Council approves Stayner busing contract

Clearview council approved a six-month contract with Sinton Bus Lines Monday for a Stayner bus that will connect with transit in Wasaga Beach.

CAO Steve Sage said the exact route and bus stops would be finalized on Oct. 31. He is negotiating with Wasaga Beach regarding potential routing into the Wasaga Sands subdivision.

The six-month trial will begin on Nov. 21. According to the agreement, Clearview will pay $45.23 per hour of operation and $40 per day for the rental of the bus. Sage said Sinton is loaning the township a bus for the trial period but they are not interested in renting long-term.

In the 2016 budget, council approved $82,500 for a six-month bus service and is considering adding $120,000 to the 2017 budget for the purchase of a bus, should council decide to continue the transit service after the six-month trial.

The bus can be purchased with money from the gas tax refund program but the money can’t be used for the operation of the transit system, said Sage.

Bus fare will be $2 but people will be able to ride for free during the first two weeks of operation.