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Frederick approves change to VIA billing, authorizes reimbursement deal with Firestone
Summary
The Board approved a reimbursement agreement with Firestone and a contract change for VIA Transportation services that shifts Frederick’s payment to a per-rider fee, aiming for greater transparency and potential cost savings while preserving services for low-income and youth riders.
The Town of Frederick approved a reimbursement agreement with neighboring Firestone and staff-recommended changes to how the town pays for VIA Transportation services, a move staff said will increase transparency and could lower overall costs.
Under the current arrangement Frederick, Firestone and DeCano pay a percentage split (40%/40%/20%) of the total VIA bill. Staff proposed moving Frederick to a fee structure based on actual ridership for Frederick riders (roughly $95–$100 per trip), which officials said provides clearer visibility into who uses the service and how much the town is paying for Frederick residents specifically. The proposed agreement also includes provisions to ensure youth and low-income trips remain supported.
Trustees and staff discussed regional coverage gaps, the experience of nearby programs such as Brighton’s microtransit pilot, and concerns about governance if one partner had indefinite control over the service. Staff said they secured drafting concessions so no single partner would have perpetual control and added notice provisions to allow an amicable separation if a different operator or structure better serves Frederick.
The board approved resolution 26R-09, authorizing the reimbursement agreement between Frederick and Firestone, by roll-call vote, 5–0. Staff said the change will be coordinated with Firestone and with VIA and that the town will continue to pursue grant opportunities to expand microtransit options and fill known service gaps.
