MINI BUS PARATRANSIT:
1. Eligibility: Persons who are certified under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as having a disability that prevents
them from riding fixed-route buses are eligible to use the Mini Bus Paratransit Service. In order to qualify, the applicant and
a health care provider must complete and both must sign the Mini Bus Paratransit application form. The applicant has 21
days from the date they first rode to submit a COMPLETE application. A decision will be made within 21 days of receipt of a
complete application. If a decision is not made within that 21 day period, the applicant will be considered as eligible until a
decision is made. If an applicant is denied, the applicant will be given an explanation in writing explaining the specific reason
as to why they were denied. They also will be provided in writing the appeals process (see # 17). Application forms are
available from the Finney County Transit (FIT) office or on-line at the above web site. The applicant will not be charged any
“user fees” that cause an unreasonable burden upon the applicant, including doctor’s fees and application fees. An ARNP is
available at the Senior Center on a limited basis for no-cost consultation on the application and subsequent signature if
verified by the ARNP.
2. Hours/Days of Operation: Hours are Monday through Friday (except Holidays) from 6:00 am-7:00 pm with the last call
for return being 6:30 pm. Passengers outside Garden City city limits must call early enough to allow drivers to return to the
FIT Center by 7:00 p.m. Passengers are asked to call by 6:30 p.m. the last work day before to schedule rides.
3. Cost: $1.00 Fare per person per one-way trip inside the city limits. Monthly Pass (unlimited rides on all Mini Buses within
city limits)- $40.00 County Fare: outside of city limits and within 5 miles driving distance of city limits- $2.00; within 10 miles-
$3.00; within 15 miles- $4.00; within 20 miles- $5.00; within 25 miles- $6.00. Add $1.00 for each additional 5 miles driving
distance from edge of city limits. Driver will calculate miles driven from city limits to pick up location. Children 5 and under are
free with a paying passenger. A one-way trip is considered to be one-way service to a location from another location,
whether or not the person disembarks.
4. Pickup times/wait policy: Pick up window: Everyone must be at the main entrance 15(fifteen) minutes ahead of their
scheduled pick up time. Drivers may also pick you up 15(fifteen) minutes after the scheduled pick up time, however they will
pick you up as close to your pick up time as possible. Drivers will not wait more than 5 (FIVE) minutes for anyone to board
the bus as long as it falls within the 15 minute window on either side of the scheduled pick up time. If not on board within 5
(five) minutes the driver will leave and will not return that day. This will be considered a No Go and all other rides scheduled
for that day will be canceled. (See #5)
5. No Shows/Cancellations: A No Go occurs when a rider does not cancel a reservation at least two hours before the
start of the scheduled pick-up window (See #4) and does not take the trip. This includes failing to be ready to board the bus
within five minutes of its arrival, during the pick-up window and/or telling the driver you do not want the ride. This is a serious
infraction of FIT rules. FIT will attempt to contact riders who are not at the pick-up location when the vehicle arrives to let
them know they must go to the vehicle or they will receive a No Go. The person will be charged their normal fare for the
untaken ride the next time they ride. If the rider cannot be contacted, but has an answering machine, a message will be left.
If a rider No Go’s the first half of a round trip, the second half will be cancelled unless the rider contacts FIT immediately to
retain the second half of the round trip. FIT will make every effort to dispatch a vehicle to bring that customer home, with the
understanding that it will be on a first availability basis to pick up that customer. Riders will receive a warning in writing after
they receive 4(four) No Go’s within six months. After six No Go’s within six months the rider will be sent a suspension letter
resulting in a 30 day suspension of service. If a rider is suspended and then demonstrates a pattern of No Go’s after the
original suspension has ended, the rider may subsequently be suspended for longer periods. First Suspension: 30 days;
Second Suspension*: 60 days; Third Suspension*: 90 days; Fourth Suspension*: Indefinite pending demonstration that the
problem behavior can and will be changed with a minimum of 90 days. Riders are not penalized for No Go’s that occur due
to sudden emergencies which make it impossible for them to cancel. Because only two hour’s notice is needed to cancel, it
is anticipated that most riders will be able to cancel in a timely fashion. Riders are not penalized for being a No Go if the bus
arrived late, that is, after the end of the pick up window, or if a reservation error was made by the dispatcher. Riders are
encouraged to discuss their record with staff if they feel they have been No Go’d in error. Disputes regarding this policy will
be referred to the FIT Committee through the grievance procedure as outlined in guideline #16 and appeals process #17.
