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Council reviews donated senior van plan: $58,000 gift would launch limited curb‑to‑curb service in Hudson
Summary
The Hudson Community Foundation offered a $58,000 donation to purchase a passenger van for a city-run senior transportation program. Staff proposed a three-day-per-week curb-to-curb service for residents 65+ within a six-mile radius, with estimated operating costs of about $11,000 (partial 2026), $34,000 in 2027 and roughly $200,000 over five years.
Council heard a proposal to accept a $58,000 donation from the Hudson Community Foundation to purchase a passenger van and launch a city-operated senior transportation service.
Sheridan (city staff) presented the proposed program parameters: service available to Hudson residents 65 and older who can ambulate independently (the vehicle would not be wheelchair-accessible), trips scheduled at least two weeks in advance, a recommended six-mile radius from the 303/91 intersection to cover nearby medical and commercial destinations, and an initial pilot of three days per week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday).
On costs, staff said a partial 2026 start would carry around $11,000 in operating expenses for the remainder of the year, with first full-year operating costs estimated at about $34,000 in 2027 and roughly $200,000 over five years. The city would own and operate the van, equip it, and handle maintenance and insurance; staff proposed using excess carryover in the general fund for initial operations and pursuing a Summit County CDBG grant to support driver salaries in a subsequent year.
Staff recommended annual driver background checks and physicals and two part-time drivers to ensure backup coverage. Hudson Senior Network representatives explained local demand and emphasized seniors’ preference for a familiar municipal driver over county or ride-hail alternatives.
Council asked follow-ups about Metro SCAT (county paratransit) alternatives, vehicle scheduling logistics, and reliability concerns; staff agreed to provide additional detail and to attach operational guidelines before formal readings.
