As part of League of Women Voters (LWV) Marion’s Voter Service and Advocacy Agenda for 2015-16, the League’s first monthly meeting will feature Marion’s community transportation services, including both met and unmet needs for residents of Marion County. The meeting, open to the public, will be held Thursday, September 17, 2015 at 6:00 p.m.. at the United Way Conference Room, 125 Executive Drive.
The program will explore ways to address the transportation barriers (unmet needs) that inhibit the productivity and quality of life of many local residents, especially those of low-income/poverty, the disabled, and the elderly. Officials say that a significant number of these barriers can result in a community’s loss of income/lower economic conditions, poorer general health, lower educational achievement, and often visible indications of low morale/hopelessness.
An informal panel of presenters will help lead the transportation discussion, including Jeff Marsh, Director of Marion Area Transit, who will talk about the services that the City’s buses provide. Additionally, six local agencies/community groups have been invited to do a 2 minute sharing of their experiences with transportation needs, facilities, barriers, etc. for the individuals they work with.
Information from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) on comprehensive community (county-wide) transportation planning will also be explained. Of all 88 Ohio counties, Marion County is one of only 10 counties that does not yet have a county-wide comprehensive community transportation plan. Lack of such a plan makes Marion County ineligible to apply for various federal grants that can help subsidize certain transportation services/facilities in the community.
As time permits, a brief Q & A will follow the presentations.
Marion’s League, now in its 65th year, is actively seeking new members. League is best known for its Voter Education and the unbiased information it provides the public on political issues and candidates at election times. The group is politically nonpartisan and encourages informed and active participation in government at all levels—local, state and national.
Membership in the League is open to all women and men who are citizens of voting age.
For information on becoming a member, or for more information about the September 17 meeting, call Jo Ann Radwin-Zimmerman, 740-389-5795 or [email protected].
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