of a 15‐member Technical Advisory Committee by the CTC in consultation with the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA). This TAC will make recommendations, regarding the implementation of the RUC Pilot Program, to the CalSTA. The CalSTA must then implement the RUC Pilot Program by January 1, 2017, and submit a report of its findings by June 30, 2018.

 State Budget Proposal includes $9.4 million for this Road Usage Charge Pilot Program.

MEMORANDUM ITEM 7d

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

FROM: NATALIA AUSTIN, ANALYST

RE: REVIEW OF THE ANNUAL UNMET TRANSIT NEEDS PROCESS FY 2015/16 AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SOCIAL SERVICES TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COUNCIL

BACKGROUND

As the administrator of the Transportation Development Act (TDA) funds for Merced County, Merced County Association of Governments (MCAG) is responsible for performing the annual “unmet transit needs” process. The purpose of this process is to ensure that all “unmet transit needs” that are “reasonable to meet” are met on transit service before any TDA funds are expended for non-transit uses, such as streets and roads.

The TDA specifically requires that MCAG administer and establish a Social Services Transportation Advisory Council (SSTAC). The Public Utilities Code (PUC) defines the required membership of the SSTAC.

The purpose of the SSTAC is to solicit public input regarding transit service needs for the transit- dependent and transit-disadvantaged persons, including the elderly, disabled and low-income persons.

Annually, the SSTAC makes a recommendation to the MCAG Governing Board which finds by resolution that:

• There are no unmet transit needs; or • There are unmet transit needs that are NOT reasonable to meet; or • There are unmet transit needs, including needs that are not reasonable to meet.

2015 PUBLIC HEARINGS

The SSTAC will hold six public hearings to gather public testimony:

City of Atwater – April 6, 2015 at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM City of Merced – April 9, 2015 at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM City of Los Banos – April 14, 2015 at 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM

RESPONSIBILITIES / GOALS

The goals of the Social Services Transportation Advisory Council are:

• Conduct the annual TDA unmet transit needs public process as required, including: identify any “unmet transit needs” that are “reasonable to meet” that may exist in Merced County; and make a recommendation to the MCAG Governing Board.

• Make an annual recommendation to the MCAG Governing Board, which finds by resolution that:

. There are NO unmet transit needs; or . There are unmet transit needs that are NOT reasonable to meet; or . There are unmet transit needs, including needs that are reasonable to meet.

• Offer input to the MCAG Governing Board on transit service issues, including the coordination of services to welfare recipients transitioning into the workforce.

• Review other possible sources or transit funding to meet the transportation needs of welfare recipients and low-income persons.

• Serve as the Performance Review Committee to evaluate the effectiveness, efficiency and overall productivity of Merced County Transit – The Bus services in relationship to its cost effectiveness, service levels and coordination with other transit services. (Discussion/Comment SSTAC needs to meet quarterly).

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Natalia Austin at 723.3153 x 319 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

Attachments: Definitions of the Terms – Unmet Transit Needs & Reasonable to Meet 2015 Unmet Transit Needs Hearings Schedule – TDA FY2015 - 16 Cycle Unmet Transit Needs 2015 – Public Hearings Flyer

DEFINITIONS OF THE TERMS UNMET TRANSIT NEEDS and REASONABLE TO MEET

UNMET TRANSIT NEEDS

An unmet transit need is an inadequacy in the public transit services, specialized transit/paratransit services and private transportation services for those persons recognized as transportation disadvantaged so as to provide themselves with the essentials necessary to maintain a minimum standard of living, as expressed through the public hearing process.

The transportation disadvantaged are those individuals who do not operate an automobile because of youth, advanced age or mental or physical impairment; and those persons who are not elderly or handicapped and who are unable to operate an automobile for reasons of low income.

The term unm et transit needs shall include transit or specialized transportation services identified in the Regional Transportation Plan, the Transit Service Plan, a finding of an unmet need by the MCAG Governing Board, or in the compliance plan for the Americans with Disabilities Act that have not been implemented or funded.

REASONABLE TO MEET

1. The new, expanded, or revised transit service, if implemented or funded, would allow the operator to meet farebox and revenue ratios as required under Public Utilities Code, Division 10, Part 11, Chapter 4, Article 4, Section 99268 and would not cause the operator to incur expenses in excess of the maximum allocation of Transportation Development Act (TDA) funds; and

2. The new, expanded, or revised transit service is needed by, and will benefit, either the general public, the transportation disadvantaged, or the elderly and disabled population as a whole and support exists through the public hearing process or other means of communication; and

3. The new, expanded, or revised transit service must be safe to operate, and there must be adequate roadways and turnouts for transit vehicles; and

4. The new, expanded, or revised transit service, in conforming with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, will not impose an undue financial burden on the transit operator if complementary paratransit services are subsequently required; and

5. The new, expanded, or revised transit service will not adversely affect the overall system's measure of efficiency and effectiveness, such as average passenger load per hour, average cost per passenger hour, passengers per mile, cost per mile, and cost per hour; and

6. Implementation of the new, expanded, or revised service will be considered reasonable if the projected average cost per ride, by ty pe of service can be provided at a cost no higher than 10% above the average existing cost per passenger by ty pe of service within Merced County for a period no longer than one operating year. 2015 SSTAC Schedule TDA Unmet Needs Process FY15/16

Committee / Board Meeting Purpose Date / Time Location

TDA Wednesday MCAG SSTAC Process April 1, 2015 369 W. 18th Street, Pre-Unmet Hearings Overview 12:00 PM Merced

Atwater City of Atwater Monday City Hall Public Hearing SSTAC April 6, 2015 Council Chambers Receive Public 3:00PM & 6:00 PM 750 Bellevue Road, Testimony Atwater

Merced City of Merced Thursday Civic Center Public Hearing SSTAC April 9, 2015 Council Chambers Receive Public 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM 678 W 18th Street , Testimony Merced

Los Banos Tuesday City of Los Banos Public Hearing Community Center SSTAC April 14, 2015 Receive Public 645 7th Street, 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM Testimony Los Banos

1. Staff to present evaluation of Public Tuesday SSTAC Testimony based on Governing Board April 21, 2015 MCAG Post Hearing adopted definitions of 12:00 PM 369 W. 18th Street, Evaluation & and Unmet Needs and Reasonable to Meet Merced Recommendation (Tuesday April 28, 2015 12:00 PM 2. SSTAC to make recommendation to if additional meeting time is needed) the GB

MCAG Thursday, June 18, 2015 Unmet Transit Needs June - County of Merced Governing Board or Thursday, July 20, 2015 Determination July - City of Atwater Meeting 3 pm Do you or someone you know have a transit need that is not being met? Merced County Association of Government’s (MCAG ) Social Services Transportation Advisory Council would like to hear from you!

If you would like to provide comments on public transit needs in Merced County, please attend one of 6 public hearings closest to your residence.

Bus service is available to and from these meetings at no charge! Call 209.384.3111 for a ride!

HEARING DATES AND LOCATIONS:

MONDAY, APRIL 6 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM Atwater Council Chambers 750 Bellevue Road, Atwater, CA

THURSDAY, APRIL 9 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM Merced Council Chambers 678 W 18 th Street, Merced, CA

TUESDAY, APRIL 14 If you are unable to attend a hearing, but 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM would like to provide your comments, Los Banos Community Center please contact: Natalia Austin at 645 7 th Street, Los Banos, CA 209.723.3153 ext. 319 or email [email protected] by April 15 th . What is the purpose of the unmet transit needs hearings? The purpose of the unmet transit needs process is to ensure that all “unmet transit needs” that are “reasonable to meet” are met on transit service in Merced County before any Transportation Development Act funds are expended for non-transit uses, such as streets and roads. What is the purpose of the Social Services Transportation Advisory Council (SSTAC)? The purpose of the SSTAC is to solicit public comment regarding transit service needs for the transit-dependent and transit-disadvantaged persons What is an “unmet transit need”? An “unmet transit need” is an inadequacy in the public transit services, specialized transit/paratransit services and private transportation services for those persons recognized as transportation disadvantaged . Who are “transportation disadvantaged”? The “transportation disadvantaged” are those individuals who do not operate an automobile because of youth, advanced age or mental or physical impairment; and those persons who are unable to operate an automobile for reasons of low income.

The new, expanded or revised service needs to be cost effective, efficient, safe, and benefit either the general public or the transportation disadvantaged.

Introduce yourself to the Council

You have 3 minutes to speak

Give as much detail as possible within 3 minutes to clearly describe the need you would like to have met

Stay after the hearing is adjourned to have questions regarding operational transit issues answered

ITEM 7e

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

FROM: CHRISTINA SMITH, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

RE: MCAG FINANCIAL REPORT FOR JULY 2014 – JANUARY 2015

DISCUSSION

Attached for your review is the Profit and Loss Budget vs. Actual report for the period July 2014 through January 2015. Also attached is the Pooled Investment Summary Report for the period ending January 31, 2015.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Christina Smith at 723.3153 x 301 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

Attachments: Profit and Loss Budget vs. Actual report for the period July 2014 through January 2015. Pooled Investment Summary Report for the period ending January 31, 2015.

