Board says it will prepare detailed response to FTA, plans November millage question
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Summary
Trustees agreed to compile documents and draft resolutions to answer an FTA letter, including signature-authority and internal-control updates, and discussed placing the Takata millage on the November ballot to secure long-term funding before the 2027 expiration.
An unidentified board member told trustees they will assemble a formal response to a recent Federal Transit Administration (FTA) letter and prepare several governance measures at the next meeting.
The speaker said the board needs ‘‘designation of signature authority, [an] updated board-approved authorizing resolution, an opinion of counsel,’’ and revised policies and procedures that show segregation of duties and internal controls. ‘‘I think we should take our time and do this right,’’ the speaker said, urging a deliberate process rather than a rushed reply.
Why it matters: The board framed these steps as necessary for compliance with FTA and for demonstrating financial controls to state and federal partners. The speaker said an updated financial plan will be required to show adequate revenues to operate transit service under existing contracts.
The board also discussed placing the Takata millage on the November regular-election ballot rather than a standalone special election. The unidentified speaker said the current millage expires in 2027 and that a November placement would save costs and allow a second attempt before expiration if needed. ‘‘That kind of sets our work plan for getting ready for this over the next few weeks or so,’’ the speaker said.
Board members asked staff to gather documentation and cost information tied to contracts and to consult with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and FTA about projections and assumptions underlying the financial plan. The presenter agreed to compile the requested contracts and make them available to trustees for review before the next meeting.
The meeting ended with a motion to enter closed session for legal consultation; the motion passed by roll call vote.
Next steps: Trustees said they will prepare draft resolutions and internal-control documentation for action at the next meeting and will provide copies of existing contracts and financials for board review.
