pages: TransportationCommission/2007-10-17.pdf, 4
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TransportationCommission | 2007-10-17 | 4 | Mr. Ernest Sanchez, Ferry Manager, replied that the CPUC did not have any authority concerning the Golden Gate ferry service because they were a transit operator. The City's two ferry services contracted with two private operators (Blue & Gold and Harbor Bay Maritime) were regulated by the CPUC; that was the area of oversight by the CPUC. Chair Knox White noted that there were significant concerns regarding language changes associated with money, as well as consolidation of services into a regional body. He noted that the changes in the Board's makeup and distribution of monies was of more concern than disaster readiness. Ms. Trost noted that without the Prop 1-B money, she was concerned that the bridge tolls would have to be raised considerably. She would ask Senator Torlakson for further information. She noted that the Senate Rules Committee would confirm all of the Governor's appointees, which was another opportunity for the Transportation Commission and Senator Perata to ensure that Alameda's interests were represented. Open public hearing. Patrick Robles noted that he worked as a ferry deckhand, and added that both the ferry riders and the operators had little information about the changes that were occurring. He looked forward to receiving more direct information than what he had seen in the media. He wished to remind everyone that the ferry service was about people who depend on the ferries for safe passage to work or other activities. He was also concerned about the existing crew and other employees maintaining their positions. Janet Jones noted that she was a daily commuter on the ferry, and had been taken aback by this proposal. She was very pleased with the ferry and used it frequently. She noted that if there are any problems, the Coast Guard was available for disaster relief, and often rode alongside the passengers. She understood that the staff members were trained for disaster preparedness. She considered the ferry to be an economical, safe and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. She was concerned about the quality of service if the State were to take over its operation. She found BART and Muni to be unsatisfactory modes of transportation by comparison and did not see any reason to change the ferry operation. Mary Ellen Smith noted that she rode the Harbor Bay Ferry frequently, and was a very happy ferry rider. She inquired about the effects on the riders themselves, and whether there would be any fare increases. She would like to know where the money would go. Maxine Young noted that she rode the Harbor Bay Ferry, and in reading the legislation, did not see a commitment to run the transit system as an integral part of the Bay Area's transit system. She noted that the legislation generally addressed emergency situations. She was concerned that after the new agency took over, it may decide that Alameda did not need the ferry. Special Meeting of the Page 4 of 8 10/17/07 Transportation Commission | TransportationCommission/2007-10-17.pdf |