Board reinstates senior‑transportation funding for 2026 and asks for plan to reduce per‑ride cost

The board reconsidered a prior decision to remove Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership (CAP LP) rural senior transportation from the proposed 2026 budget after residents raised concerns during the Truth in Taxation hearing.

Commissioners and CAP LP representatives discussed the program’s importance for rural seniors needing access to medical appointments, dialysis and social services. CAP LP said it is merging operations with REACH and that merger should increase ridership and program efficiency. Commissioners and CAP LP staff also identified volunteer driver stipends and partnership opportunities as strategies to lower the program’s current per‑ride costs.

Following discussion, the board moved to reinstate the requested 2026 funding (the requested figure was discussed in the meeting materials and during discussion as approximately in the low‑to‑mid $40,000 range), and approved taking the 2026 allocation from county reserves as a one‑year action while CAP LP and REACH produce a short‑term plan and longer‑term options for 2027 budget considerations. The motion passed by voice vote.