Title
Request Approval to Contract with Enterprise Leasing Company of Florida, LLC., to provide a Van Pool Program as Requested and Funded by the Florida Department of Transportation (B)
This item is to request that the City Commission authorize the Regional Transit System (RTS) to enter into a contract with Enterprise Leasing Company of Florida, LLC. to continue to provide a commuter van pool into the City of Gainesville and Alachua County per a request from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).
Explanation
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has requested that RTS act as a pass through for funding to allow the current Van Pool Program to continue to operate. There are thirteen vans currently in operation bringing workers into Gainesville to the VA Hospital and UF Health/Shands Medical Center. The vans currently originate in Lake City, Ocala, Jacksonville and Putman County. State funds are available through FDOT to fund the current Van Pool Program with Enterprise Leasing Company of Florida, LLC. FDOT has assured RTS that minimal staff time will be required to oversee this grant program. Staff believes this role is consistent with the mission of RTS and would like to avoid the potential loss of the services provided through the Commuter Assistance Program.
FDOT proposed a Public Transportation Grant Agreement (PTGA), discussed in agenda item #181057, to provide funding for this program and specified Enterprise Leasing Company of Florida, LLC. as a sole source provider of this service.
The FDOT grant will fully fund this project; no funding is required from the City. The City will not be responsible for managing day to day operations or maintenance/replacement of the vans used in the Van Pool Program. The administrative cost of RTS staff to oversee and monitor this project on behalf of FDOT is expected to be minimal and is proposed to be absorbed by RTS staff. If the staff time necessary for oversight turns out to be more than expected or sustainable with existing staff, RTS can seek additional FDOT financial support.
This contract is for a five year period.
Fiscal Note
This project is fully funded through a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation.
Recommendation
The City Commission authorize the City Manager or designee to execute the contract with Enterprise Leasing Company of Florida, LLC. and related documents, subject to approval by the City Attorney as to form and legality.