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 which operates within ¾ mile either
side of the City Link fixed routes. 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. Applicants will be
assessed on their ability to complete a series of exercises to determine their ability to board and access the City Link fixed
route bus service. Disability alone does not quality passenger for paratransit service. If passenger is capable of riding fixed
route and is over age 60 and/or has a medically documented disability he/she will receive a half fare City Link fixed route
card and will not be approved for Mini Bus paratransit service. 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. Applicant also will be provided in writing the
appeals process (see # 16). 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 7:00 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 Mini Bus
Paratransits) $40.00 County Fare: outside of city limits and within 5 miles driving distance of city limits- $2.00. 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. Children
10 and under must be accompanied by a person 16 or older and have the same origin and destination. Children 11 to 16
must present picture ID to driver on boarding to ride alone.
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 #15 and appeals process #16.
*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. Drivers are
permitted to assist in fastening/ unfastening seat belts/shoulder restraints if requested by passenger.
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 their own movement or a personal care attendant to
push and maneuver the wheelchair onto the bus and in moving the 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. 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. Anyone’s behavior that poses a safety hazard to themselves or others
caused by misplaced bodily fluids will be denied 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 alcohol beverages may be consumed
on the bus. No other food or drink is to be consumed on the bus except for medical purposes as allowed by the driver. NO
TOBACCO USAGE OR OPEN CONTAINERS of any kind is allowed on the bus. NO WEAPONS OR AMMUNITION ARE
ALLOWED ON THE BUS. NO HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SUCH AS CAR BATTERIES, GASOLINE, PROPANE, ETC. IS
ALLOWED ON THE BUS. If a passenger is found to have aforementioned item he/she 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 him/her 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. Pets/Service Animals: No animals other than service animals (such as seeing eye dogs, etc.) are allowed on the
buses for any reason.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. Emergencies: The Mini Bus is not designed for medical emergency situations (absent a natural disaster where
vehicles may be used for evacuation). Transportation will not be provided in these instances. Persons having a medical
emergency will be instructed to call 911 so an ambulance can transport them.
14. Evictions: Anyone who does not adhere to these guidelines can and will be evicted from using the bus.
15. 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 his/her 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 his/her 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.
16. 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.
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 which operates within ¾ mile either
side of the City Link fixed routes. 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. Applicants will be
assessed on their ability to complete a series of exercises to determine their ability to board and access the City Link fixed
route bus service. Disability alone does not quality passenger for paratransit service. If passenger is capable of riding fixed
route and is over age 60 and/or has a medically documented disability he/she will receive a half fare City Link fixed route
card and will not be approved for Mini Bus paratransit service. 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. Applicant also will be provided in writing the
appeals process (see # 16). 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 7:00 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 Mini Bus
Paratransits) $40.00 County Fare: outside of city limits and within 5 miles driving distance of city limits- $2.00. 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. Children
10 and under must be accompanied by a person 16 or older and have the same origin and destination. Children 11 to 16
must present picture ID to driver on boarding to ride alone.
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 #15 and appeals process #16.
*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. Drivers are
permitted to assist in fastening/ unfastening seat belts/shoulder restraints if requested by passenger.
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 their own movement or a personal care attendant to
push and maneuver the wheelchair onto the bus and in moving the 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. 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. Anyone’s behavior that poses a safety hazard to themselves or others
caused by misplaced bodily fluids will be denied 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 alcohol beverages may be consumed
on the bus. No other food or drink is to be consumed on the bus except for medical purposes as allowed by the driver. NO
TOBACCO USAGE OR OPEN CONTAINERS of any kind is allowed on the bus. NO WEAPONS OR AMMUNITION ARE
ALLOWED ON THE BUS. NO HAZARDOUS MATERIAL SUCH AS CAR BATTERIES, GASOLINE, PROPANE, ETC. IS
ALLOWED ON THE BUS. If a passenger is found to have aforementioned item he/she 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 him/her 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. Pets/Service Animals: No animals other than service animals (such as seeing eye dogs, etc.) are allowed on the
buses for any reason.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. Emergencies: The Mini Bus is not designed for medical emergency situations (absent a natural disaster where
vehicles may be used for evacuation). Transportation will not be provided in these instances. Persons having a medical
emergency will be instructed to call 911 so an ambulance can transport them.
14. Evictions: Anyone who does not adhere to these guidelines can and will be evicted from using the bus.
15. 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 his/her 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 his/her 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.
16. 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.