MERCED COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS Profit & Loss Budget vs. Actual July through January 2015 Unaudited Variance Budget Remaining Remaining July -Jan 15 July -June 15 Balance Budget % Income Other Revenue 818 (818) 0.0% LTF Planning 62,100 62,100 100.0% AME RIP 1,979,959 - (1,979,959) 0.0% FHA-Metro Plan (PL) 159,495 1,033,361 873,866 84.57% SB45 / RIP 9,326 36,331 27,005 74.33% SAFE 470 4,044 3,574 88.37% TDA Admin 132,200 132,200 100.0% RTIF 1,882 7,800 5,918 75.87% TEA III 901 (901) 0.0% CMAQ 3,601 75,000 71,399 95.2% Fed Transit Adm-Sec 5303 67,082 78,035 10,953 14.04% Contributions 132,200 132,200 0 0.0% RWMA 1,191,355 1,990,679 799,324 40.15% TJPA 447,575 1,041,052 593,476 57.01% Local Contracts 44,489 95,672 95,672 100.0% MDSS 1,600 1,809 209 11.58% YARTS 109,971 329,056 219,085 66.58% AVA 567 6,739 6,172 91.59% Total Income 4,151,290 5,026,077 919,276 18.29% Gross Profit 4,151,290 5,026,077 874,787 17.4% Expense Salary & Benefits 2,201,979 3,917,386 1,715,407 43.79% Communications 2,769 10,000 7,232 72.32% Household Expense-Janit 4,696 9,000 4,305 47.83% Insurance Other 61,427 58,000 -3,427 -5.91% Maint Equip 6,000 6,000 100.0% Maint. & Fuel Equip.Auto 265 250 -15 -5.9% Maint Structure 1,673 2,000 327 16.34% Membership 10,418 13,200 2,782 21.07% Office Expense/General 13,059 30,200 17,141 56.76% Professional Services 126,466 725,962 599,496 82.58% Professional Services-AME 1,998,797 -1,998,797 #DIV/0! Professional Serv.Audit 28,902 48,000 19,098 39.79% Rents & Leases-Equip. 10,168 34,000 23,832 70.09% Special Dept Expense 20,279 23,000 2,721 11.83% Trans. and Travel 8,983 52,100 43,117 82.76% Utilities 2,778 3,600 822 22.83% Fixed Asset 50,000 50,000 100.0% Contingency 5,049 43,378 38,329 88.36% Total Expense 4,497,708 5,026,077 528,369 10.51% Unearned Gain

Net Ordinary Income (Loss) (346,418) -0 346,417

Page 1 of 1 MERCED COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERMENTS Pooled Bank and Investment Balances January 31, 2015

% Rate of % Rate of Account Balance Return QTD Return YTD Wells Fargo Bank - General Checking $ 1,734,115 0.200 0.200 Wells Fargo Bank -YARTS 488,881 0.200 0.200 Wells Fargo Bank -TJPA 79,464 0.200 0.200 Wells Fargo Bank-Saving Account 2,508,165 0.250 0.250 LAIF Investment 1,506,525 0.267 0.267 County of Merced Investment 19,749,417 0.620 0.620 Total Bank and Investment Balances $ 26,066,567

POOLED INVESTMENTS

624,640 (197,760) MCAG - General Fund RTIF 3,829,208 SAFE 1,809,329 LTF 8,726,250 STAF 2,197,662 SEF AVA YARTS - General 3,311,945 367,984 4,367,215 YARTS - PTMISEA 106,068 - Transit - General 9,299 Transit - PTMISEA 914,727 Transit - LTF Transit - Cal-EMA MERCED COUNTY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERMENTS Pooled Bank and Investment Balances January 31, 2015 Cash and Investments by Fund Total Wells Fargo-Ckg Wells Fargo-Svg LAIF County MCAG - General Fund (197,760) (266,425.49) 68,665.50 RTIF 3,829,208 1,598,257.55 2,230,950.50 SAFE 1,809,329 392,983.88 1,416,345.05 LTF 2,197,662 - 2,197,662.07 STAF 367,984 - 367,983.79 SEF 106,068 - 106,068.39 AVA 9,299 9,298.78 - YARTS - General 914,727 488,881.30 425,845.86 YARTS - PTMISEA - - - Transit - General 3,311,945 (532,971.23) 1,001,397 2,843,518.76 Transit - PTMISEA 4,367,215 612,435.49 1,506,768 566,063.82 1,681,947.36 Transit - LTF 8,726,250 - 940,460.72 7,785,789.32 Transit - Cal-EMA 624,640 - 624,640.48 Total Pooled Governmental Funds 26,066,567 2,302,460.28 2,508,165.02 1,506,524.54 19,749,417.08

MDSS - Robo Bank - Non-Profit 264,859 Total all Cash and Investments 26,331,426

THE MONTHLY REPORT

January, 2015 San Joaquin / Stanislaus / Merced

Commute Connection Selects New TDM System Vendor

Commute Connection is pleased to announce that RideAmigos Corp. has been selected as the vendor for the development of a new TDM System. In an effort to respond to changing desires, trends and new technolgoy, the system will integrate trip planning and ridematching and offer commuters a convenient, easy, fun and en- gaging system to find a suitable transportation option. The system will also provide a platform to provide public agencies, employers and community organizations important data to assist with planning efforts, sustaina- bility goals and event planning. Features will include:

 Mult-Modal Trip Planner  Mobile Option  Commuter Dashboard  Gamification/competitions/campaigns,  Survey Management  Event Planning & Ridesharing  GIS Cluster Mapping & Analysis  Foreign Language Support

RideAmigo’s clients include the Denver Region Council of Governments and the San Diego Association of Governments. Representative from Commute Connection, Stanislaus Council of Governments, Merced Coun- ty Association of Governments and San Joaquin Regional Transit were instrumental in the selection process. Pacific Coast The System is expectedParker toHannifin be implemented by fall of 2015. City of Merced Producers January Activities & Outreach

Rideshare Database Profile Total Registered Commuters Commuters Added Total Vanpools Vanpools Added San Joaquin 5,323 30 91 0

Stanislaus 2,161 16 30 1

Merced 352 4 7 0

 Completed DM System Vendor Selection Process  Extended consultant contract for Interregional TDM Action Plan  Bike to Work/ Week/Month Planning Tri-County  Updated Vanpool Commuter Database  Sent Commute Connection Newsletter  Coordinated implementation of MTC Rideshare Database Sharing MOU

 Continued work with SJRTD to implement NTD Vanpool Reporting  Met with Unified Grocers San Joaquin  Attended FRESH meeting through Green Team SJ  Met with City of Manteca  Met with PACTIV  Met with Fleenor Paper Company

 Met with the City of Waterford Stanislaus  Met with Foster Farms Dairy  Met with Stanislaus County  Met with City of Turlock  Dropped off materials at City of Ceres

Merced  Met with UC Merced and dropped of preferred parking signs  Held a conference call with Merced Bicycle Coalition and UC Merced

Commute Connection / 555 E. Weber Avenue / Stockton, CA / 800-52-SHARE / commuteconnection.com A Program of the San Joaquin Council of Governments, Stanislaus Council of Governments and Merced County Association of Governments

Merced County Association of Governments invites you to the CITY‐COUNTY RELATIONS DINNER

Tuesday, April 28, 2015

The Merced Multicultural Arts Center 5:30 PM Social 645 W. Main Street 6:00 PM Dinner Downtown Merced 6:30 PM Program

$35 per person Please make checks payable to: Merced County Association of Governments

RSVP Please RSVP to Joy Gort by April 17, 2015 (209)723‐3153 x 323 or [email protected]

ITEM 8

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

FROM: MATT FELL, TRANSPORTATION PLANNING MANAGER

RE: REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION PLAN / ALTERNATIVE PLANNING STRATEGY STEERING COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS

In November the MCAG Governing Board approved the creation of a Regional Transportation Plan / Alternative Planning Strategy (RTP/APS) Steering Committee to provide guidance on the process of developing the APS and the next RTP, and directed that applications for the Committee be brought back to the Board for approval.

Staff invited advocacy groups, local government agencies, community sectors, and transportation and planning stakeholders to submit applications. Fifteen applications were received and are attached (with personal information removed), they are:

• Marisol Aguilar, California Rural Legal Assistance • Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability • Jean Okuye, Valley Land Alliance • Daniel O’Connell, American Farmland Trust • Kenra Bragonier, League of Women Voters • Lisa Keyser-Grant, Merced Bicycle Coalition • Rod Webster, Merced Sierra Club • Gary Lasky, Sierra Club Tehipite Chapter • Craig Breon, Sierra Club Tehipite Chapter • Isai Palma, Building Healthy Communities • Mary-Michal Rawling, Golden Valley Health Centers • Stephanie Nathan, Merced County Department of Public Health • Adam Cox, Construction/Builders Exchange, and Citizens Advisory Committee member • Daniel Caris, Small Business, and Citizens Advisory Committee member • Pamela Toconis, At Large, and Citizens Advisory Committee member

Staff proposes that all applicants be appointed to the committee, with each organization represented having one seat, and other persons representing the same organization being alternates. In other words the three Sierra Club applicants would share one appointment. All interested persons are invited to attend all meetings but each appointed organization would have one vote. Staff also proposes that appointed members or organizations be allowed to designate their own alternates.

If the committee is created, we will begin work immediately. We will send out notices to members along with an agenda for their first meeting. Staff proposes having monthly meetings of the Committee from April through August with the goal of adopting an APS by September. The first meeting will be held April 3, 2015 at 10 a.m. at MCAG.

Topics for the first meeting include:

• an overview of what the APS is and the requirements of state law • committee ground rules • process and schedule • public outreach strategy

ABOUT THE ALTERNATIVE PLANNING STRATEGY

The Regional Transportation Plan adopted in September includes a Sustainable Communities Strategy (SCS) as required by state law. Since the SCS does not meet the greenhouse gas reduction target for 2035 set by the state, MCAG must prepare an Alternative Planning Strategy which does. We have considerable discretion over when and how to prepare the APS; there are no specific deadlines mentioned in law.

The 2035 target for Merced County is a 10% reduction; the adopted RTP shows a 6% reduction.

An Alternative Planning Strategy is primarily a document that shows how the greenhouse gas emission reduction target can be met by alternative development patterns, alternative transportation infrastructure, and/or additional transportation measures and policies.

Therefore the APS relies heavily on the baseline provided by the RTP. Development of an APS could potentially be a relatively modest change to some aspects of the RTP, or it could require substantial changes. The APS is not required to be feasible, if the target cannot be met with feasible options. However the APS must explain how the land use pattern and transportation projects and programs in it are “practicable choices”.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Matt Fell at 723.3153 x 320 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

Appoint 13 members to the Regional Transportation Plan / Alternative Planning Strategy Steering Committee.

Attachment: Applications

ITEM 9

MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

February 19, 2015

MINUTES

The regular meeting of the MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY held on Thursday, February 19, 2015, at the County of Merced, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 2222 M Street, Merced, CA was called to order by Chair Thurston at 4:10 P.M.

DIRECTORS PRESENT Rodrigo Espinoza Tom Faria for Mike Villalta Deidre Kelsey Daron McDaniel Jerry O’Banion Joe Oliveira John Pedrozo Jim Price Stan Thurston Hub Walsh

DIRECTORS ABSENT Jerry Antonetti

16. Consent Agenda

a. Minutes of the January 15, 2015 Regional Waste Management Authority Board meeting b. Roll Off Truck Purchase

Director Kelsey moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Seconded by Director O’Banion. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

17. Oral Report – Monthly Update

So noted.

