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Local disability advocates urge support for Smart Bus millage renewal
Summary
John Waterman, founder of nonprofit PEAK, brought two program participants to the council and asked policymakers to support an August millage renewal that would preserve the Smart Bus service local residents with disabilities rely on for work, shopping and independence.
John Waterman, executive director and founder of the nonprofit PEAK, told the City Council on June 16 that the Smart Bus system is vital to independence for local residents with disabilities and urged support for an August millage renewal.
Waterman introduced two program participants — Desmond Thompson and Kimita Jones — and described the travel-training work PEAK provides to help people ride buses independently. Waterman said the millage renewal will not raise taxes but is necessary to preserve the Smart Bus. He warned that if the millage fails, service reductions could prevent people who rely on transit from living independently or getting to work.
Kimita Jones, who identified herself as a travel trainer, described teaching others to ride the bus and confirmed participants use the Smart Bus. A council member and other officials acknowledged the testimony and noted the upcoming renewal.
Why it matters: the Smart Bus service supports residents with disabilities and low-income riders. A failed millage could reduce mobility options, with practical consequences for employment, housing and daily living.
What’s next: the transcript notes an August millage election; the council did not take a formal vote on a city-level endorsement during the meeting. Advocacy and public-education efforts are implied next steps.
