Commission presses Circuit transit partner for ridership and cost data as commissioners weigh $350,000 annual subsidy

Commissioners discussed the city’s ongoing participation in the Circuit microtransit service and questioned whether the program is delivering value near the $350,000 combined annual cost (city plus CRA). Several commissioners said they want Circuit representatives to appear before the commission with detailed metrics including cost per ride, rides versus riders, idle time, and advertising revenue — items the commissioners said were missing from the meeting packet.

Commissioner concerns focused on affordability and economics: one commissioner noted that at current operating costs the city would be spending a sizable taxpayer subsidy for each ride and suggested alternative short‑term responses such as ride vouchers if Circuit cannot lower its cost per ride. Supporters from the public, including regular riders and advocates for seniors, said Circuit provides essential door‑to‑door service that is invaluable for people with mobility constraints: one user described taking the service to grocery and medical appointments and urged the commission to preserve it.

Staff and several commissioners recommended negotiating with Circuit for improved advertising revenue, more visible stops and clearer performance metrics rather than terminating the service immediately. Commissioners agreed to ask Circuit and CRA representatives to return for a follow‑up conversation and to send more detailed ridership and financial information to the commission and the CRA.