Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transit Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Sandy Oaks weighs withdrawing from VIA transit as council hears options; $60,000 annual tax and $2.4M obligation discussed
Summary
Council members and residents discussed VIA transit service options and whether to withdraw from the MTA sales‑tax arrangement that sends roughly $59–60,000 a year to VIA; council asked VIA to return on Aug. 14 with service proposals and asked staff to clarify the debt calculation cited as roughly $2.4 million.
Council members and residents debated the value Sandy Oaks receives from its participation in the VIA metropolitan transit authority during a long discussion of Item 7A on July 24. Mr. Chris Kvassos urged withdrawal, saying the city has been "paying for service we're not receiving."
Staff said annual sales‑tax receipts that flow to VIA are about $59,000–$60,000. Representatives explained VIA has proposed alternatives including Alamo Regional Transit (ART), a call‑in 24‑hour service with fares starting at $2 for local trips, and VIA Link, a demand‑response option that may provide door‑to‑door service; specifics will be presented on Aug. 14. Council members and the public questioned likely local take‑up, marketing and accessibility of the services.
Council also discussed the long‑term debt consequence of withdrawal: staff cited an estimated outstanding obligation of roughly $2.4 million connected to the MTA tax, and cautioned that withdrawing would not eliminate the city’s share of any debt already issued. Council directed staff to obtain written clarifications from VIA and the county controller on the debt estimate, collection mechanics, and how an election or withdrawal would affect the city’s obligations before any formal action or election order.
Mayor Martinez and other council members emphasized the need to hear VIA’s full presentation, assess local demand for on‑demand service options, and verify the debt math before deciding whether to pursue withdrawal or place a measure on a ballot.