*within two years of the most recent suspension
6. Delays: Due to the number of rides we provide it is not always possible for buses to run exactly on schedule. It is
important for you to allow extra time to ensure your scheduling needs can be met.
7. Personal Assistance to Riders: Drivers may enter a commercial lobby to assist a rider to the vehicle, but are not
permitted to enter a residence. Drivers are permitted to assist passengers with activities directly related to boarding and de-
boarding the bus. Drivers are permitted to assist special needs passengers with their packages up to the limits outlined in
guideline #13 up to the door of the residence. One Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may ride with a disabled rider to assist
them with their personal needs without charge. Only drivers will operate wheelchair lift/restraint system equipment. All
medical equipment (oxygen tanks, walkers, etc.) will be secured by the driver for the duration of the ride.
8. Wheelchair Procedures: Drivers will assist passengers only on approved wheelchair ramps the customer provides and
provide their own wheelchairs for transport. Drivers will not assist passengers in wheelchairs up or down stairs. Passengers
are responsible for either a ramp or someone other than the bus driver in getting in and out of their home, doctor’s office,
etc. where steps are present. Such riders must provide their own personal care attendant to assist in their transfer. Drivers
are not permitted to assist individuals in transferring from a scooter or wheelchair to regular vehicle seating. Such riders
must provide their own personal care attendant to assist in their transfer. Drivers are not permitted to push passengers
whose weight exceeds 300 lbs. These passengers are responsible for a personal care attendant to push and maneuver the
wheelchair onto the bus, assist with securing wheelchair and in pushing wheelchair out of and away from the bus.
9. Conduct, Hygiene and Prohibited Behaviors: If at any time the driver feels they are in an unsafe situation the driver
will have the right to exercise judgment and stop the vehicle and ask passenger to get off vehicle or call authorities if
needed. Elderly and disabled riders will be given preference for seats upon bus becoming full. Drivers are permitted to
assist in fastening/ unfastening seat belts/shoulder restraints if requested by passenger. Inappropriate conduct, including
behaviors which present a danger to other passengers will not be tolerated. These include, but are not limited to:
intoxication, fighting, arguing, threatening the driver or fellow passengers, use of foul or derogatory language and sexual
harassment. Individuals who are habitually incontinent, or have offensively poor personal hygiene will be referred to social
services to assess their needs. If the passenger refuses to comply with the referral they will be denied future bus service.
At the driver’s discretion, a rider who engages in persistent inappropriate and/or dangerous behavior can be required to
vacate the vehicle. No food or drink including alcoholic beverages is to be consumed on the bus except for medical
purposes as allowed by the driver. NO TOBACCO usage of any kind is allowed on the bus. NO WEAPONS ARE ALLOWED
ON THE BUS. If a passenger is found to have a weapon of any kind, they will be asked to vacate the bus immediately and
will not be allowed to ride anymore that day. If a person refuses to vacate the bus when requested to do so by the driver for
any of the above listed reasons the police will be called to escort them off the bus. A Second offense will result in a 30 day
Suspension, a Third offense in a 60 day Suspension and a Fourth offense in an Indefinite Suspension pending
demonstration that the problem behavior can and will be changed with a minimum of 90 days Suspension from bus service.
10. School bus Service: The Mini Bus is not a school bus- public school students going to and from school or school
programs are not allowed on the Mini Bus.
11. Pets/Service Animals: No animals other than service animals (i.e.: seeing eye dogs, etc.) are allowed on the buses for
any reason.
12. Bad Weather Policy: In the event of inclement weather listen to your radio. If USD 457 Schools close down the Mini
Bus also closes down. Additionally if the management of the Mini Bus Service feels the weather is so severe it is unsafe to
operate, then operations will cease for the day in question. KIUL radio station will be notified to announce these weather
related closings. Drivers have the right to exercise judgment as to whether he/she can safely drive on a particular roadway,
driveway or highway. In the event of high wind warnings our high profile vehicles are not allowed to travel outside the city
limits. Drivers will not push wheelchairs on ramps/walks/etc. that are not clear of snow and ice.
