the future.
James Jackson, ATU Assistant Business Agent for transportation, commented on the
unclear direction on the purpose of Realign and degree of opposition to it. Jackson
noted that attention and consideration for bus operator safety and retention needs to
be included with any ongoing discussion.
Brian Culbertson recommended that Realign considers a graduated service level based
on operator staffing with a directive to hire more operators, which would provide more
reliable service with schedules that work for operators now and then return to
frequencies needed for bus riders. Culbertson added that the District needs to increase
the bus operator salaries to meet the salary levels of neighboring transit operator
salaries. Culbertson noted that Transbay service needs to be reevaluated to better
manage the transit system's bus operator staffing.
Richard Marcantonio, Public Advocates, noted concern of staff’s Realign proposal
walking back the investment in runtime and recovery time and reducing it to just a
quarter of the resources proposed in December. Marcantonio commented that better
working conditions and adequate recovery time as well as bus operator retention are
matters required for continued consideration moving forward.
Emily Loper, Director, Bay Area Council, noted opposition to any recommendation of
further service cuts to Transbay service and advocated for service expansion.
John Courtney, Former President, ATU Local 265, noted that an effective Realign plan
starts with the bus operators, whose compensation and workplace needs must be
prioritized. Courtney added that it is from the workers that management can learn
about the job they do.
Andy Katz noted that the Realign proposal must be well thought out before being
brought to the Board for public discussion, as staff discussion will include extensive
input from the public and advocacy groups.
Anthony noted that Realign should ensure the hiring of additional operators, improve
bus speeds and not exclude Transbay service. Anthony added that bus lines 10, 18, and
57 are important bus lines and it would be unacceptable for them to drop below
15-minute frequency in service.
Connie McFarland, ATU Recording Secretary and Scheduler, noted that the problems
with bus operator retention is linked to inadequate runtimes and recovery times and
must be addressed. McFarland commented on the correlation between bus operator
satisfaction with bus passenger satisfaction.
Tyler Dragoni noted confusion whether the Line 99 would be discontinued and
replaced by line 10 on Mission Boulevard in Union City and commented that such a
change would be beneficial by freeing up operators and reducing transfers.
David Sorrell commented on the impact of the Transbay program on UC Berkeley
students and EasyPass riders. Sorrell noted that the plan could be implemented
incrementally, especially in the non-controversial options. Sorrell commented on the
need for scrutiny to the Transbay service is in the decision-making process.
MOTION: SHAW/YOUNG to receive the staff report to include looking at the lines that
have less than 70% on-time performance; looking at the frequency ensuring we have
frequency for high ridership lines and in our EPC areas; approve the Special Board
meeting on June 5th; approve the timeline and include a detailed report on operational
