The Statesboro Mayor and Council approved a memorandum of understanding Sept. 2 that authorizes partner organizations to purchase and distribute transit vouchers to clients to ride the city bus system.

Staff explanation: Staff member Smith explained the MOU will let partners such as Habitat and other service providers buy vouchers so the people they serve can use the transit system. Smith said the public fare is $1 but that the actual cost per ride is about $5; subsidies and funding through Coastal Regional mechanisms and other partners reduce the passenger charge.

Why it matters: The MOU is intended to expand access to transportation for clients served by partner nonprofits, enabling trips for work, appointments and other needs. Staff said the program leverages subsidies and partner funding to make transit more affordable for riders who rely on voucher assistance.

Council action: The council approved the MOU during the meeting; staff recommended approval and said partners already include organizations that previously worked with the city to purchase or distribute vouchers.

Implementation: Staff did not provide a detailed disbursement schedule in the hearing; the MOU provides the legal framework for partners to purchase vouchers and work with the transit system going forward.