Motion to keep GRT cash fare rates the same fails
Posted Nov 23, 2023 11:24:42 AM.
Last Updated Nov 23, 2023 11:24:45 AM.
A motion brought forward by Regional Councillor Chantel Huinink to keep cash rates for Grand River Transit (GRT) users at $3.75 has failed.
There are proposed changes in the 2024 budget that would see the cash fare rate for GRT users increase to $4 from $3.75.
The motion instead called for the monthly pass to increase from $92 to $99, instead of the proposed $96, and increase the Affordable Transit Program discount to 52 per cent.
The motion failed five to seven, with four councillors absent.
Huinink argued the motion would put less financial strain on those in the community who can only afford $3.75 per ride.
“I think there’s a huge gap between the $3.75 someone might pay on the once a week versus the $48 for the affordable transit pass or the $96 or the proposed $99 pass,” said Huinink.
Other proposed changes in the 2024 budget include increasing the monthly pass from $92 to $96, the summer pass to $163.20 from $156.40 and a new group pass for $12.
If council approves the changes in the budget next month, the fares will change beginning July 1 2024.
