Community Corner
Pierce Transit Approves Service Cuts, More Layoffs
On Monday, Pierce Transit's board voted to cut nearly 10 percent of the agency's workforce, in preparation for major service reductions this fall.
To prepare for major service reductions this fall, Pierce Transit is starting to make real cuts and set hard lines for the future of its riders and employees.
In a meeting on Monday, the Pierce Transit board voted to cut 84 staff positions, or about 10 percent of the transportation agency's workforce.
The most difficult pill to swallow for those in attendance, however, were proposals for cuts in annual service hours, expected to decrease by 28 percent. That proposal is up for a final vote on June 10, 2013.
Due to cuts, buses and shuttles will run less often, with fewer stops, especially on weekends.
Rick Talbert, Pierce Transit's board vice chairman, told the audience that the failed election to win more funding through sales tax dollars in the service area forced the agency to make hard decisions and cut staff and service.
For many in attendance, service cuts have resulted in missed doctor appointments, lost work and missed opportunities.
"You're messing with our lives," said one Pierce Transit rider.
Read more on The Tacoma News Tribune.
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