Morgan County approves resolution to apply for federal transit funding for Morgan County Connect
May 19, 2026 | Morgan County, Indiana
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Morgan County commissioners on May 18 voted 3–0 to approve a resolution authorizing an application for federal transit funds under sections 5311 and 5339 of the Federal Transit Act to support Morgan County Connect. The resolution clears the way for the county’s public transportation provider to seek INDOT/FTA operating and capital assistance.
Stacy Wear introduced the request and Mort, speaking for Morgan County Connect, said the service logged 68,534 miles and 6,947 passenger trips between January and April. Mort said the system serves about 220 regular riders, added 41 new riders during that period and offers free rides to people 60 and older. “We are the only public transportation agency in Morgan County,” Mort said, and noted rides include medical trips, grocery and laundry runs, and trips to work.
Commissioners asked about staffing and operations; Mort said drivers are paid (starting at $15 an hour) and include retired people who supplement staffing. Board members said expanding hours to evenings or weekends would require more data and funding. The resolution authorizes the county to submit the grant application required by INDOT/FTA so Morgan County Connect can receive 5311/5339 funds; one commissioner noted the county must formally approve the application before funds can be accepted.
Mike Kersh moved to approve the resolution and a second was recorded. The motion carried by voice vote 3–0. Staff noted the application is a prerequisite to receiving federal/state transit dollars and that additional steps will be required if the grant is awarded.
The board’s approval does not itself commit county matching funds beyond any future appropriation the council must approve; officials said grant acceptance and any required matching appropriations will be addressed in later proceedings.
Stacy Wear introduced the request and Mort, speaking for Morgan County Connect, said the service logged 68,534 miles and 6,947 passenger trips between January and April. Mort said the system serves about 220 regular riders, added 41 new riders during that period and offers free rides to people 60 and older. “We are the only public transportation agency in Morgan County,” Mort said, and noted rides include medical trips, grocery and laundry runs, and trips to work.
Commissioners asked about staffing and operations; Mort said drivers are paid (starting at $15 an hour) and include retired people who supplement staffing. Board members said expanding hours to evenings or weekends would require more data and funding. The resolution authorizes the county to submit the grant application required by INDOT/FTA so Morgan County Connect can receive 5311/5339 funds; one commissioner noted the county must formally approve the application before funds can be accepted.
Mike Kersh moved to approve the resolution and a second was recorded. The motion carried by voice vote 3–0. Staff noted the application is a prerequisite to receiving federal/state transit dollars and that additional steps will be required if the grant is awarded.
The board’s approval does not itself commit county matching funds beyond any future appropriation the council must approve; officials said grant acceptance and any required matching appropriations will be addressed in later proceedings.
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