13. Limitations: Drivers will not carry or lift parcels/carry-on items greater than 20 pounds in weight. Drivers are limited to
carrying bags up flights of steps no more than 7 steps high and are only allowed to make 2 trips to carry packages to the
main entry door or lobby. Drivers are not permitted to transport furniture or appliances for passengers.
14. Emergencies: The Mini Bus is not designed for emergency situations and transportation will not be provided in these
instances. Persons having an emergency will be instructed to call 911 so an ambulance can transport them.
15. Evictions: Anyone who does not adhere to these guidelines can and will be evicted from using the bus.
16. Grievance Procedures: This grievance procedure has been developed to assure passengers of fair and equitable
access to FIT Bus Service. In the event of suspension information will be sent outlining the appeals process with the
suspension letter. When a consumer has any problem, the following procedure should be followed to resolve the conflict:
Each passenger is expected to communicate in writing directly to the Transportation Director or their designee regarding
ride-related actions, occurrences or attitudes perceived as unfair or inequitable. A passenger who believes he/she has
suffered a grievance should communicate the matter with the Transportation Director or their designee within five working
days of the occurrence of the alleged grievance in an attempt to arrive at a satisfactory solution. The Transportation
Director or their designee will have five working days to respond, making every effort to resolve the grievance at this level. If
a resolution is not reached, the grievance must be described in writing and submitted to the FIT Committee within 30 days
for their review.
17. Appeals: If the customer wishes to appeal the decision of the FIT Committee a written appeal must be submitted to the
Finney County Committee Aging, Inc. within 30 days. The board of directors will review the evidence presented by the party
bringing the grievance and by the Transportation Director at their next regularly scheduled meeting and will provide a
decision in writing within 30 days including specific reason for decision to all parties involved. If no decision is made within
the 30 days, provisional services will be provided until a decision is reached. Board of director’s decision is final.
It is understood that Finney County Transit passengers ride at their own risk. No liabilities will be accepted.
Finney County Transit Committee
Revised on July 1, 2008
1. Eligibility: Persons who are certified under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as having a disability that prevents
them from riding fixed-route buses are eligible to use the Mini Bus Paratransit Service. In order to qualify, the applicant and
a health care provider must complete and both must sign the Mini Bus Paratransit application form. The applicant has 21
days from the date they first rode to submit a COMPLETE application. A decision will be made within 21 days of receipt of a
complete application. If a decision is not made within that 21 day period, the applicant will be considered as eligible until a
decision is made. If an applicant is denied, the applicant will be given an explanation in writing explaining the specific reason
as to why they were denied. They also will be provided in writing the appeals process (see # 17). Application forms are
available from the Finney County Transit (FIT) office or on-line at the above web site. The applicant will not be charged any
“user fees” that cause an unreasonable burden upon the applicant, including doctor’s fees and application fees. An ARNP is
available at the Senior Center on a limited basis for no-cost consultation on the application and subsequent signature if
verified by the ARNP.
2. Hours/Days of Operation: Hours are Monday through Friday (except Holidays) from 6:00 am-7:00 pm with the last call
for return being 6:30 pm. Passengers outside Garden City city limits must call early enough to allow drivers to return to the
FIT Center by 7:00 p.m. Passengers are asked to call by 6:30 p.m. the last work day before to schedule rides.
3. Cost: $1.00 Fare per person per one-way trip inside the city limits. Monthly Pass (unlimited rides on all Mini Buses within
city limits)- $40.00 County Fare: outside of city limits and within 5 miles driving distance of city limits- $2.00; within 10 miles-
$3.00; within 15 miles- $4.00; within 20 miles- $5.00; within 25 miles- $6.00. Add $1.00 for each additional 5 miles driving
distance from edge of city limits. Driver will calculate miles driven from city limits to pick up location. Children 5 and under are
free with a paying passenger. A one-way trip is considered to be one-way service to a location from another location,
whether or not the person disembarks.
