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Berkeley City Council OKs one‑year transit contract with Smart, secures $44,503 in credits
Summary
The council on July 7 approved M54‑25, a one‑year contract authorizing the mayor to execute an agreement with Smart for FY2026 public transportation services; the city will receive $14,221 in municipal credits and $30,282 in community credits to support a senior transportation program.
The Berkeley City Council on July 7 approved a one‑year contract with Smart to provide public transportation services for the 2025–26 fiscal year. The motion (M54‑25) authorizes the mayor to execute a contract covering the period 07/01/2025 to 06/30/2026. Recreation Superintendent Dan McMinn said the agreement secures $14,221 in municipal credits and $30,282 in community credits for the city’s senior transportation program.
McMinn, who introduced the item, described the program as serving residents over 50 and noted the city operates three wheelchair‑equipped vans. "We will be receiving $14,221 in municipal credits and $30,282 in community credits," he said, adding that riders generally come from Oxford Park Tower Senior Living Community. McMinn provided recent operating figures: vans logged 486 hours, drove 4,120 miles and transported 870 passengers in the last quarter.
The program requires riders to make appointments Monday–Friday between 9 a.m. and noon, with two days’ advance notice recommended. McMinn also noted the city has been approved for future funding through the Mobility for All (5310) grant to replace its oldest 2015, 13‑passenger diesel vehicle with a leased replacement from Smart in coming years.
Council members thanked McMinn and drivers for running the service. There was no public comment on the item. A roll call vote recorded affirmative responses and the motion passed.
Votes at a glance • M54‑25 (contract with Smart for FY2026 public transportation services): Moved by Mayor Pro Tem Gavin; supported by Council member Hennen; outcome: approved on roll call.
What this means The credits reduce the city’s net cost for operating senior rides and help keep wheelchair‑accessible service available. The city manager and parks and recreation staff will continue scheduling and program operations under the contract period. Future vehicle replacement is contingent on the Mobility for All (5310) grant and the vendor’s leasing timeline.
