R2023-13 Resolution Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Decatur and Decatur Public School District #61 Regarding High School Student Use and Transit Fares

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OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER DATE: February 6, 2023 TO: Honorable Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe and City Council Members FROM: Scott Wrighton, City Manager Jon Kindseth, Deputy City Manager Lacie Elzy, Transit Administrator SUBJECT: Resolution Authorizing Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Decatur and Decatur Public School District#61 Regarding Student Bus Fares RECOMMENDATION: The attached Resolution allows for the City of Decatur to execute an IGA with DPS 61 for a yearly payment for student fares. BACKGROUND: Currently there is a Youth Fare of$.80 for children ages 5 through 18. Decatur Public School District pays the youth fare to provide tickets to the high school students that allow them to ride the City buses to and from school. The Department of Transportation &Facilities proposes an intergovernmental agreement with Decatur Public School District that would allow all DPS 61 high school children to travel anytime on City of Decatur buses, with no restrictions, as long as they have a valid DPS 61 school ID. Bus drivers have had difficulty in the past with high school children trying to use the passes outside of school arrival and departure times. Allowing high school students autonomy to travel when they need it will begin to eliminate unnecessary barriers to transportation. This change would eliminate the ticket and fare system for all DPS61 high school students. The fare will instead be paid by DPS 61 through the IGA with a biannual payment. This change would simplify the fare structure making it easier for high school passengers, staff, and bus drivers. By eliminating the DPS 61 student ticket restrictions high school passengers may be encouraged to ride the bus for more than just trips to school.High school passengers will be able to use City transportation for access to extracurricular activities, employment,appointments,etc.The proposed change is projected to increase ridership and have no noticeable effect on transit revenues since DPS 61 will continue to pay for high school students to ride through the IGA.The change in fares is contingent upon both parties signing the attached IGA. POTENTIAL OBJECTIONS: Staff is not aware of objections. STAFF REFERENCE: Should the City Council have any questions, they may contact Jon Kindseth at 217.450.2323 or jkindseth(tu decaturil.gov, Lacie Elzy at 217.542.3559 or Lclzy(ddecatui-iL�gov BUDGET/TIME IMPLICATIONS: Authorizes the 1GA between City of Decatur and DPS 61 for high school student fare change, with no significant change in revenue.