City approves SMART Dial‑A‑Ride agreement covering up to $46,165 in subsidies

The Mount Clemens City Commission approved a purchase‑of‑service contract with SMART on July 6 that subsidizes Dial‑A‑Ride operating costs up to $46,165 for fiscal 2020–21.

Public Services Director Jeff Wood said the agreement outlines operating arrangements between SMART and the city’s Dial‑A‑Ride program and that the $46,165 represents municipal and community credits toward operating costs. “It’s a small increase from previous years,” Wood said when asked about the change.

Commissioners asked who would oversee the project; Wood said he oversees SMART partnerships and identified Carol Dolan as the supervisor who handles Dial‑A‑Ride operations. Commissioners also asked whether the fare structure had changed; Wood said the fares remain the same.

The contract requires reporting on ridership, transport of disabled passengers, and no‑show rates. Wood said staff have enforced penalties for no‑shows by charging a double fare in some cases.

The commission approved the contract and authorized the mayor and city clerk to execute it.

Next steps: city staff will continue monthly reporting to SMART and monitor no‑show rates and service metrics.