A proposed fare increase for Jefferson City's transit system is moving forward, with the City Council expected to consider it next month.
At the Public Works and Planning Committee meeting, Transit Division Director Mark Mehmert presented the proposed increase, which has been recommended by the city's Public Transit Advisory Committee, though several members of that committee also had commented the increase would create a burden for many transit riders.
The recommended increase, which already is in the 2015 budget, would bring fares for regular routes from $1 to $1.50, while fares for HandiWheels would be raised from $2 to $3. Reduced fare, which is offered for those over the age of 60, people with disabilities and Medicare cardholders, would be increased from 50 cents to 75 cents.
The city estimates the increase would generate about $30,000 in revenue.
Fifth Ward Councilman Larry Henry noted the fare increase will not help improve services, but simply maintain the system's current service, which is why he sees the need for the increase.
"I don't necessarily want to do a fare increase, but it's necessary," Henry said.
Part of the transit committee's recommendation was to consider instituting a one-day pass to help combat the negative effects of a fare increase. Public Works Director Matt Morasch said he and Mehmert have discussed some ideas on how to start such a program, looking at it as a pilot program that can be run for several months and then evaluated to see if it should continue.
There will be two open houses held on the proposed increase, one from 1-3 p.m. today and one from 8-10 a.m. Thursday, both at City Hall.
Mehmert expects a bill on the increase to be introduced at the City Council meeting June 1. At the June 15 meeting, a public hearing likely will be held before a vote is taken.