August 3, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Transportation, Orientation Top Council Agenda
DECATUR - The Decatur City Council moved to shore up public transportation, better manage city vehicles and held a review of city government rules, roles and responsibilities during its regular meeting Monday.
The Council voted 7-0 in favor of purchasing four new buses, the cost of which will be covered by American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Stimulus) funds. Public transit represents a vital resource for many residents who don’t have any other means of transportation to get to work, school or to accomplish other important daily tasks and this purchase will help to insure that reliable transport is available.
Last year there were more than 1 million total bus rides taken on Decatur Public Transit. The buses will be purchased for a price not to exceed $350,000 per bus.
In other business, the Council voted to purchase a fleet management software called “Faster” and held a council orientation session for both new and returning members.
The city’s current fleet maintenance software is not compatible with most new computer operating systems and has very poor support with the new software expected to better meet the vehicle management demands of city government. The software is expected to cost just more than $102,000.
During its orientation the council reviewed the roles of council members, the city manager and staff and was provided with a manual outlining each of the facets of city government. Four of the seven council members are serving a first term.
For more information contact Billy Tyus at 424-2753.