A topic at this week's city council meeting was the renewal of the transit operational contract.

The city offers public/paratransit, Swift Transit, and Access transit to city residents as an accessible and affordable option for commuting. Transit is most often accessed by those without a personal vehicle, those who choose not to drive, and the senior population. 

Mitch Minken, General Manager of Infrastructure and Operations for the city provides some details on the history of Swift Transit.

"Swift Transit was launched in 2015 as a hybrid system which included a main route and a feeder or shuttle bus. In 2017 the feeder or shuttle bus was replaced with a second route to eliminate dispatch costs and increase efficiencies."

Minken adds that a school route was also developed to assist students in the city's core and increase ridership. 

Sask Abilities Swift Current branch has provided contract operational services for the city's access transit since 2006 and public transit since its launch in 2015. Sask Abilities' mission is to work with people with varying abilities to enhance their independence and participation through vocational, rehabilitation, and recreational services. 

Minken, provides details on the agreement previously held with Sask Abilities.

"The agreement with Sask Abilities to provide services for both the access and public transit system is based on the cost of the service plus an administration fee. The proposed contract is actually for five years effective 2021-2025."

Minken adds that the annual cost for 2021 was $425,008 GST excluded, with an increase of 1% per year on wages and benefits portion only. The operational contract is funded by the 2021 public transit operating budget fees and services of $431,540.

Sask Abilities once again indicated their desire to continue providing services, which was approved by the council.