Thunder Bay Transit rates will remain frozen through the calendar year.
After a spirited debate amongst the council that lasted a few hours Wednesday, the elected body voted 10-2 in favour of the move which will add $67,900 to the 2021 budget.
Current River Ward Councillor Andrew Foulds had put a motion on the floor looking to adopt a pilot project for fare free transit one day a month starting in March at a cost of $115,000.
McKellar Ward Councillor Brian Hamilton felt the motion was a nice gesture but a more targeted approach is needed.
“I have a hard time believing that the timing will work out so well that you’ll be able to go grocery shopping or go see your doctor on fare free transit day,” Hamilton said. “I think it might be better to look at a program that’ll help more people in a targeted way.”
Foulds feels the measure would help Thunder Bayers.
“A free day doesn’t penalize anyone! I would argue those who don’t traditionally use transit may by encouraged to try it,” stressed Foulds.
Neebing Ward Councillor Cody Fraser felt the original measure was a proactive approach.
“It sends a message that we’re looking at transit as a real equalizer in our community and it’s something that we can invest in to bridge the gap between the rich and poor,” noted Fraser. “It also goes to show that we’re taking initiative, we’re not sitting around and waiting for programs to trickle down from the federal government. I believe it’s something that is worthwhile.”
