We have had a number of callers asking the same question. Is it a free ride?
Sunset Empire Transportation District and Clatsop Community College have entered into an agreement that allows students and staff to ride the bus fare-free. That doesn't mean somebody isn't paying the tab. A member of the transit board called in this morning and offered that the college is paying the expenses involved. That means the College is paying for every single registered student, every staff member and every member of the faculty. Whether they actually ride the bus or not. SETD Director Cindy Howe told us that each term the college sends a print out showing every eligible person and then the College is billed a bulk rate. She did not say how the rate is figured.
For the College this means they don't spend money, even if they could figure out how, to build more parking lots, or a parking structure.
For the transit district it means increased cash flow and the possibility of increased ridership.
There is nothing to say that every student and worker and instructor and administrator will ever step on a bus. At least the option is available.
Students I can live with, but you can't tell me it is neccessary for teachers and administrators. I drive to my job very day and my employer doesn't foot the bill. THIS IS AN OUTRAGE.....
ReplyDeleteAnyhting said, Tom, about factoring in that SET "Free Ride" cost into tuition costs since they are doing a hypothetical head count at the beginning of the school year?
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