For Immediate Release July 22, 2021 Media Contact: Laura Koprowski, Deputy Chief Executive Officer lkoprowski@tarta.com Office: 419.245.5219 Mobile: 419.764.5951
TARTA Board Prepares for Historic Vote Today
Ballot Initiative Changes TARTA’s Local Funding and Expands Service Across Lucas County
WHAT: Today at the July 22nd meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA), trustees will make a historic vote to place a proposal on the fall ballot replacing TARTA’s current local funding structure with a sales tax and to include Lucas County as a new member of the transit authority. The Authority had previously attempted this four times over the past 11 years.
To consider placing this initiative on the fall ballot, TARTA was able to achieve a majority consent of its seven local government members on the resolution language. The six members who voted in favor of the TARTA resolution include Ottawa Hills, Rossford, Sylvania Township, Sylvania, Toledo and Waterville.
WHY: To financially meet the growing mobility needs of residents and businesses with a modern public transit system operating across Lucas County, the TARTA Board is seeking voter approval of a new local funding model and to include all of Lucas County into the Authority’s service area. TARTA is the last major Ohio public transit system to be funded solely by a property tax and to not offer countywide service.
About TARTA
TARTA provides a vital link in the Toledo metro area to jobs, education, health care and other destinations. It enables everyone in our community to have access to transportation regardless of their age, race, physical ability or economic background. TARTA is underway with exploring and introducing new initiatives and service options that will enhance convenience and customer experience while moving our region into the future of public transit.
