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Residents urge Hillsborough delegation to block legislation that would dissolve HEART
Summary
Multiple speakers during public comment urged commissioners and state lawmakers to oppose proposed legislation to dissolve the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HEART), warning loss of services would hurt seniors, people with disabilities and unincorporated residents.
Several residents and advocates used the public comment period of the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners' Oct. 15 meeting to urge protection of regional transit and to oppose proposed legislation that would dissolve the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HEART).
A speaker representing local blind‑advocacy organizations read a draft resolution calling on the Florida legislature to reject any measure to dismantle HEART and to prioritize investment and collaboration with local stakeholders to strengthen regional transit. Multiple speakers described personal dependence on HEART services: Mary Schock, a licensed clinical social worker who said she lost her eyesight in 1997, recounted relying on paratransit and fixed‑route services for daily needs; Marion Guizdala, who serves on the HEART ADA Accessibility Committee, described using public transit for essential trips, including commuting to medical appointments and work.
Speakers said dissolving HEART would reduce service area and paratransit options, displace residents who depend on transit, and increase pressure on housing and social services. Commissioners did not take formal action on state legislation at the meeting; the comments were entered into the public record and advocates said they will continue outreach to the county delegation.
The meeting also included other public commenters raising separate local concerns. One speaker, Denise Herndon, alleged problems with a government-issued device and made several claims about phone manipulation and local property records that were not addressed by staff during the meeting.
Next steps: Advocates asked the board and the Hillsborough legislative delegation to oppose any dissolution proposals and to support investment in HEART and HEART Plus paratransit services.
