Drafter
Clerk 06/09/2009
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A MOTION requesting the transit division to report on cost-saving and revenue-generating entrepreneurial activities.
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WHEREAS, the slowing regional economy is expected to reduce King County Metro Transit's 2010 projected revenues by $100 million and create a $168 million budget gap in the next biennium, and
WHEREAS, King County is responding to its current and projected transit budget gaps with a combination of expenditure reductions, program efficiencies and fare increases while preparing for transit service reductions and seeking authorization for additional, ongoing revenue sources, and
WHEREAS, transit service reductions needed to close budget gaps could be minimized by cost-cutting and entrepreneurial actions without compromising rider safety, comfort and access, an
WHEREAS, the transit division has been resourceful in leveraging its resources with initiatives such as Transit Now partnership service, employer Flex Pass programs and Adopt-a-Stop volunteer bus zone cleaning, and
WHEREAS, King County is home to many innovative, entrepreneurial individuals, businesses and institutions capable of synergistic efforts such as Metro's recent collaboration with the University of Washington graduate students who developed the realtime bus arrival information website One Bus Away, and
WHEREAS, King County Metro Transit should seek to further harness the ingenuity of its citizens and businesses and should explore potential revenue sources and cost saving strategies such as technology partnerships, leased use of its passenger facilities by private transportation providers and vendors, sponsorships and expanded advertising opportunities, and increasing maintenance and service partnerships, and
WHEREAS continued innovation and entrepreneurial thinking will be an essential element as King County Metro addresses its long-term funding needs;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT MOVED by the Council of King County:
The King County council requests the executive to transmit a report by August 1,
2009, on the range of current and planned transit division strategies to minimize service cuts by reducing costs, generating revenue and leveraging resources through partnerships.