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Laguna Niguel council adopts consent item; staff outlines senior mobility program expansion
Summary
The Laguna Niguel City Council unanimously approved Item 5 on the consent calendar and councilmembers and staff described the city's senior transportation program (Senior Wheels), its funding source (OCTA Measure M2), eligibility, and recent ridership growth.
The Laguna Niguel City Council voted unanimously, 5-0, to approve the balance of the consent calendar including Item 5, which council members pulled for discussion and staff comment. The motion to approve the balance of the consent calendar was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Jean Johns and seconded by Council Member Otto; the vote was recorded as unanimous.
City parks and recreation staff provided an overview of the city's senior transportation program, known as Senior Wheels, noting its funding, eligibility and recent ridership increases. Director Harmon said the service is supported by Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Measure M2 funds and is provided through a city contract (formerly with California Yellow Cab, now OCY Management). He described the service as round-trip transportation for Laguna Niguel residents age 60 and older who are unable to drive, for trips to the Sea Country Senior and Community Center, nonemergency medical appointments (including the VA in Long Beach) and other destinations within Laguna Niguel.
Director Harmon said applications can be obtained online or in person at the Sea Country Senior and Community Center and that staff will assist residents with the application process. Council Member Otto and Council Member Winstead praised staff for promoting the program, noting ridership increased from 117 to about 326 rides per month on average and that usage is trending upward this year.
Action details: the council approved the consent calendar balance and adopted Item 5 by voice vote (5-0). No amendments or conditions were recorded in the meeting minutes.
Why it matters: Council members said the program addresses mobility for older residents who cannot drive and that rising ridership suggests increased need for the city to monitor capacity and funding.
Members of the public who asked about the program were directed to contact Sea Country Senior and Community Center for applications and eligibility questions.
