Committee approves ADRC application for 2026 Section 5310 operating grant to support specialized transportation

The Richland County Community and Health Services standing committee voted to approve a resolution authorizing the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) to apply for and accept a 2026 Section 5310 operating grant to support specialized transportation services.

The director explained the Section 5310 grant (a federal program distributed through the state) helps fund the ADRC’s bus routes and wheelchair transportation that carry residents from Richland Center to neighboring communities for medical appointments, shopping and social activities. The director said the grant’s required match can be provided in cash or in‑kind and that the ADRC plans to use its state 8,521 specialized transportation funding and revenues from managed care organizations as the match; she said no additional county levy is required for this grant.

The director said the grant could provide up to about $33,000 in additional operating support for transportation. A committee member moved approval and the motion was seconded; the committee approved the resolution by voice vote with ayes recorded and no nays or abstentions noted in discussion.

The resolution will allow the ADRC to submit the competitive application for 2026 funding and accept the award if offered; committee members described the program as important for older adults and people with mobility needs in the county.