Marshall County Older Adult Services Director Jackie Wright submitted to the Marshall County Commissioners the annual INDOT Transit application for 2021 funding.
The county acts as a pass-through agency for funding only so it must be approved by the commissioners annually.
Wright noted that the budget will be for an 18-month period of time instead of 12 months due to COVID-19.
“The funding is shifting from INDOT’s normal funding to CARES Act funding,” explained Wright. “That will be starting July 1, 2020 to Dec. 31, 2021.”
Some of the match funding may not be available as it’s provided by the state, but they will look into that. Several municipalities in the county donate funds to help with the match money which will assist a lot in the process.
Wright said operations have been ongoing as they are an essential service. Residents are transported to get groceries and for dialysis and cancer treatment appointments. They are operating at about 30 percent of the usual volume of clients.
In 2019, there were 27,000 trips serviced to Marshall County residents. Residents often go out of the county to meet with health specialists and other needs.
The commissioners unanimously approved a resolution that allows the organization to apply for the INDOT transit funds.
Wright announced to the commissioners that she will be retiring from the Marshall County Council on Aging after 33 years there. Janis Holiday will be taking over the position on July 1, 2020.