18. Refunding of the Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority 2007 Solid Waste Revenue Bonds and Retaining Associated Financing Team Professionals

Director Kelsey moved to approve Resolution No. 2015/02-19-02 authorizing commencement of proceedings in connection with issuance of Refunding Bonds and to appoint a Municipal Advisory, Bond Counsel and Disclosure Counsel in connection therewith subject to legal counsels review and approval. Seconded by Director O’Banion. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

19. Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority Financial Reports

So noted.

20. Executive Director’s Report

So noted.

21. Directors’ Report

Director Walsh requested an update on the Transit Operation Maintenance and Fuel Request for Proposals at a future meeting.

Director Espinoza requested an agenda item regarding changing the Governing Board meeting starting time.

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS OF THE MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY, THAT PORTION OF THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF DIRECTOR JERRY ANTONETTIS’ FATHER, JERRY ANTONETTI AT 4:35 P.M.

/ s / Robin Lamas Administrative Assistant II

ITEM 10

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

FROM: BROOKS STAYER, DIRECTOR OF MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

RE: ORAL REPORT - MONTHLY UPDATE

SUMMARY

In order to keep the Technical Review Board (TRB) and Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority Board (MCRWMAB) informed, Director of Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority Brooks Stayer will provide a monthly update to Authority activities and revenue.

Tonnage Update Discussion

Director Stayer will discuss landfill tonnage revenue generated at the Highway 59 and Billy Wright Landfills for February 2015.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Brooks Stayer at 723.4481 x 21 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

Attachments: February Comparisons 2012-2015 Tonnage February Comparisons 2012-2015 Tonnage, without out-of-county contracts

Disposed Tons For Highway 59 and Billy Wright Landfills February Comparison: 2012 - 2015 27,000 *The increase in tonnage at the Highway 59 Landfill is 24,000 25,051 due to a new account Total Tons Both Landfills from Turlock and the retention of the 21,000 21,631 contract with Tuolumne County. 20,314 18,000 17,430 16,928 17,239 Highway 59 Landfill*

15,000 H59 Disposed 14,538 Tons

Tons 13,574 12,000 BWL Disposed 9,000 Tons

6,000 Total Billy Wright Landfill Disposed Tons

3,000 2,892 3,354 3,075 3,421 0 Feb '12 Feb '13 Feb '14 Feb '15 Disposed Tons For Highway 59 and Billy Wright Landfills February Comparison: 2012 - 2015 (without Feb. 2015 out-of-county tonnage) 21,000

*Tonnage at the 18,000 Highway 59 Landfill, if Total Tons* at Both Landfills 17,893 17,430 tonnage weren't 16,928 received from Turlock and Tuolumne County 15,000 15,631 in February 2015. 14,538 14,472 13,574 Highway 59 Landfill* 12,000 12,556 H59 Disposed

Tons Tons 9,000 BWL Disposed Tons 6,000 Total Billy Wright Landfill Disposed Tons 3,000 3,354 3,421 2,892 3,075

0 Feb '12 Feb '13 Feb '14 Feb '15

ITEM 11

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

FROM: JENNIFER HALPIN, STAFF SERVICES ANALYST

RE: TIRE AMNESTY GRANT

SUMMARY

The Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority (RWA) has applied for CalRecycle’s Tire Amnesty 3 (TA3) Grant. This grant will be for two years, from July 1, 2015 – June 30, 2017, and will cover costs associated with tires that are surrendered by the public to jurisdictions. Usually this takes place during community cleanup events hosted by the Cities of Atwater, Dos Palos, Los Banos, Merced and the County of Merced and also takes place during tire amnesty events hosted by the Cities of Livingston and Gustine.

For the last Tire Amnesty Grant, the RWA received $67,385 to cover all costs. For the TA3 grant, staff will be applying for a slightly larger amount to compensate for the increase in tire disposal/recycling costs.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Jennifer Halpin at 723.4481 x 24 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

ITEM 12

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

FROM: NADIA GONZALEZ, FINANCIAL SERVICES MANAGER

RE: PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2015/16 OPERATING BUDGET

BACKGROUND

Within the past two fiscal years, the Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority (Authority) has made significant strides improving its overall financial well-being. During the 13/14 fiscal year, a total of over 287,000 tons were disposed at both the Highway 59 and Billy Wright facilities, combined. On record, this is the second highest level of disposed tons reached in the past 15 years, the highest occurring during the peak of the housing boom. Also, the Authority successfully reduced its operating costs by 30% over the prior 12/13 fiscal year (excludes depreciation, amortization, and closure/post closure expense per GASB 18).

During the 2014/15 fiscal year, the Authority continues to build on the successes of the prior year. If the second half of the year’s activity mirrors the first, it is expected that the Authority will meet its operating budget goals. Nonetheless, for the upcoming 2015/16 fiscal year, various inter-related factors will determine whether operating revenues will sufficiently enable the funding of reserves crucial for upcoming cell replacement at both landfills, and for the replacement of aging, heavy equipment.

• Out of County Waste: Since the fall of 2013, the Authority has benefited from a temporary arrangement for significant, out of county waste. If a permanent agreement can be established, the Authority will be in a better position to fund critical capital projects and equipment.

• Valley Fill vs Phase 6B: The Highway 59 Valley Fill project is expected to yield twice the capacity of Phase 6B and cost less to construct. The draft Environmental Impact Report for the Valley Fill project is currently being reviewed by in-house staff. If the project can successfully be navigated through the CEQA process, and remain an economically viable alternative to Phase 6B, this will help minimize or postpone future rate increases that are yet to be proposed.

• Billy Wright Tonnage: The Billy Wright landfill is permitted to accept 1,500 tons per day of waste. However, only 10-15% of this amount is brought in on a daily basis. Although revenue covered operating expenses for the 13/14 fiscal year, it was not sufficient to fund its portion of the bond debt, to replace aging equipment or to construct replacement capacity (See Appendix A). As such, the Highway 59 landfill continues to subsidize the underutilized facility. At its current tonnage, rough estimates indicate tipping fees would need to surpass $60/ton for Billy Wright to be self-sustaining.

• 2007 Series Bond: The bond debt, along with the economic downturn has truly made it a challenge for the Authority to keep pace with debt obligation and still fund necessary reserves. The Bond’s most conservative 2007 financial projections (see Appendix B) indicated that for the 14/15 fiscal year, all, in-county tons (including green waste, recyclables, etc.) processed would reach 432,000 tons, with an average tipping fee of $42.96 (3.2% yearly growth in both tonnage and rate increases). Total operating revenue was expected to reach $18.8 million dollars, with $12.8 million in operating expenses. Future expansion and equipment needs would be financed through the issuance of two concurrent bonds (2010 and 2017) and additional lease-purchase agreements. In actuality, 25% of the current year’s 320,000 tons are imported only through discounted rates resulting in an average $32/ton.

The Authority is taking steps to reduce the yearly $2.6 million bond payment by proposing a refinancing. Consequently, there is a separate agenda item addressing this issue. It is estimated that this will result in yearly interest savings of $300,000 - $400,000 ($3,000,000 - $4,000,000 over the term).

BUDGET OVERVIEW

The attached MCRWMA 2015/16 Budget Overview includes both a Scenario A and a Scenario B. Revenue outcomes will primarily depend on whether we will continue to receive approximately 41,000 imported tons. If the mutually beneficial relationship continues, projected disposed tons will be 301,000, 4% more than the projected 289,000 for the 14/15 fiscal year. In contrast, the Scenario B projected tons are 260,000. Except for state solid waste fees, which are based on disposed tons, proposed salary and benefits, expenses, debt service payments, and asset purchases remain the same for both scenarios. The marked difference between both scenarios, other than revenue, is the additional $700,000 proposed transfers to the capital projects in Scenario A.

The capital projects and fleet budgets for the 2015/16 fiscal year will be presented to the Board on a future agenda item.

OPERATING BUDGET

Revenue

Scenario A scenario projects $10,995,900 in revenue, over $400,000 more in landfill tipping fees over the prior year. Scenario B projects $10,019,900, over $380,000 less than projected for 2014/15. The tipping fee difference between Scenario A and Scenario B scenarios is $795,400. Member agencies are projected to bring in only 112,000 tons of general refuse, at their respective rate. An additional 93,000 of general refuse tons are expected to come in at the gate rate of $43/ton. There are no planned rate increases for the 2015/16 fiscal year.

The Authority continues to experiment with ways to minimally process incoming green waste. Consequently, this budget also assumes no compost sales.

Expenditures

In both scenarios, proposed expenditures are the same, except for the state solid waste fees, as previously mentioned.

It is expected that at the start of the fiscal year, the Authority will only have six remaining employees under MCERA retirement. MCERA employer contributions will likely reach 50% of the employees’ salaries (4% higher than the budgeted amount for 2014/15), making the average cost per Authority employee $127,000 ($90,500 for MCAG landfill staff). Three less Authority employees over the prior year contributes to the 18.7% decrease in salaries and benefits.

The remaining 24 staff are MCAG employees and budgeted for in the MCAG staff costs budget line. As Authority employees retire from MCERA, they will be given the opportunity to be rehired as MCAG landfill employees. This was the case with two of the three Authority employees that retired during the 2014/15 fiscal year, accounting for 12% ($186,000) of the 27% increase in budget over the prior fiscal year. The remaining increase is due to a 3% cost of living allowance (at a cost of $50,000) and increases in both health insurance and workers compensation rates.

Laboratory testing services and publications and legal notices have been cut to reflect actual activity of the past fiscal years. Special department expense has been increased to allow for permitting fees that have continued to increase by thousands of dollars a year. The cost allocation agreement with the county expires at the end of June 2015; therefore no money is being budgeted for that line item. Transportation and travel has been increased by $5,000 to continue to allow for staff to avail themselves of additional professional development opportunities.

Operations has made significant progress in both reducing the amount of soil placed on garbage at the end of the day, as well as compacting, making wise use of every inch of available air space. This, coupled with the revised closure/post closure estimate of the Highway 59 landfill during the 2012/13 fiscal year, enables us to reduce projected closure/post closure expense by $100,000.

