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Committee adopts updated senior transit rider policy after staff clarifies denial procedures
Summary
Park and Recreation committee approved revisions to the senior transit rider policy clarifying when rides may be denied and inclusion guidance for service animals and weapons policy, after staff training and review with legal counsel and state transportation officials.
The New London Park and Recreation Committee approved updates to the senior transit rider policy that clarify how drivers should handle ride denials, interactions with riders who have service animals, and the no-weapons policy.
Staff said the revisions followed a recent incident in which drivers were uncomfortable transporting a passenger because of suspected bed bugs. Ginger told the committee she consulted the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Federal Transit Administration guidance and trained drivers on the appropriate steps for assessing and, when necessary, denying a ride.
Under the updated policy, drivers will not ask riders to prove a disability but may ask what assistance the rider needs to provide the service. Staff also added clearer steps for denying rides and guidance for handling service animals; the policy retains the city's no-weapons rule for transit vehicles. City attorney Steckbauer and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation reviewed the updated language, staff said.
Committee member Bernie moved approval of the policy updates; Committee member John Fashay seconded. The motion carried by voice vote.
Staff said they will implement the updated procedures in driver training and continue to monitor compliance.
