Carroll County Commissioners met with Carroll County Transit Director Sonja Trbovich at their Aug. 7 meeting to discuss transit’s finances. Trbovich presented her July report, noting 39,243 service miles, 1,970 passenger trips, and seven ride denials — up 7.12% from June. Compared to July 2024, trips were down by 211, possibly due to a July 1 fare increase.
Trbovich outlined significant funding reductions for State Fiscal Year 2026, with $77,155 less in federal and state operating support than in 2025. Additionally, the loss of a contract with the Council on Aging — previously worth $184,891 — has worsened budget challenges. Although the council continues to pay general public rates, the revenue is substantially lower.
To offset losses, Trbovich has frozen raises except for probationary employees and cut costs across all budget lines. Proposed cuts to operating hours or driver schedules offer only modest savings and may impact service. “I lowered everything I possibly could and am trying everything to reduce expenses, however, it will not be enough,” said Trbovich.
Commissioner Robert Wirkner suggested Trbovich explore alternative revenue, such as advertising on vehicles or fences. Commissioner Donald Leggett II said the advertiser is the one who pays for the banners, and once they are made, they will not have that expense the following year.
A public hearing is scheduled for Aug. 28, with notices to run in newspapers and on social media to reach all demographics. Trbovich emphasized that the funding shortfall is not due to poor performance but is part of broader statewide transit funding issues. “I think what you are trying to do is take a little bit away now so there doesn't have to be major cuts at the end,” said Modranski. Trbovich and commissioners will both try to think of more ideas to help with the problem.
In an unrelated matter, as part of Emergency Management Agency Awareness Month, Carroll County officials recognized the continuous efforts of Emergency Management Agency Director Tom Cottis and Deputy Director Dustin Lucas. Both are on call 24/7 and play vital roles in responding to emergencies across the county, often without public recognition.
Officials also acknowledged the county’s hazmat team, which operates on a limited budget and typically steps in when hazardous material spills or emergencies occur. Their work is crucial but rarely noticed unless a major incident arises.
In other business, commissioners:
— HEARD Deputy Dog Warden Merle Long give his monthly report for July, which stated 21 dogs were impounded, 11 were adopted out, 11 were redeemed by owners, 0 were euthanized, five citations for no license and three citations for running at large.
— PAID the bills of $269,976.14.
— HEARD this Aug. 7 meeting was supposed to be the first live on YouTube, but there is a policy in place where there has to be a certain amount of time until they can go live. The Aug. 11 meeting should be the first meeting live on YouTube and Facebook both.
— HEARD commissioners review the policy manual and discuss some changes regarding vacation time and time off.