The Authority has only one remaining lease-purchase agreement, reducing our lease interest expense by 33%.

Liability Payments

This year’s budget segregates expenses from short and long term liabilities (page 3 of Line Items Appropriations). It is hopeful that the bond refinance program that will be presented to the Board will enable the Authority to reduce its yearly payment to the bond from $2.6 million to $2.2 million. Projected lease purchase payments for the grinder purchased in 2012 remain essentially the same.

Fixed Assets

This year’s budget requests approval for the purchases of a copy machine and office computers, as well as improvements in the scale house and the relocation of the server from the admin building to the scale house.

Reserve Fund Transfers

As was the case in the prior year, the Authority recommends cash transfers into the reserve funds of Capital Projects and Fleet Replacement. Scenario B proposes the similar minimum, $1,575,000; Scenario A proposes a total of $2,275,000, $700,000 more into the Capital Projects Fund. These transfers will only occur if there is sufficient, positive cash flow at the end of the 2015/16 fiscal year. If revenue goals are not met, the transfers, if any, will be adjusted.

2016/2020 Budget Projection and 2016/2036 Budget Projection

While there are many variables and unknowns at this point in time, the Authority would like to keep the Board abreast of what the financial future may hold. Attached, are the projected financial scenarios for the next 5 and 20 years.

It is without saying that until the Authority’s own in-house tonnage can reach levels seen during the peak of the housing boom, its financial well-being will continue to rest on out-of-county sources. The Authority will struggle to remain in the landfill business if sufficient funds are unavailable to not just cover operating expenses, but to fund future expansion and heavy equipment replacement as well. Even with the imported waste, the Authority likely faces future rate increases. The rates will be dependent on whether or not we will continue to receive the outside waste. The Authority has budgeted for an outside consultant to conduct a rate study, and expects to seek Board approval to release an RFP to acquire such services.

Because no permanent commitment exists for the imported, out-of-county waste, the Authority recommends a conservative approach to next year’s budget. Scenario B will be presented for board approval.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Nadia Gonzalez at 723-4481 x 19 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

Attachments: Projected FY 2015/16 Revenue 2015/16 Budget Overview Line Item Appropriations 2015/16 Operating Budget 2016/2020 Budget Projection 2016/2035 Budget Projection APPENDIX A: Cash Requirements BW vs Hwy 59 Landfills APPENDIX B: Table 6-3 Financial Projects – Base Case and Table 6-8 Summary of Operating Projections and Sensitivity Analysis

ITEM 13

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

FROM: MARJORIE KIRN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

RE: RESOLUTION FOR THE REISSUANCE OF THE REGIONAL WASTE BOND

At your last meeting, the Board authorized staff to begin the process of refinancing the 2007 Regional Waste Bonds.

At this time, staff is requesting the Board adopt the attached resolution that takes the next steps in the issuance of the new bonds. The resolution includes the following: 1. Determination to carry out re-financing if the savings is at least $300,000 per year. 2. Issuance of the bonds. 3. Approval of escrow agreement and the sale of bonds. 4. Authorize and direct the Executive Director to implement and execute all necessary actions and agreements on behalf of the Board.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Marjie Kirn at 723.3153 x 306 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

Attachment: Resolution No. 2015/03-19-01

MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

RESOLUTION NO. 2015/03-19-01

RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF MERCED COUNTY REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY 2015 SOLID WASTE REFUNDING REVENUE BONDS, APPROVING AN INDENTURE OF TRUST, AN ESCROW AGREEMENT AND A BOND PURCHASE AGREEMENT, AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE EXECUTION THEREOF AND AUTHORIZING ACTIONS RELATED THERETO

RESOLVED, by the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority (the “Authority”), as follows:

WHEREAS, the Authority is a joint powers authority duly organized and existing under and pursuant to that certain Third Amended and Restated Joint Powers Agreement, dated July 18, 2013, superseding the original Joint Powers Agreement, dated April 11, 1972, as amended and restated on January 16, 2007, and thereafter amended on August 16, 2007, and December 13, 2012, by and among Merced County, California and the Cities of Atwater, Dos Palos, Gustine, Livingston, Los Banos and Merced (collectively, the ““Members”), and under the provisions of Articles 1 through 4 (commencing with section 6500) of Chapter 5 of Division 7 of Title 1 of the California Government Code (the “Act”), and is authorized pursuant to Article 4 of the Act to borrow money for the purpose of financing and refinancing the acquisition of bonds, notes and other obligations of, or for the purpose of making loans to, public entities, including the Members, and to provide financing for public capital improvements of public entities, including the Members;

WHEREAS, the Authority has heretofore authorized, issued and sold $33,415,000 principal amount of its Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority Solid Waste Revenue Bonds, Series 2007 (the “2007 Bonds”), for the purpose of financing improvements to the Authority’s solid waste disposal system (the “System”);

WHEREAS, the 2007 Bonds were issued under and pursuant to an indenture of trust, dated as of July 1, 2007, as amended and supplemented by a first supplemental indenture, dated as of July 1, 2007, each by and between the Authority and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., since succeeded by The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee;

WHEREAS, the payment of the principal of and interest on the 2007 Bonds by the Authority is secured by a pledge of the net revenues derived from the operation of the System;

WHEREAS, the Authority has determined, after due investigation and deliberation, that it is in the interests of the Authority at this time to provide for the issuance of additional bonds under the Bond Law to (a) refund, on an advance basis, the 2007 Bonds, and (b) pay the costs of issuance of such bonds; WHEREAS, to that end, the Authority has determined to issue its revenue bonds, to be designated as the Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority 2015 Solid Waste Refunding Revenue Bonds (the “Bonds”), to be secured by a pledge of the net revenues derived from the operation of the System;

WHEREAS, the Authority is authorized pursuant to the provisions of section 6546 of the Act (the “Bond Law”), to issue its revenue bonds;

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Authority has duly considered such transactions and wishes at this time to approve said transactions in the public interests of the Authority;

NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby ORDERED and DETERMINED, as follows:

SECTION 1. Determination to Carry Out Financing. The Board hereby determines to carry out the issuance and sale of the Bonds to provide for the refunding of the 2007 Bonds.

SECTION 2. Issuance of the Bonds; Approval of Indenture.

(a) The Board hereby authorizes the issuance of the Bonds. The maximum aggregate principal amount of the Bonds is not limited so long as the debt service payments to be made by the Authority with respect to the Bonds results in annual savings of at least $300,000 as compared to the debt service requirements of the 2007 Bonds.

(b) The Bonds shall be issued pursuant to an indenture of trust, by and between the Authority and the Trustee. The Board hereby approves an indenture in the form on file with the Secretary (the “Indenture”), together with such non-material additions thereto and changes therein as the Chair, the Vice Chair, the Executive Director or the Treasurer of the Authority (the “Designated Officers”) shall deem necessary, desirable or appropriate, the execution of which by the Authority shall be conclusive evidence of the approval of any such non-material additions and changes. The Designated Officers, each acting alone, are hereby authorized and directed to execute, and the Secretary is hereby authorized and directed to attest to, the final form of the Indenture for and in the name and on behalf of the Authority. The Board hereby authorizes the delivery and performance of the Indenture.

SECTION 3. Approval of Escrow Agreement. The Authority hereby approves an escrow agreement, by and between the Authority and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as escrow bank and as trustee for the 2007 Bonds (the “Escrow Bank”), in the form of the Escrow Agreement on file with the Secretary (the “Escrow Agreement”), together with such non-material additions thereto and changes therein as a Designated Officer shall deem necessary, desirable or appropriate, the execution of which by the Authority shall be conclusive evidence of the approval of any such non-material additions and changes. The Designated Officers, each acting alone, are hereby authorized and directed to execute, and the Secretary is hereby authorized and directed to attest to, the final form of the Escrow Agreement for and in the name and on behalf of the Authority. The Authority hereby authorizes the delivery and performance of the Escrow Agreement.

-2- SECTION 4. Sale of Bonds. The Board hereby approves the sale of the Bonds by the Authority by negotiation with an institutional purchaser to be determined pursuant to a competitive process (the “Purchaser”), pursuant to a bond purchase agreement and rate lock in the form on file with the Secretary (the “Bond Purchase Agreement”), together with such non- material additions thereto and changes therein as a Designated Officer shall deem necessary, desirable or appropriate, the execution of which by the Authority shall be conclusive evidence of the approval of any such non-material additions and changes. The Designated Officers, each acting alone, are hereby authorized and directed to execute the final form of the Bond Purchase Agreement for and in the name and on behalf of the Authority upon the submission of an offer by the Purchaser to purchase the Bonds, which offer is acceptable to a Designated Officer and consistent with the requirements of this Resolution.

SECTION 5. Official Actions. The President, the Vice President, the Executive Director, the Treasurer, the Secretary and any and all other officers of the Authority are hereby authorized and directed, for and in the name and on behalf of the Authority, to do any and all things and take any and all actions, including execution and delivery of any and all assignments, certificates, requisitions, agreements, notices, consents, instruments of conveyance, warrants and other documents, which they, or any of them, may deem necessary or advisable in order to consummate the lawful issuance and sale of the Bonds and the consummation of the transactions as described herein.

SECTION 6. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect from and after the date of its passage and adoption.

I, the undersigned Secretary of the Merced County Regional Waste Management Authority, hereby certify that the foregoing is a full, true and correct copy of a resolution duly adopted by the Board of Directors of the Authority at a meeting thereof on the 19th day of March, 2015, by the following vote of the members thereof:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSTAIN:

ABSENT:

Secretary

-3-

ITEM 14a

TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

February 19, 2015

MINUTES

The regular meeting of the TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY held on Thursday, February 19, 2015, at the County of Merced, Board of Supervisors Chambers, 2222 M Street, Merced, CA was called to order by Chair Thurston at 3:46 P.M.

DIRECTORS PRESENT Rodrigo Espinoza Tom Faria for Mike Villalta Deidre Kelsey Daron McDaniel Jerry O’Banion Joe Oliveira John Pedrozo Jim Price Stan Thurston Hub Walsh

DIRECTORS ABSENT Jerry Antonetti

12. Consent Agenda

a. Minutes of the January 15, 2015 Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County meeting b. Low Carbon Transit Operations Program Allocation Request c. Request for Staff to Attend Out of State Training d. Reallocation of Public Transportation Modernization, Improvement, and Service Enhancement Account Funds for Mobile Data Terminals Project

Director Kelsey moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Seconded by Director McDaniel. Ayes – Directors Pedrozo, Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – None MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

13. Oral Report – Transit Monthly Update

So noted.

