Council: Freebee contract finalized; cash handling and public notice to determine $2 rider start date

Village manager Ron Saunders told the council that contract negotiations with Freebee had concluded and that staff and legal counsel had exchanged final versions. "We do have a document that's ready to sign," Ron said, but he also told council there is a remaining question about how cash fares will be handled and counted.

Several public speakers and council members pushed for rapid implementation of the $2 rider fee the council had previously authorized. Sue Miller and public commenters said the fee represents lost revenue (roughly $8,000 per month) while the contract remained unsigned. Ron said the contract as drafted covers card payments and vendor‑purchased credits, but does not yet include a finalized cash‑collection mechanism; he said staff is working with Freebee to define a practical cash option and recommended giving customers adequate public notice before charging fares.

Council members discussed an August 1 target start date but emphasized the need for a clear cash‑handling plan and public outreach. Vice Mayor Mahoney and Council Member Gillis asked staff to return at a forthcoming special meeting with a plan for public notice, payment options for riders without credit cards (examples suggested included Venmo or Cash App credits), and operational details for collecting and remitting fares. The manager said August 1 appeared feasible if outstanding operational questions are resolved.

No final effective date was adopted at the July 7 meeting; the council asked staff to finalize the outstanding administrative details and return with a recommended implementation plan.