4. Pickup times/wait policy: Pick up window: Everyone must be at the main entrance 15(fifteen) minutes ahead of their
scheduled pick up time. Drivers may also pick you up 15(fifteen) minutes after the scheduled pick up time, however they will
pick you up as close to your pick up time as possible. Drivers will not wait more than 5 (FIVE) minutes for anyone to board
the bus as long as it falls within the 15 minute window on either side of the scheduled pick up time. If not on board within 5
(five) minutes the driver will leave and will not return that day. This will be considered a No Go and all other rides scheduled
for that day will be canceled. (See #5)
5. No Shows/Cancellations: A No Go occurs when a rider does not cancel a reservation at least two hours before the
start of the scheduled pick-up window (See #4) and does not take the trip. This includes failing to be ready to board the bus
within five minutes of its arrival, during the pick-up window and/or telling the driver you do not want the ride. This is a serious
infraction of FIT rules. FIT will attempt to contact riders who are not at the pick-up location when the vehicle arrives to let
them know they must go to the vehicle or they will receive a No Go. The person will be charged their normal fare for the
untaken ride the next time they ride. If the rider cannot be contacted, but has an answering machine, a message will be left.
If a rider No Go’s the first half of a round trip, the second half will be cancelled unless the rider contacts FIT immediately to
retain the second half of the round trip. FIT will make every effort to dispatch a vehicle to bring that customer home, with the
understanding that it will be on a first availability basis to pick up that customer. Riders will receive a warning in writing after
they receive 4(four) No Go’s within six months. After six No Go’s within six months the rider will be sent a suspension letter
resulting in a 30 day suspension of service. If a rider is suspended and then demonstrates a pattern of No Go’s after the
original suspension has ended, the rider may subsequently be suspended for longer periods. First Suspension: 30 days;
Second Suspension*: 60 days; Third Suspension*: 90 days; Fourth Suspension*: Indefinite pending demonstration that the
problem behavior can and will be changed with a minimum of 90 days. Riders are not penalized for No Go’s that occur due
to sudden emergencies which make it impossible for them to cancel. Because only two hour’s notice is needed to cancel, it
is anticipated that most riders will be able to cancel in a timely fashion. Riders are not penalized for being a No Go if the bus
arrived late, that is, after the end of the pick up window, or if a reservation error was made by the dispatcher. Riders are
encouraged to discuss their record with staff if they feel they have been No Go’d in error. Disputes regarding this policy will
be referred to the FIT Committee through the grievance procedure as outlined in guideline #16 and appeals process #17.
*within two years of the most recent suspension
6. Delays: Due to the number of rides we provide it is not always possible for buses to run exactly on schedule. It is
important for you to allow extra time to ensure your scheduling needs can be met.
7. Personal Assistance to Riders: Drivers may enter a commercial lobby to assist a rider to the vehicle, but are not
permitted to enter a residence. Drivers are permitted to assist passengers with activities directly related to boarding and de-
boarding the bus. Drivers are permitted to assist special needs passengers with their packages up to the limits outlined in
guideline #13 up to the door of the residence. One Personal Care Attendant (PCA) may ride with a disabled rider to assist
them with their personal needs without charge. Only drivers will operate wheelchair lift/restraint system equipment. All
medical equipment (oxygen tanks, walkers, etc.) will be secured by the driver for the duration of the ride.
8. Wheelchair Procedures: Drivers will assist passengers only on approved wheelchair ramps the customer provides and
provide their own wheelchairs for transport. Drivers will not assist passengers in wheelchairs up or down stairs. Passengers
are responsible for either a ramp or someone other than the bus driver in getting in and out of their home, doctor’s office,
etc. where steps are present. Such riders must provide their own personal care attendant to assist in their transfer. Drivers
are not permitted to assist individuals in transferring from a scooter or wheelchair to regular vehicle seating. Such riders
must provide their own personal care attendant to assist in their transfer. Drivers are not permitted to push passengers
whose weight exceeds 300 lbs. These passengers are responsible for a personal care attendant to push and maneuver the
wheelchair onto the bus, assist with securing wheelchair and in pushing wheelchair out of and away from the bus.