14. Presentation on Transit Bus Spare Ratio and Bus Replacement Plan

Rich Green gave an in-depth presentation on the Transit bus spare ratio requirements and the bus replace plan.

15. Purchase of ARBOC Low-Floor Cutaway Buses

Rich Green gave a review of the request to purchase ARBOC Low-Floor Cutaway buses using remaining funds from grants that were allocated for the purpose of replacing buses.

Director Thurston moved to authorize the Executive Director to purchase eight (8) 26- foot ARBOC low-floor cutaway buses using the CalACT Cooperative Agreement in the amount of $1,426,323 and to look into the possibility of getting clean burning diesel buses. Seconded by Director Espinoza. Ayes – Directors Walsh, McDaniel, Kelsey, O’Banion, Price, Oliveira, Espinoza, Faria, Thurston Noes – Director Pedrozo MOTION CARRIED

THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS OF THE TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY, THAT PORTION OF THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED AT 4:10 P.M.

/ s / Robin Lamas Administrative Assistant II

ITEM 14b

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

FROM: RICH GREEN, TRANSIT MANAGER

RE: 2015 PARATRANSIT PLAN

DISCUSSION

Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County’s (TJPAMC) Paratransit Plan has been completely updated to include updates of the new routes, service area and fares. The new plan also clearly outlines the process and principles of ADA eligibility for the paratransit service.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Rich Green at 723.3153 x 305 or [email protected].

The Technical Review Board concurs with the requested action.

REQUESTED ACTION

Approve the 2015 Paratransit Plan.

Attachment: 2015 Paratransit Plan TRANSIT JOINT POWER AUTHORITY OF MERCED COUNTY

COMPLEMENTARY PARATRANSIT PLAN

UPDATED: February1, 2015

Approved: ______Table of Contents

Background……………………………………………………………………………………………………………Pg.1

General background…………………………………………………………………………………..pg.1

Identification and contact information……………………………………………………….Pg.1

Fixed route services………………………………………………………………………………………………..Pg.2

Population served………………………………………………………………………………………Pg.2

Service area………………………………………………………………………………………………..Pg.2

Fixed route fares…………………………………………………………………………………………Pg.7

Fixed route hours of operation…………………………………………………………………...Pg.7

Merced The Bus observed holidays……………………………………………………………..Pg.7

Merced The bus Fixed route vehicle inventory…………………………………………….Pg.8

Paratransit service…………………………………………………………………………………………………..Pg.9

Reservations……………………………………………………………………………………………….Pg.9

Cancellations………………………………………………………………………………………………Pg.9

Subscription service……………………………………………………………………………………Pg.9

Fares………………………………………………………………………………………………………….Pg.10

Paratransit hours of operation……………………………………………………………………Pg.10

Eligibility…………………………………………………………………………………………………….Pg.10

Principals for ADA eligibility……………………………………………………………………....Pg.10

Determining ADA eligibility…………………………………………………………………….….Pg.13

Identification card………………………………………………………………………………….…..Pg.13

Denials and appeals…………………………………………………………………………….……..Pg.14

ADA paratransit service for visitors…………………………………………………………….Pg.15

Personal care attendant (PCA)………………………………………………………….…………Pg.16

Paratransit fleet………………………………………………………………………………………….Pg.16

SECTION 1

BACKGROUND

1.1 GENERAL BACKGROUND

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 requires operators of general public fixed route transit systems to also provide complementary paratransit within ¾ mile radius of the fixed route service to persons unable to use the fixed route system. Paratransit service is specialized service designed for disable riders who are unable to use the fixed route system. The fixed route and complementary paratransit service must be similar in many ways. The ADA (49 CFR 37.123 – 37.133) specifies eligibility for these services, the level of service that must be provided and standards for certain aspects of operation. There are six “service criteria”, under which the service is to be “comparable” (as defined in regulations issued by the U.S. Department of transportation), to fixed route:

1. Same service area 2. Service must be provided at least on “next day reservations” 3. Fares cannot be more than twice the regular bus fare for same time of day 4. There can be no restrictions or priorities on trip purpose 5. Hours and days of service must be the same 6. There can be no “Capacity constraints” (all trips requested must be served)

Only eligible individuals that have gone through our eligibility process must be provided with service that meets the above criteria.

SECTION 2

2.1 IDENTIFICATION AND CONTACT INFORMATION

In accordance with Section 37.139 of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s regulations to implement the ADA, The Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County (TJPAMC) submits the following required information for the route deviation and complementary paratransit service plan.

The Plan is submitted by:

Name: Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County

Address: 369 W. 18th street Merced, CA 95340

Contact: Marjie Kirn, Executive Director

Telephone: (209) 723-3153 ext. 306

Email: [email protected]

Fax: (209) 723-0322

SECTION 3

FIXED ROUTE SERVICES

3.1 Population served

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Merced County’s 2010 population is estimated at 255,793, with 24.55 % in poverty.

2010 census data for Merced County , CA

Population 255,793

Age under age 18 30.4% Age 65 and older 10.2% Ethnicity and Race White person not hispanic 30.1% Hispanic or Latino 56.8% American Indian 2.5%

Asian 7.4%

Black 4.2% Median household income $43,565 Population in Poverty 24.55%

3.2 Service area

Merced The Bus provides fixed route service to the urbanized areas of Merced, Atwater, Livingston, Delhi and Winton with 10 local routes, including 5 commuter routes; As well as the rural area of Los Banos, Dos Palos and Gustine, Santa Nella and Hilmar with 2 fixed routes and 3 deviated routes. Refer to Appendix A for a map of the service area.

The existing fixed routes services provided by Merced The Bus are summarized as the following:

i. M1 Shuttle The M1 shuttle provides fixed route service to the west side of Merced. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:45am through 10:45pm, and Saturday and Sunday 7:30am through 5:30pm. The fare is $1.50 for

general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

ii. M2 Shuttle The M2 shuttle provides fixed route service on “R” street one of Merced’s main corridors. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:15am through 10:45pm, and Saturday and Sunday 7:45 am through 5:45pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

iii. M3 Shuttle The M3 shuttle provides fixed route service on “M” street one of Merced’s main corridors, with its main connection to the Merced College. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:15am through 10:30pm, and Saturday and Sunday 8:00am through 6:00pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

iv. M4 Shuttle The M4 shuttle provides fixed route service on “G” street one of Merced’s main corridors, with a main connection to the Mercy Hospital. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:30am through 10:45pm, and Saturday and Sunday 7:30am through 5:45pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

v. M5 Shuttle The M5 shuttle provides fixed route service to the South-East side of Merced. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:30am through 11:00pm, and Saturday and Sunday 8:00am through 6:15pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

vi. M6 Shuttle The M6 shuttle provides fixed route service to the North side of Merced. Service is provided Monday through Friday 7:15am through 10:30pm, and Saturday and Sunday 7:30am through 6:00pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

vii. UC Shuttle The UC shuttle provides fixed route service from the some of the main locations of Merced to the Merced College and the University of Merced. This route is funded by the University for their students. Service is provided only Monday through Friday 7:15am through 7:45pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

viii. A1 Shuttle The A1 shuttle provides fixed route service clockwise to most of the main points in Atwater. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:30am through 9:45pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:00am through 6:30pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

ix. A2 Shuttle The A2 shuttle provides fixed route service connecting the City of Atwater with the unincorporated community of Winton. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:30am through 9:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30am through 5:30pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

x. A3 Shuttle The A3 shuttle provides fixed route service across town in the City of Atwater with its main connection to the Castle Clinic. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:30am through 9:30pm, Saturday and Sunday

7:45am through 6:15pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

xi. LB1 Shuttle

The LB1 provides fixed route service along Pacheco Road (Hwy 152) at all the main locations. Service is provided only Monday through Friday 6:45am through 9:45pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:30am through 5:15pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure.

xii. LB2 Shuttle The LB2 shuttle provides fixed route service across town in Los Banos. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:00am through 9:45pm, and Saturday and Sunday 8:30am through 5:15pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix B for route brochure

xiii. The Planada Commuter The Planada commuter provides service from the communities of Planada and Legrand to Merced. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:15am through 8:00pm, Saturday 7:00am through 5:15pm and Sunday 7:00am through 5:15pm. The fare is $3.00 for general rider and $1.50 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $6.00. Refer to Appendix C for route brochure.

xiv. The Livingston Commuter The Livingston Commuter provides service between the City of Livingston, the community of Winton, and the City of Atwater to the Merced College. Service is provided Monday through Friday 5:45am through 11:00pm, Saturday and Sunday 6:30am through 7:15pm. The fare is $3.00 for general rider if traveling from one city to another or $1.50 if traveling within our UZA which includes Atwater, Winton and Merced. The elderly or disabled may travel for $1.50 if traveling from one city to another or $0.75 if traveling within our UZA as stated above.

Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00 or $6.00 Refer to Appendix C for route brochure.

xv. The Winton Commuter The Winton Commuter provides service between the unincorporated community of Winton, the City of Atwater and Merced. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:30am through 9:15pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:45am through 7:00pm. The fare is $1.50 for general rider and $0.75 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $3.00. Refer to Appendix C for route brochure.

xvi. The Turlock Commuter The Turlock Commuter provides service to most cities or communities along Highway 99 which include: Merced, Atwater, Livingston, Delhi and Turlock. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:15am through 10:45pm, and Saturday and Sunday 9:00am through 7:15pm. The fare is $3.00 for general rider and $1.50 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $6.00. Refer to Appendix C for route brochure.

xvii. The Los Banos Commuter The Los Banos commuter provides service between the City of Los Banos, Dos Palos and Merced. Service is provided Monday through Friday 5:45am through 10:15pm, and Saturday and Sunday 2 runs each day. The fare is $3.00 for general rider and $1.50 for the elderly and disabled persons. Complementary paratransit is available during all operating hours for ADA eligible passengers for a fare of $6.00. Refer to Appendix C for route brochure.

xviii. Dos Palos Link The Dos Palos Link is a deviated fixed route which provides service between the City of Dos Palos and the City of Los Banos. Service is provided Monday through Friday 5:45am through 9:30pm, and Saturday and Sunday 2 runs each day. Dos Palos Link provides route deviations for all passengers throughout the cities and communities it serves during all operating hours, but requires a next day reservation for a fee of $3.00 per local trip and $6.00 per intercity trip. Refer to Appendix C for route brochure.

xix. Gustine Link The Gustine Link is a deviated fixed route which provides service between Los Banos, Gustine, Newman, Santa Nella, and Merced. Service is provided Monday through Friday 6:30am through 4:00pm, and on Saturday from 7:00 am to 3:00pm. The fare is $3.00 for general rider and $1.50 for the elderly and disabled persons. The Gustine Link provides route deviations for all passengers throughout the cities and communities it serves during all operating hours, but requires a next day reservation for a fee of $3.00 per local trip and $6.00 per intercity trip. Refer to Appendix C for route brochure.

xx. Hilmar Link The Hilmar link is a deviated fixed route which provides service between Los Banos, Stevinson, Hilmar, Turlock and Merced. This is a Monday through Friday route with 2 runs each day. The fare is $3.00 for general rider and $1.50 for the elderly and disabled persons. The Hilmar link provides route deviations for all passengers throughout the cities and communities it serves during all operating hours, but requires a next day reservation for a fee of $3.00 per local trip and $6.00 per intercity trip. Refer to Appendix C for route brochure.

b. Fixed Route Fares Merced The Bus fare within a city or community including Merced, Atwater and Winton is $1.50 for a general rider. If traveling from any city or community to another it is $3.00 for a general rider. The elderly (62+), ADA or Medicare card holders may ride the fixed route for half the fare at any given time of day. Children 46” and shorter may ride for free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. Transfer passes are available if more than 1 bus is needed to get to the passengers destination. c. Fixed Route Hours of Operation

Monday through Friday 5:30 am to 11:00 pm Saturday 7:00 am to 7:00 pm Sunday 7:30 am to 7:00 pm

d. Merced The Bus Observed Holidays

Merced The Bus does not operate on the following holidays: • New Year’s Day • Memorial Day • 4th of July • Labor Day

• Thanksgiving Day • Christmas Day e. Merced The Bus Fixed Route Vehicle Inventory

Seating Capacity ADA BUS Year/ Model +Standees accessible M-72 2002/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-73 2002/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-74 2002/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-76 2002/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-77 2002/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-78 2003/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-79 2003/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-80 2003/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-81 2003/ Gillig 37+20st's YES-lift M-90 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-91 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-92 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-93 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-94 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-95 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-96 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-97 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-98 2006 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-99 2009 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-100 2009 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-101 2009 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-102 2009 / Orion CNG 33+20st's YES-ramp M-216 2009 / Ford Glaval 16+2st's YES-lift M-217 2009 / Ford Glaval 16+2st's YES-lift M-218 2009 / Ford Glaval 16+2st's YES-lift M-150 2012 / Gillig low floor 23+20st's YES-ramp M-151 2012 / Gillig low floor 23+20st's YES-ramp M-152 2012 / Gillig low floor 23+20st's YES-ramp M-153 2012 / Gillig low floor 23+20st's YES-ramp M-154 2012 / Gillig low floor 23+20st's YES-ramp M-155 2012 / Gillig low floor 23+20st's YES-ramp M-156 2012 / Gillig low floor 23+20st's YES-ramp M10 2012 / Ford Glaval 16+2st's YES-lift M11 2012 / Ford Glaval 16+2st's YES-lift M12 2012 / Ford Glaval 16+2st's YES-lift

M-157 2013 / Gillig low floor 40+20st's YES-ramp M-158 2013 / Gillig low floor 40+20st's YES-ramp M-159 2013 / Gillig low floor 40+20st's YES-ramp M-160 2013 / Gillig low floor 40+20st's YES-ramp M-161 2013 / Gillig low floor 40+20st's YES-ramp M-162 2013 / Gillig low floor 40+20st's YES-ramp M-163 2013 / Gillig low floor 40+20st's YES-ramp

i. All of Merced The Bus transit vehicle and fixed route services are 100% accessible.

2. PARATRANSIT SERVICES

Merced The Bus operates a complementary paratransit, which provides curb-to-curb transportation to all ADA eligible passengers, but a door-to-door service can be provided when needed. Merced The Bus exceeds the requirement stating we are to provide service within ¾ mile of the fixed route system. Paratransit service is provided to origins and destinations beyond the ¾ mile corridor of the fixed routes.

a. Reservations

Monday –Sunday: 8am – 5pm

Next day service is provided by Merced The Bus for request made the day before prior to 5:00 p.m. Reservations are taken seven days a week for next-day service and can be made up to 14 days in advance. Reservations will be taken by an answering machine on days when the dispatch office is closed.

Trips are never restricted or prioritized based on trip purpose, but as a first come first serve basis. If there is no availability at the time you have request The Bus staff may negotiate pick-up times with the individual, but not more than one hour before or after the individual’s desired departure time.

b. Cancellations Monday – Friday 5:30 am – 11:00pm Saturday-Sunday 7:00am- 7:00 pm

To avoid no-show cancellations must be made at least 2 hours before pick-up time.

c. Subscription Service Subscription service is when an eligible person arranges a standing appointment for a ride, such as an 8am departure to work and a 5pm return trip, every Monday through Friday. A daily reservation is not required for this type of scheduled subscription service.

Subscription service is available to all passengers as long as subscriptions do not exceed fifty percent of the total number of trips available at a given time of day, unless there is non-subscription capacity. d. Fares The ADA fare on paratransit is $3.00 for a local trip within a city or community or traveling within our UZA Merced, Atwater and Winton. If a passenger is traveling from a city or community to another that does not include the cities in the UZA the trip is $6.00. Passengers are also able to purchase a $50 prepaid multi-ride pass that deducts each trip at a discount rate of $2.50 for a local trip and $5.00 for an intercity trip. e. Paratransit hours of operation

Monday through Friday 5:30 am to 11:00 pm Saturday 7:00 am to 7:00 pm Sunday 7:30 am to 7:00 pm f. Eligibility process All elements of the eligibility program were developed following the federal ADA regulations and with participation of the disability advocacy community.

i. Principles for ADA Eligibility

1. Merced The Bus is required only to service ADA eligible persons on ADA eligible trips. 2. Merced The Bus is contracted with ADARIDE who is responsible for determining ADA eligibility. 3. To determine eligibility, the applicant will fill out the application form, which also includes a medical verification of an applicant’s disability. 4. Some persons will be ADA eligible for some trips and not for others. 5. A passenger may obtain an application in the following ways: fill it out online, get an application mailed out, or if they are unable to fill it out themselves ADARIDE has a special customer service line that will assist them in filling it out. 6. In order to maximize use of fixed route services by disabled persons, travel training will be provided if requested by passenger. 7. Current users of ADA eligibility were not automatically assumed ADA eligible. 8. The appeals process will be done by TJPAMC after an in-house assessment. 9. TJPAMC will issue an ADA paratransit identification card to ADA eligible passengers.

ii. Overview of the ADA applications Process

The application process is outlined on the chart in Figure 1. The eligibility process used is that of a self-assessment with professional verification. The application process for ADA eligibility begins when an individual request an application from our contractor (ADARIDE) either by mail, telephone or online. Passengers are then given one 30-day complementary access to The Bus’s paratransit service to allow them time to get through their eligibility process. Normal rules and fees apply during the complimentary access period.

Contact information for ADARIDE:

ADARIDE 6151 West Century Blvd. Suite #304 Los Angeles, CA 90045-5307 Online: www.adaride.com Toll Free: (877) 232-7433 – Bilingual Spanish TTY: (310) 410-0985 FAX: (310) 410-0239 Monday through Friday, 8am to 4pm (PST) Closed Noon to 1pm (PST)

iii. Determining ADA Eligibility

Once an applicant is determined to have a qualifying disability that prevents his or her use of fixed route services, the ADARIDES staff must make additional decisions related to eligibility. The certifying staff must determine the ADA category of eligibility and what type of eligibility they will receive.

Applicants can get one of the 5 eligibilities:

1. Unrestricted – no barriers 2. Conditional – on bad days you could ride paratransit, on good days you are encouraged to ride fixed route. 3. Trip-By-Trip – each trip is to be determined whether you can ride paratransit based on your individual barriers. 4. Temporary – usually for 1 year 5. Ineligible – you did not qualify and should use fixed route system.

All eligibilities are given for 3 years except Temporary is for 1 year then you must recertify. iv. Identification Card

A person determined to be eligible for ADA services must be provided some form of documentation that can be used as identification when using the services, as well as when the person travels to another transit system service area. A simple identification card stating eligibility is used by Merced The Bus. The documentation on the identification card must include the name of the ADA eligible individual, the name and telephone number of certifying transit provider, an expiration date, and type of eligibility. If the individual has indicted a need for a personal care attendant (PCA) or service animal, this must be also noted on the identification card.

v. Denials and Appeals

There are options available to an applicant once ADA eligibility has been denied or a restricted eligibility determination is made by ADARIDE the Merced The Bus contractor.

An individual receiving a notification of denial of ADA eligibility service has the right under the ADA legislation to appeal the decision. The applicant may appeal the entire eligibility decision or only the condition under which he or she has been certified. An appeal process may also be used by consumers who have received a suspension of service. Figure 2 reviews the application process and appeals procedure.

g. ADA Paratransit Services for Visitors

An individual with disabilities can either present documentation of ADA paratransit eligibility from the jurisdiction in which he/she resides, or write a statement signed by the visitor that they are unable to navigate on the fixed route system during their visit because of their disability. The Bus will provide paratransit service for up to 21 days within a year.

h. Personal Care Attendant (PCA): A PCA is someone designated or employed to help the eligible passenger’s personal needs. A PCA may ride with the ADA eligible passenger to and from their destination at no cost. A need for a PCA must be established on the application. i. Paratransit Fleet

ITEM 14c

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

FROM: RICH GREEN, TRANSIT MANAGER

RE: FREE FARE FOR THE FAIR

BACKGROUND

A few weeks before the 2014 Merced County Fair in the City of Merced, Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County (TJPAMC) staff worked with the Fairgrounds office to quickly put together a Free Fair Shuttle. This shuttle was designed primarily to transport transit riders from the Merced Transpo to the fairgrounds and back during the fair. However, it was also open to the public.

