A special election on November 5^th is right around the corner and one local entity is hoping voters will approve its millage proposal to keep their operation going.

The Mecosta Osceola Transit Authority is asking voters to approve their millage proposal of a .5 mill to continue its transportation operations.

 

Last May, MOTA ended their partnership with the Hope Network, that in turn, reduced state and federal funding to continue providing its services for those who need it.

 

Last year, MOTA provided over 49,000 rides to people in both Mecosta and Osceola Counties which translates to 196 rides per day.

 

Executive Director Mike Tillman says if this isn't passed MOTA will have to shutdown on November 8^th. “We will have to close our doors because we won't have enough funding for operations.” Tillman said.

 

However if it is passed, Tillman says MOTA will have the ability to increase hours of operation and lower fares for passengers. “Our hours of operations will extend to Saturday and Sunday, the millage will also allow us to lower full rate fares from $5.00 to $2.00, lower senior and disabled fares from $2.50 to $1.00 and seniors 80 years and over ride for free.”Tillman added. 

 

So how much would this cost residents in Mecosta and Osceola Counties?

If your home value is $100,000, a .5 mill would cost you $25.00 a year OR .07 cents a day.

If your home value to $200,000, a .5 mill would cost you $50.00 a year or .14 cents a day.