Gates County approves FY27 transportation grant application to replace two transit vans

The Gates County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt a resolution to apply for the FY27 Community Transportation Program grant, approving a county grant application that asks for federal and state support for administrative costs and capital vehicle purchases.

Patrice Lassiter, speaking for the county transportation program, told the board the application requests $113,962 in administrative funds, which would cover “some of the administrative salaries and some of the office expenses.” Lassiter said the capital request is for two replacement vehicles: “one is a raised roof van with a lift…is $110,000, and the one without a lift is $95,000,” plus lettering costs for both vehicles.

The application also seeks $60,000 under the enhanced transportation program for seniors and persons with disabilities; Lassiter said the county’s matching share for that $60,000 would be $30,000 and that the match would come from road funds designated for elderly and disabled transportation assistance. She summarized the grant’s cost-share formula: “They pay 80% federal, 10% state, and 10% local.”

Board members asked staff questions about fleet size and timing. Lassiter said the transportation fleet currently includes nine vehicles and 11 drivers; she explained that vehicle replacement is scheduled after vehicles reach life‑expectancy or high mileage from rural service. Commissioners also noted that two other replacement vehicles were already in the budget from prior fiscal years, and that the FY27 request would add two more vehicles in a later replacement cycle.

The resolution was adopted by roll call of hands at the close of the public hearing; the board recorded a unanimous vote of five in favor. Board Chair Emily Truman opened the public hearing and closed it before the motion to adopt was called.

Why it matters: the grant, if awarded, reduces the county’s capital outlay by covering the majority of vehicle costs and preserves local operating funds for matching share and ongoing service. The county will still be required to provide the stated local matches and follow grant reporting requirements if the award is made.

The board did not provide a specific timeline for vehicle delivery beyond noting the replacements are planned for FY27 and that procurement schedules depend on grant award timing and vehicle lead times.

The board’s adoption of the application directs county staff to submit the FY27 Community Transportation Program application with the amounts and match sources presented in the hearing.