I am writing in regards to proposed amendment #21 to HB 1001, which asks for a 17.7 percent cut in the Public Mass Transportation Fund (PMTF). If this decrease of 17.7 percent trickles down to each PMTF recipient, it would specifically affect Kosciusko Area Bus Service (KABS) by a decrease of $16,700 PMTF money. This $16,700 would draw down matching Federal Funds, causing a total revenue decrease of $33,400.
KABS provides an absolutely necessary service to this county. I personally use KABS to get to and from work, medical appointments, school, shopping and everything else one needs to do in life. It is my only form of transportation.
This decreased revenue translates into the loss of 6,700 rides. KABS would have to cut their annual service by an entire route (driver, fuel, maintenance) if this proposed amendment goes through.
Now is not the time to cut PMTF. If we as a state/nation are supposed to be going green and servicing more of the masses fairly, PMTF should actually be increased.
Please consider the citizens of Kosciusko County.
Feel free to contact me at 574-306-2056(h) or 978-496-5748(c) or by email at klg82@live.com Thank you for taking the time to read this.