Due to the fact that we had limited time to prepare and we were unsure of the demand, there was only limited promotion for this service. We averaged approximately 25 passengers per day.

DISCUSSION

This year we have more time to prepare. Staff met with Fair staff regarding this year’s Merced County Fair, June 10th-14th. We reviewed the lessons learned from last year and we have come up with some new and exciting ideas. We talked about improving the logistics in and out of the fairgrounds along with some incentives for people to use The Bus. This would be a prime opportunity to get local residents to try using The Bus who might not normally try it.

Staff recommends starting an advertising campaign called “Free Fare for the Fair” to promote using public transit to get to and from both the Merced County Fair in Merced and the Merced County Spring Fair in Los Banos. This would include operating a Free Fair Shuttle for the Merced Fair to and from the Merced Transpo from the hours of:

• Wednesday (6/10) First departure at 4:45pm, Last arrival at 11:15pm • Thursday (6/11) First departure at 4:45pm, Last arrival at 11:15pm • Friday (6/12) First departure at 4:45pm, Last arrival at 11:15pm • Saturday (6/13) First departure at 2:45pm, Last arrival at 11:15pm (2 buses after 6:00pm) • Sunday (6/14) First departure at 2:45pm, Last arrival at 11:15pm (2 buses after 6:00pm)

The cost to operate the Free Fare Shuttle for the Merced Fair would be approximately $4,000. This would also include allowing for free rides on paratransit for eligible passengers to and from the Fairgrounds within the City of Merced during the same time periods.

Staff also recommends allowing free rides on all of the routes that operate exclusively within the City of Merced (M-1, M-2, M-3, M-4, M-5, M-6, and UC) starting 30 minutes prior to the operating hours of the Free Fair Shuttle and ending at their regularly scheduled hours. This would help people to get to the Transpo from all over the City to catch the Free Fair Shuttle. This would also promote our evening and weekend service. Please note that the regular fixed route buses leave the Merced Transpo for the last run between 9:30-10:30pm on weekdays and between 6:00-6:15pm on weekends. To accommodate the later weekend hours, staff will work on designating one park and ride location in North Merced and one in South Merced and have a second shuttle bus assist with getting people to those locations after 6:00pm.

To help incentivize riding the bus to the Fair, the Fair staff is looking into allowing drivers to sell admission tickets on the buses at the presale price of $5 per ticket. This would allow passengers to purchase tickets on their trip in and go straight to the entrance gate without waiting in line to purchase a $7 ticket.

For the Merced County Spring Fair in Los Banos from April 29th through May 3rd, staff recommends allowing passengers to ride the local LB1 and LB2 routes for free during fair hours. Both of these routes go right in front of the fairgrounds as they cross town, so it would be an easy way to get people to and from the fair without the need for an additional shuttle. This would help promote The Bus in Los Banos and hopefully increase ridership. This would include allowing free rides on paratransit for eligible passengers to and from the Fairgrounds within the city limits of Los Banos during the same time periods.

Staff will also be attending both of the fairs providing information and giving away prizes to promote public transit.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Rich Green at 723.3153 x 305 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

Authorize the Transit Manager to implement the “Free Fare for the Fair” campaign, with the Free Fair Shuttle, and free local rides during fair hours as described.

ITEM 14d

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

FROM: RICH GREEN, TRANSIT MANAGER

RE: APPROVAL OF THE FISCAL YEAR 14/15 CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES RESOLUTION FOR PURCHASING SOLAR POWERED CHANGEABLE MESSAGE SIGNS FOR BUS STOPS

BACKGROUND

Each year the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) allocates $206,289 to Merced County for transit safety projects. These funds have been used for a variety of projects, including installing safety cameras on the buses, solar lights for shelters and a backup generator for the dispatch office. Staff is currently in the process of working on closing out other CalOES grants this year to install safety glass and surveillance cameras at the Merced Transpo and installing video monitors and DVRs on the entire bus fleet for safety and public service messages.

DISCUSSION

Staff would like to submit an application for the FY14/15 funds available to purchase solar powered changeable message signs for our key bus stop locations. These signs will communicate wirelessly with our Automatic Vehicle Locator software to determine real-time arrivals for buses at each particular stop. Staff anticipates being able to purchase approximately thirty-four (34) of these signs to place at strategic high volume areas throughout Merced County. These signs will also provide light at night for the poles that they are installed on. Staff will perform the installations. See example to the right:

In order to submit the application request for this project, the TJPAMC Board must approve the attached Board resolution.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Rich Green at 723.3153 x 305 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

Approve Resolution No. 2015/03-19-02

Attachment: Resolution No. 2015/03-19-02

RESOLUTION NO. 2015/03-19-02

RESOLUTION OF THE TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY (TJPA) AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF APPLICATION WITH THE CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES (CALOES) FOR FY 2014/15 TRANSIT SYSTEM SAFETY, SECURITY AND DISASTER RESPONSE ACCOUNT PROGRAM

WHEREAS, the Highway Safety, Traffic Reduction, Air Quality, and Port Security Bond Act of 2006 authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds for specified purposes, including, but not limited to, funding made available for capital projects that provide increased protection against security and safety threats, and for capital expenditures to increase the capacity of transit operators to develop disaster response transportation systems; and

WHEREAS, the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) administers such funds deposited in the Transit System Safety, Security, and Disaster Response Account under the California Transit Security Grant Program (CTSGP); and

WHEREAS, the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County is eligible to receive CTSGP funds; and

WHEREAS, the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County will apply for FY 14/15 CTSGP funds in an amount up to $206,289 for the purchase of thirty-four (34) LCD Solar-Powered Changeable Message Signs for bus stop poles to provide lighting for our passengers and real-time estimated time of arrival for our buses to minimize the time spent at a stop.

WHEREAS, Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County recognizes that it is responsible for compliance with all CalOES CTSGP grant assurances, and state and federal laws, including, but not limited to, laws governing the use of bond funds; and

WHEREAS, CalOES requires Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County to complete and submit a Governing Body Resolution for the purposes of identifying agent(s) authorized to act on behalf of Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County to execute actions necessary to obtain CTSGP funds from Cal OES and ensure continued compliance with Cal OES CTSGP assurances, and state and federal laws.

THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED BY THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY THAT MARJIE KIRN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, OR HER DESIGNEE, is hereby authorized to execute for and on behalf of Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County, a public entity established under the laws of the State of California, any actions necessary for the purpose of obtaining financial assistance provided by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services under the CTSGP.

Passed and approved this 19th day of March, 2015.

Certification

I, ______, duly appointed and (Name)

______of the ______(Title) (Governing Body) do hereby certify that the above is a true and correct copy of a resolution passed and approved by the ______of the ______on the (Governing body) (Name of Applicant)

______day of, ______, 20______.

______(Official Position)

______(Signature)

______

ITEM 15

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

FROM: RICH GREEN, TRANSIT MANAGER

RE: ORAL REPORT – TRANSIT MONTHLY UPDATE

SUMMARY

In order to keep the Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County Board (TJPAMC) informed, Transit Manager for TJPAMC, Rich Green will provide a monthly update.

The topics of discussion will include but may not be limited to: • Update on bus pullout/shelter installation pilot project o City of Merced . Loughborough Drive at Walmart (near-side bus stop pullout and shelter) . Austin Avenue at Lowes (far-side bus stop pullout and shelter) . Austin Avenue at Hobby Lobby (mid-block bus stop pullout and shelter) o City of Dos Palos . Reynolds Avenue at Carver Center (ADA accessible concrete slab with bench & shelter only) • Upcoming Community Events o Beachwood Franklin Committee for Improvement’s Egg-tastic Event (March 28th) th o Livingston Kite Festival (April 12 ) Merced’s Day of the Child (April 18th) o th o Golden Valley Health Center’s Earth Day (April 24 ) Los Banos Spring Fair (April 29th-March 3rd) o th th o Merced County Fair (June 10 -June 14 ) • Update on Operations/Maintenance/Fuel RFP th o Proposal’s due March 30 • Update on Transit Yard Lease Agreement with Merced County

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Rich Green at 723-3100 x305 or [email protected]

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

ITEM 16

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

FROM: RICH GREEN, TRANSIT MANAGER

RE: DRAFT TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY BUDGET FISCAL YEAR 15/16

DISCUSION

Attached is the proposed Draft 2015/16 Revenue and Budget table for Transit.

For operating expenses, MCAG staff costs will increase due to projected standard cost increases, additional adjustments to the ICAP rate, and increasing demand on accounting staff. Both the Operations and Bus Maintenance contracts are currently out to bid. The actual costs are to be determined. Staff is using place holders for these costs based on the Independent Cost Estimate that was done for the Request for Proposals. The Bus Stop Cleaning Service Contractor will increase due to the fact that more bus stops are going to be installed over the coming year. With the new Wi-Fi enabled Mobile Data Terminals to be installed this summer, we will see an increase in cost for the data plans used to provide this service. New internet and analog phone service provider would also decrease the cost of these services. Training has been increased slightly to allow for more cross-training of staff and to take more advantage of training opportunities. Other items listed have been increased based on projections of actual cost from this year.

Four new items have been added to the budget for this fiscal year. The first is hiring private security to monitor the Merced Transpo during early morning and evening hours of operation, approximately 12 hours on weekdays and 6 hours on weekends. This may also include security staff randomly riding high volume or routes with specific issues.

The second is to hire a consultant to install “dashboard” software that ties into all of our technology for daily, monthly and annual reporting. This would include, but not be limited to, maintenance and repair data from the asset management system; ridership, mileage and on-time performance data from the Automatic Vehicle Locator (Syncromatics) software; Operations monthly reports on ticket sales, revenue hours; on-time performance, denials, reservation data from dispatch scheduling software; budget and expenditures data; and farebox revenues. The purpose of this system is for staff to easily integrate and monitor all of the systems data on a daily basis and be able to generate standard reports for board meetings, public outreach, route revisions, budgets, and our federally required monthly National Transit Database.

The third new item is adding I.T. support for the Transit Operations Facility. Currently the Operations contractor is responsible for their own I.T. support. Since the servers and most of the computers at the Transit Operations Facility are property of TJPAMC, staff recommends hiring I.T. support for all TJPAMC owned equipment.