9. Conduct, Hygiene and Prohibited Behaviors: If at any time the driver feels they are in an unsafe situation the driver
will have the right to exercise judgment and stop the vehicle and ask passenger to get off vehicle or call authorities if
needed. Elderly and disabled riders will be given preference for seats upon bus becoming full. Drivers are permitted to
assist in fastening/ unfastening seat belts/shoulder restraints if requested by passenger. Inappropriate conduct, including
behaviors which present a danger to other passengers will not be tolerated. These include, but are not limited to:
intoxication, fighting, arguing, threatening the driver or fellow passengers, use of foul or derogatory language and sexual
harassment. Individuals who are habitually incontinent, or have offensively poor personal hygiene will be referred to social
services to assess their needs. If the passenger refuses to comply with the referral they will be denied future bus service.
At the driver’s discretion, a rider who engages in persistent inappropriate and/or dangerous behavior can be required to
vacate the vehicle. No food or drink including alcoholic beverages is to be consumed on the bus except for medical
purposes as allowed by the driver. NO TOBACCO usage of any kind is allowed on the bus. NO WEAPONS ARE ALLOWED
ON THE BUS. If a passenger is found to have a weapon of any kind, they will be asked to vacate the bus immediately and
will not be allowed to ride anymore that day. If a person refuses to vacate the bus when requested to do so by the driver for
any of the above listed reasons the police will be called to escort them off the bus. A Second offense will result in a 30 day
Suspension, a Third offense in a 60 day Suspension and a Fourth offense in an Indefinite Suspension pending
demonstration that the problem behavior can and will be changed with a minimum of 90 days Suspension from bus service.
10. School bus Service: The Mini Bus is not a school bus- public school students going to and from school or school
programs are not allowed on the Mini Bus.
11. Pets/Service Animals: No animals other than service animals (i.e.: seeing eye dogs, etc.) are allowed on the buses for
any reason.
12. Bad Weather Policy: In the event of inclement weather listen to your radio. If USD 457 Schools close down the Mini
Bus also closes down. Additionally if the management of the Mini Bus Service feels the weather is so severe it is unsafe to
operate, then operations will cease for the day in question. KIUL radio station will be notified to announce these weather
related closings. Drivers have the right to exercise judgment as to whether he/she can safely drive on a particular roadway,
driveway or highway. In the event of high wind warnings our high profile vehicles are not allowed to travel outside the city
limits. Drivers will not push wheelchairs on ramps/walks/etc. that are not clear of snow and ice.
13. Limitations: Drivers will not carry or lift parcels/carry-on items greater than 20 pounds in weight. Drivers are limited to
carrying bags up flights of steps no more than 7 steps high and are only allowed to make 2 trips to carry packages to the
main entry door or lobby. Drivers are not permitted to transport furniture or appliances for passengers.
14. Emergencies: The Mini Bus is not designed for emergency situations and transportation will not be provided in these
instances. Persons having an emergency will be instructed to call 911 so an ambulance can transport them.
15. Evictions: Anyone who does not adhere to these guidelines can and will be evicted from using the bus.
16. Grievance Procedures: This grievance procedure has been developed to assure passengers of fair and equitable
access to FIT Bus Service. In the event of suspension information will be sent outlining the appeals process with the
suspension letter. When a consumer has any problem, the following procedure should be followed to resolve the conflict:
Each passenger is expected to communicate in writing directly to the Transportation Director or their designee regarding
ride-related actions, occurrences or attitudes perceived as unfair or inequitable. A passenger who believes he/she has
suffered a grievance should communicate the matter with the Transportation Director or their designee within five working
days of the occurrence of the alleged grievance in an attempt to arrive at a satisfactory solution. The Transportation
Director or their designee will have five working days to respond, making every effort to resolve the grievance at this level. If
a resolution is not reached, the grievance must be described in writing and submitted to the FIT Committee within 30 days
for their review.
17. Appeals: If the customer wishes to appeal the decision of the FIT Committee a written appeal must be submitted to the
Finney County Committee Aging, Inc. within 30 days. The board of directors will review the evidence presented by the party
bringing the grievance and by the Transportation Director at their next regularly scheduled meeting and will provide a
decision in writing within 30 days including specific reason for decision to all parties involved. If no decision is made within
the 30 days, provisional services will be provided until a decision is reached. Board of director’s decision is final.
It is understood that Finney County Transit passengers ride at their own risk. No liabilities will be accepted.
Finney County Transit Committee
Revised on July 1, 2008
