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Veteran and others cite breakdown in Augusta ADA paratransit service; commission directs administrator to seek solutions
Summary
A blind veteran and other speakers told the public services committee that paratransit service quality and scheduling have deteriorated; the committee directed Administrator Allen to meet with Transit Director Doherty and the contractor and return with recommendations at the next committee cycle.
Richard Scuse (recorded as Richard Schneesch in the record), a visually impaired U.S. Army veteran, told the public services committee that Augusta’s ADA paratransit service has declined since it moved from a city‑run operation to a private contractor. He said scheduling windows lengthened from 24 hours to one to two weeks, that callers are told the system is “booked up,” and that riders—many on fixed incomes—must sometimes use rideshare services at their own cost.
Director Doherty, who oversees Transit, acknowledged vehicle and staffing shortages and said vehicles out of service and driver absences have reduced capacity. Cornell Mack, introduced as the contractor’s general manager, said the operation is seasonal and that current demand is peaking; he said the contractor was staffing up but that the fleet size (seven vehicles in operation) constrained service. Doherty and Mack both described efforts to rotate newer vehicles and recruit staff but said vehicle availability remained a key constraint.
Commissioners and staff discussed several interim options raised during the discussion, including revived voucher programs (Lyft/Uber vouchers), coordination with nonprofits such as United Way, and outreach to veteran service organizations (DAV) to help eligible riders. Interim Transit Director Doherty said vouchers and partnerships were options she would explore.
Commissioner Scott moved — and Commissioner Slendak seconded — to direct Administrator Allen to meet with Director Doherty and the contractor and return to the committee with a recommendation at the next committee cycle. The motion passed unanimously. Administrator Allen said the report would look at vehicle counts, contract performance, use of vouchers or nonprofit partners, and funding options, including federal grants and local match requirements.
No immediate contract termination or procurement action was taken at the meeting. Commissioners emphasized the need for a practical near‑term plan for riders with critical needs, and several suggested the committee should consider additional funding if staffing or vehicles required county dollars.
