Chaska council backs suburban transit opt‑outs, urges legislators to preserve Southwest Transit

During the consent portion of its meeting, the City of Chaska council drew attention to and approved a resolution supporting suburban transit providers and the continued use of local opt‑outs that fund operators such as Southwest Transit.

Council members described the opt‑out arrangement as a local joint powers model between Chaska, Eden Prairie and Chanhassen that has allowed suburban agencies to provide services beyond what regional operators typically deliver, including micro‑transit, event buses and service to employment centers. Speakers warned that eliminating opt‑outs could reallocate local transit funding to Metro Transit programs that do not provide the same locally tailored services.

Council members asked staff to consider posting guidance for residents about contacting state legislators and noted the regional funding sources that support transit services in suburban communities, including regional sales tax and motor vehicle sales tax. Representatives said the Chaska seat on the Southwest Transit board rotates among member cities and that municipal oversight has helped the agency run targeted services for the community.

The resolution was included in the consent agenda approved by the council. Members encouraged residents to contact state legislators as possible policy proposals materialize. Council did not adopt local regulatory changes at the meeting; the action was a statement of support and an instruction to continue advocacy on the issue.