As of September 1st, the Disabled Transportation Society will have a new owner. After months of talks, the city agreed to take over operations from the society.
“This means that the riders who depend on that service will have a much more dependable service going forward and it should mean little or no interruption for people who rely on this service day to day,” said Mayor Bill Given.
On May 29th, DTS put out a statement saying it would be scaling back services because of a lack of funding and support from the city. It stated that multiple requests for adequate funding to effectively run the service had been met “with resistance and hostility.”
Since then, the city had been keeping its funding for DTS going on a month by month basis until an agreement could be reached. Given said he agreed with DTS’ decision to hand over the reins.
“I think in the end the DTS society acknowledged that the service had grown just too big for even a very committed group of volunteers like they are and I think this offers the best opportunity for everybody moving forward.”
DTS Board Member Karen Bainbridge said she is glad both DTS and the city could come to an agreement.
“We are pleased the City has agreed to continue to support the important work of helping our clients get to and from work, medical appointments, and recreation activities.”
Given said those who use the service will be hearing from the city and DTS officials over the next month in order to make the transition as smooth as possible.