Secretary treasurer Adrian Johnson said the increase in transportation fees will create about $10,000 in additional revenue, which will partially offset inflationary increases.

He said a similar increase was approved last year.

“Modest annual increases, consistent with general inflation, help ensure fees increase in line with costs. Steady annual increases avoid large jumps in future years,” Johnson wrote in his report to the board.

Under the proposal, all riders would have to pay a $35 registration fee, the same as last year, which Johnson said “helps ensure only families that genuinely need regular transportation register.”

Here are the proposed increases:

Eligible ride (Catchment area school) $80 (current) $86 (proposed for 2024-25)

Eligible ride (Approved program of choice) $290 to $306

Courtesy ride (In catchment) $190 to $206

Courtesy ride (Out of catchment) $290 to $306

Courtesy rides are accommodated on scheduled routes if there is space on the bus.

Registration for transportation for next school year starts in April 2024. Families who are unable to afford the fees may apply for relief through the board’s hardship policy.

Johnson said in the 2022/23 fiscal year, the board collected about $230,000 in transportation fees, and spent about $2.4 million on transportation services.

The proposed increases are on the board’s agenda for their meeting on March 13.

by Pete McIntyre

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