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2 <br /> Staff will assess the impacts over the one-year period, and present findings to the Board in <br /> November 2026 related to potential continuation or discontinuance of the fare-free fixed-route <br /> system. <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: Approval would amend the fee schedule to remove the Orange County <br /> Public Transportation Public Shuttle fees for one year. The department would make changes <br /> within its operating budget and removing fares will not increase the County cost of operating the <br /> fixed routes. <br /> ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: <br /> • GOAL 2: HEALTHY COMMUNITY <br /> OBJECTIVE 2. Expand access to quality, affordable healthcare services. (e.g., Crisis <br /> Diversion facility, Medicaid expansion, crisis response, healthy living campaign). <br /> OBJECTIVE 7. Invest in services and programs that improve the health and quality of life <br /> of the community (e.g., recreation and public open spaces, arts, etc.) <br /> • GOAL 4: MULTI-MODAL TRANSPORTATION <br /> OBJECTIVE 2. Increase community awareness of all modes of transportation including <br /> transit, bike and pedestrian, vehicle, and all other modes. <br /> OBJECTIVE 3. Support road projects that address congestion and reduce commute time <br /> using the County' s Complete Streets policy. <br /> OBJECTIVE 4. Coordinate transit investments with municipal and county land use <br /> planning to reduce vehicle miles travelled and to provide more equitable access to <br /> shopping, employment, medical centers, college campuses, etc. <br /> OBJECTIVE 6. Update transportation related plans to provide more multi- modal options <br /> including rural Orange County. <br /> • GOAL 6: DIVERSE AND VIBRANT ECONOMY <br /> OBJECTIVE 2. Review and revise County policies and regulations to support business <br /> investment in Orange County. <br /> OBJECTIVE 5. Increase access to and awareness of resources and assistance available <br /> to residents and businesses. <br /> RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the fee changes <br /> and the implementation of a one-year pilot program for fare free fixed-route transportation service <br /> effective January 2, 2026. <br />