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9 <br /> 1 Slide #12 <br /> 2 <br /> Build trust with riders and the community <br /> _ Increase a diverse network of regional partners <br /> within GoTriangle's service area <br /> What's n ext? <br /> Foster commitment and ownership among <br /> stakeholders <br /> Grow Grow and fund the Ambassador Program <br /> and fund3 <br /> 4 Jimmy Price presented this slide and welcomed questions from the Board. <br /> 5 Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked what percentage of the time a safety issue is present <br /> 6 when there are incidents. <br /> 7 Jimmy Price said there used to be more of an issue, but GoTriangle educated drivers <br /> 8 about de-escalation and conflict resolution, mental health issues, etc. and the number of safety <br /> 9 threats has dropped. He said GoTriangle has also implemented a softer approach when it comes <br /> 10 to engaging law enforcement. He said law enforcement is called only when absolutely necessary. <br /> 11 He explained there is a security officer on platforms, but the Transit Ambassador is the bridge that <br /> 12 helps address issues before they become serious. <br /> 13 Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked if there is a Transit Ambassador on each bus. <br /> 14 Jimmy Price said right now, it is only Tasha, but the goal is to increase the number of <br /> 15 Ambassadors. He said they are taking a strategic approach now and ensuring that Tasha is <br /> 16 present on routes with riders of greater needs in order to provide resources. <br /> 17 Commissioner Portie-Ascott asked how many of those riders are children. <br /> 18 Jimmy Price said he has not seen data indicating that many riders are children. He said <br /> 19 the challenge is that they do not get on the buses and ask who is experiencing homelessness. <br /> 20 He explained that their presence builds trust, and they find out information through conversation. <br /> 21 Commissioner Greene said the GoTriangle Board of Directors was very excited about this <br /> 22 program and about adding more ambassador positions as part of the Strategic Plan. He <br /> 23 encouraged Jimmy Price to reach out to as many social service stakeholders in Orange County <br /> 24 as possible. <br /> 25 Chair Bedford asked if there is anyone on staff trained on working with people with IDD <br /> 26 and helping them navigate the busses. <br /> 27 Jimmy Price said that training is in the works, and they rely on community partners in the <br /> 28 meantime for the expertise. <br />