Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Transportation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Transit director asks commission to put 0.1% sales‑tax increase on fall ballot to stabilize service
Summary
Transit staff asked the commission to adopt ballot language to replace the existing 0.2% transit sales tax with 0.3% to keep route frequency and fare‑free service stable amid rising costs; staff said the increase would be on the November ballot if the commission approves election language July 14.
Transit Director Felice Laverne told the commission staff will ask for authorization July 14 to place a sales‑tax question on the November ballot that would repeal and replace the existing 0.2% transit sales tax with 0.3%. Laverne said the change is intended to address rising transit operating costs and to preserve the city's fare‑free policy through 2029 if voters approve. "We would be asking you to repeal and replace the existing 0.2 sales tax with 0.3 to match rising transit costs," Laverne said.
Laverne said Lawrence's system provides roughly 7,700 trips per day and performs above national satisfaction averages; staff emphasized the measure would sustain, not expand, current service. Commissioners asked for additional financial detail and staff said earlier studies exist and a refreshed cost‑benefit analysis could be provided. The commission scheduled a discussion on next steps and election language for the July 14 meeting.