The last new item is a placeholder for the lease agreement between TJPAMC and Merced County for the transit yard property and facilities, including the CNG maintenance facility and bus wash. Merced County had an independent assessment of the property to determine its fair market value to be $1,950 per month for the first year.

The remaining items listed are being reduced from the budget because they are either no longer needed, or they are being covered by specific grants. The CMAQ Marketing Grant will cover the annual costs for attending public events, the purchase of promotional items, and printing of brochures, rider’s guides, system maps and other printed materials. The new LCTOP grant will be used specifically for the task of increasing ridership, through targeted outreach and travel training.

For capital expenses, TJPAMC is working on closing out many grants during FY 14/15, some of which may carry over into FY 15/16. These projects include the following:

• California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) Safety Grants o Installation of the Back-up Generator at the Transit Operations yard o Installation of additional surveillance cameras and safety glass at Merced Transpo o Installation of the video display monitors and media players on all of the buses o Installation of lighted crosswalks near 4-5 bus stops o Installation of solar changeable message signs at high volume bus stops • PTMISEA Grants o installation of new Syncromatics MDTs, with Wi-Fi bridge • LTF Funds o Installation of bus shelters

New Capital projects for FY 15/16 will include the following:

• PTMISEA Grants o Purchase 1-35’ Gillig replacement bus with remaining grant funds ($440,000) o Purchase 4-26’ ARBOC cutaway buses ($680,000) • LTF Funds o Finish installation of required pull-outs and bus stops. This will also include repainting all bus shelters and hiring a project engineer to oversee the permitting, design and construction. ($1,000,000)

• CalOES Grant o Installation of solar Changeable Message Signs at bus stops that communicate with our automatic vehicle locator system (thebuslive.com) to display when the next buses will be arriving

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Rich Green at 723.3153 x 305 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For discussion only.

Attachment: Proposed Draft 2015/16 Revenue and Budget Table TJPA DRAFT 2015-16 BUDGET SUMMARY

Projected Budget Budget 2015-2016 2014-2015 Variance Revenue State Transit Assistance 1,411,184 1,400,000 11,184 Local Transp. Funds 6,732,536 6,000,000 732,536 Interest 7,000 7,000 -

Federal Agencies CMAQ-Demo Extended Service 1,200,000 1,200,000 - CMAQ - Marketing Promo 100,000 100,000 FTA Cec 5311 - Rural 617,919 600,000 17,919 FTA 5307-Merced 2,565,126 2,700,000 (134,874) LCTOP - Travel & Training 181,866 91,000 90,866

Farebox Revenues 1,463,448 1,478,082 (14,634) Taxi Script 54,400 54,400 - UC Route 22 Revenue 339,900 330,000 9,900 Total Operating Revenue 14,673,379 13,960,482 712,897

Captial Projects Revenue CMAQ-Buses - 2,518,592 (2,518,592) PTMISEA 1,120,000 - 1,120,000 LTF -Bus Shelter Install.-incl C/O 1,900,000 900,000 1,000,000 CALEMA (CMS) & C/O 618,867 412,578 206,289 Total Capital Projects Revenue 3,638,867 3,831,170 (192,303) Total All Revenues 18,312,246 17,791,652 520,594

Operating Expenses Prof & Special Svc 9,163,743 7,364,278 1,799,465 Communications - IS 28,950 49,750 (20,800) Janitorial Expense 2,100 2,100 - Insurance - Gen Liability 18,000 13,400 4,600 Maint Equipment 2,320,000 2,520,000 (200,000) Maint - Equip Fuel 2,250,000 2,277,000 (27,000) Maint-Structures 20,920 20,920 - Membership 3,600 3,600 - Marketing & Promotions (CMAQ) 100,000 100,000 - Office Expense 13,900 13,900 - Rents & Leases - Struct 68,800 45,460 23,340 Trans, Travel & Training 16,100 15,000 1,100 Utilities 37,700 35,400 2,300 Special Department 447,700 392,700 55,000 LCTOP - Training & Promo Program 181,866 91,000 90,866 Total Operating Expenses 14,673,379 12,944,508 1,728,871

Fixed Asset-Capital - 3,638,867 3,831,170 192,303 Total All Expenses 18,312,246 16,775,678 1,921,174

Net Income - (1,015,974) 1,400,580 ITEM 17

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

FROM: RICH GREEN, TRANSIT MANAGER

RE: OPTIONS FOR REALLOCATION OF THE FISCAL YEAR 14/15 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION MODERNIZATION, IMPROVEMENT, AND SERVICE ENHANCEMENT FUNDS

BACKGROUND

At the December 2014 Transit Joint Powers Authority for Merced County (TJPAMC) Board meeting, the Board approved allocating the FY 14/15 Public Transportation Modernization, Improvement, and Service Enhancement (PTMISEA) funds of $2,726,163 for the project of replacing nine transit coaches with six new ones when they are eligible for retirement in July of 2018. Staff explained that the resolution for this project had to be adopted in December in order to secure the funding allocation, but there was still time to change the project if the Board desired.

At the December Board meeting, the item was approved with the recommendation that staff bring back to the Board other options for projects that these funds could be used for.

DISCUSSION

According to the California Department of Transportation’s PTMISEA Guidelines, published July 2013, this funding is available for transit capital projects in the following categories:

1. Rehabilitation, safety, or modernization: includes purchase of equipment (such as bus engines, computer systems, and signage) for rehabilitation, operation, modernization, or safety. 2. Capital service enhancement or expansion, such as modernization of bus shelters, transit centers, and operation and maintenance facilities, for design and/or construction phases. 3. New capital projects: new construction, expansion, or modernization of buildings, bus shelters, transit centers, and operation and maintenance facilities, for design, right-of - way, or construction phases. 4. Bus rapid transit improvements: construction or expansion of BRT lanes or equipment. 5. Rolling stock: purchase, replace or rehabilitate transit vehicles, such as buses, vans, paratransit vehicles, and rail transit vehicles. 6. Note: Environmental work is not eligible for PTMISEA funding. 7. Funds may not be used for administration, operations, or routine maintenance.

Based on the categories for eligible projects staff suggests the Board consider the following potential projects:

1. 1-2 Electric buses with charging station at Merced Transpo. 2. Major redesign and reconfigure of the existing Transpo in Merced to accommodate current and future volume of buses, including remodeling interior facilities. 3. Construction of new expanded Transpo in Merced near proposed High Speed Rail station or alternative location near Amtrak. 4. Construction of Transpo in Los Banos. 5. Upgrades to Atwater Transpo, including addition of restrooms and additional lighting. 6. Construction of new Transit Yard and Maintenance Facility.

The PTMISEA funds are intended for projects that are ready to be implemented. All the projects suggested above require state and federal environmental review that make it difficult to accomplish in a reasonable timeframe to use this funding source. Staff recommended purchasing buses as there is no environmental review required.

These projects listed above may require additional funding depending on actual costs.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Rich Green at 723.3153 x 305 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For discussion only.

ITEM 18

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY

FROM: CHRISTINA SMITH, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

RE: TRANSIT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR MERCED COUNTY FINANCIAL REPORT FOR JULY 2014 – JANUARY 2015

DISCUSSION

Attached for your review is the Profit and Loss Budget versus Actual report for the period July 2014 through January 2015.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Christina Smith at 723.3153 x 304 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For information only.

Attachment: Profit and Loss Budget vs. Actual report for the period July 2014 through January 2015

Transit JPA Profit Loss Budget vs. Actual July through January 2015 Unaudited Variance Budget Remaining Remaining July -Jan 15 July -June 15 Balance Budget % Income State Transit Assistance - 1,400,000 1,400,000 100.0% Local Transp. Funds 4,000,000 5,000,000 1,000,000 20.0% Interest 7,961 7,000 -961 -13.73% GASB Adjustment Interest 15,721 - - 0.0% Federal Agencies CMAQ 384,048 1,200,000 815,952 68.0% FTA Cec 5311 - Rural 600,000 600,000 100.0% FTA 5307-Merced 2,896,954 2,700,000 -196,954 -7.29% Subtotal - Federal Agencies 3,281,002 4,500,000 1,218,998 27.09% Farebox Revenues 732,698 1,409,179 676,481 48.01% Taxi Script 4,424 8,000 3,576 44.7% Misc Other-UC MERCED 86,519 330,000 243,481 73.78% Misc Other-Asset Sale 18,767 0 (18,767) 0.0% Special Services 3,879 50,000 46,121 92.24% Transfer In - PTMISEA & CalEMA funds - 7,680,517 7,680,517 100.0% Total Income 8,150,972 20,384,696 12,249,445 60.09%

Gross Profit 8,150,972 20,384,696 12,249,445 60.09%

Expense Prof & Special Svc 3,800,175 7,314,949 3,514,774 48.05% Communications - IS 18,255 49,750 31,495 63.31% Janitorial Expense 1,184 2,100 916 43.64% Insurance - Gen Liability 9,006 13,400 4,394 32.79% Maint Equipment 941,026 2,540,920 1,599,894 62.97% Maint - Equip Fuel 269,016 2,277,000 2,007,984 88.19% Membership 2,863 3,600 737 20.47% Office Expense 22,673 13,100 (9,573) -73.08% Rents & Leases - Struct 27,122 46,260 19,138 41.37% Trans & Travel 6,157 15,000 8,843 58.96% Utilities 5,239 35,400 30,161 85.2% Speical Department 8,415 392,700 384,285 97.86% Total Expense 5,111,129 12,704,179 7,593,050 59.77%

Fixed Asset-Capital 554,258 7,680,517 7,126,259 92.78%

Net Income 2,485,584 0 (2,485,584)

Page 1

ITEM 19

MEMORANDUM

DATE: MARCH 12, 2015

TO: MCAG GOVERNING BOARD

FROM: MARJORIE KIRN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

RE: CHANGING THE MCAG BOARD MEETING TIME

At your last meeting Director Espinoza requested an item be placed on the agenda to discuss changing the Governing Board meeting time.

At your meeting, the Board will discuss changing the meeting time and direct staff to follow through with any decision made by the Board.

If you have any questions regarding this staff report please contact Marjie Kirn at 723.3153 x 306 or [email protected].

REQUESTED ACTION

For discussion and possible action.