By JONATHON HOWARD
A DECISION over whether to scrap the current Noosa Council Cab Service and Boreen Point to Tewantin Flexilink service has once again stalled after councillors voted down a recommendation to increase the service fares.
The Council Cab Service and Flexilink Service provide a valuable means of affordable transport to the elderly and those with mobility issues for free or for around $2 each way.
Noosa Council has been looking at ways of remodelling the service since March, but has been unable to reach a final decision.
Noosa Council staff had submitted a recommendation that councillors discontinue both services, establish a new partnership with ComLink and adopt new eligibility criteria for passengers.
However, during the council’s final general committee meeting for 2015, on Monday 15 December, Councillor Bob Abbot said he was “unsatisfied” with the recommendations and felt the service required greater consideration for people doing it tough.
“I do not approve of this motion on principle,” he said.
“What we’re proposing is that the service, to those who cannot afford transport locally, jumps from $4 return in a taxi to about $20 for the same service.
“In fact it could cost them up to $60 per week to afford transport – I’m completely opposed to this motion and I want it thrown out.”
Cr Abbot said the council could do better.
“What I see is an opportunity to let the current structure continue and for councillors to work towards a better system that assists those who need affordable transport,” he said.
“We currently have a cab service in place that’s not over budgeted and I think we can come up with a better solution.”
Cr Frank Pardon said he agreed with Cr Abbot and suggested the use of a new council bus route, which could act as a replacement pick-up and drop-off service.
Councillors were informed they could continue the current service, which was established by the previous Sunshine Coast Council, on a monthly rolling contract.
The current taxi service was within budget and does not require additional funds.
Councillors will cast a final vote against the proposed restructure during its ordinary meeting at 6pm tonight (Thursday 18 December).
HAVE YOUR SAY: What ideas could you suggest to help people move more freely throughout Noosa? Send your comments and letters to newsdesk@noosatoday.net.au
