RT board backs off from proposal to end monthly paratransit passes

Facing sharp public criticism, Sacramento Regional Transit District officials backed away from a revenue-increasing proposal that would have affected bus- and light-rail riders of all stripes.

The district is proposing its first fare increase in more than six years to make up for a growing deficit that’s projected at $2.34 million next year. RT staff has proposed raising general fares by 20 percent, with corresponding increases to fares for students, seniors and the disabled.

At the RT Board of Directors meeting Monday evening, person after person focused their criticism on two proposals: a 40 percent rise in the cost of the senior/disabled monthly sticker and elimination of the $125 monthly pass for paratransit riders.

“I’m not sure what blackhearted consultant or staffer made this proposal,” said Tamie Dramer, director of Organize Sacramento and one of 20 people who addressed the board. “But to take this away, this lifeline that gets people to the grocery store, that gets people to their medical appointments, RT must find another way.”

Some board members agreed and spoke out against general fare increases. Others suggested making them incremental. “The term ‘blackhearted’ was used, and I happen to agree with that,” said board member and Elk Grove City Councilman Pat Hume. “I don’t support eliminating the monthly pass. I realize it’s a loss leader, but it’s a loss leader we gotta take.”

RT will hold five public meetings in February to discuss other options for plugging the system’s growing deficit, which could include tiered rate increases or a ballot measure that’s being discussed. But if fare increases aren’t adopted, board members said Monday, RT could face bankruptcy.

“We have to find a way to make RT sustainable,” board member and Sacramento City Councilman Steve Hansen told SN&R after the meeting.