Residents urge Ojai to hire two trolley drivers to restore Sunday service; staff says two candidates in background checks

Multiple residents urged the Ojai City Council on June 24 to prioritize hiring two drivers for the Ojai Trolley to restore Sunday service and reduce missed runs. Speakers described the trolley as a vital mobility service for seniors, workers and market shoppers and said restoring Sunday service would support equity and local businesses.

Nut graf: Staff told the council that two driver candidates were actively going through the background and licensing process, additional interviews were underway and the city expected to restore Sunday trolley service as early as July if hiring and certification proceed without delay.

What staff said: The city’s human resources representative and the city manager said two recruitment candidates are in background checks and additional interviews were scheduled; staff noted federally required endorsements and commercial driver licenses (CDL) are prerequisites before drivers may be hired and operate trolleys. Staff also said the city plans to add advertising to trolleys to boost outreach and that some grants for transit will be added to the budget when finalized.

Public comment and equity points: Commenters emphasized the trolley’s role for elderly riders, people with disabilities, and residents who depend on transit to attend church, shop at the farmers market and access health care. Several urged immediate hires and a short‑term push to resume Sunday service as soon as the city can clear staff and licensing checks.

Ending: Staff said it will continue the recruitment and certification process and will update the council and public when hires are finalized and Sunday service can be reinstated.