An Agreement at Last
At BITA’s June meeting, it voted unanimously to approve
the Revised Management Services Agreement between BITA and BIBCO.
The Boat Company's Board of Directors took similar action on May
29. This provides a positive culmination to a negotiation process
that began over five years ago at the prompting of BITA to bring
the Management Service Agreement into compliance with State and
Federal regulations.
This agreement encompasses the contractual obligation for the
operation of the Emerald Isle, as well as a forma agreement for
the Transportation Authority Building (located opposite the ferry
dock), an amendment to the dock license agreement and a structure
for past and future capital equipment acquisitions that BITA receives
for BIBCO's use in regard to the smooth and efficient public transportation
service operated on behalf of the Island community. During the
past seven years, BITA has received in excess of $5,000,000, which
has been used in conjunction with the Emerald Isle to enhance
our Island's public transportation infrastructure. BIBCO’s
Bill McDonough stated, “These funds have already made a very
significant impact on our Island's economy and they will continue
to enable the Boat Company to provide a standard of service equal
to the needs of the foreseeable future.”
BITA Chairman Rich Gillespie said, “the availability of
public funding for this public transportation system allows the
community, businesses and Island residents to realize the benefit
this improved level of service offers, through the Emerald Isle
and the infrastructure the funding provides. However, opportunities
such as these often bring regulations and requirements that must
be followed to meet the funding source provisions. These issues
have now been addressed. We have documents in place that will
allow for the continued growth of both organizations and protection
of public and private interests.”
Members of both organizations complimented each other's negotiating
teams and staff members for their dedication and work. A copy
of the agreement will be at the Beaver Island District Library
for public review.
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