Murphy – The Cherokee County Transit Department created an official passenger guide that outlines policies, procedures and penalties for not following the guidelines.
“I wanted a guide explaining our rules, policies and standards of operation that new passengers or new people to the area could pick up,” Transit Director Jennifer West said. “We had some policies, but we didn’t have them compiled into a guide before now.”
In addition to a list of locations and costs for roundtrip travel to various destinations in and outside of the county, the guide includes new information regarding the various violations that could lead to a passenger being suspended from using the service.
“This outlines what we could suspend people for and how long,” West said.
“It also outlines the no-show policy and the appeal process [for anyone who has been suspended].”
West said it’s very rare for a passenger to be suspended from using the service. However, in today’s environment, officials determined an official policy was needed. The guide also includes policies regarding personal hygiene, appropriate attire and the transfer of animal waste that may result from passengers who have pets in their home.
“In today’s world that we’re living in, it is possible that the vans could be soiled,” West said. “It’s a health and safety concern; that’s the only reason we even broached the subject.”
The transit department has 12 vehicles and nine drivers that travel to various locations in Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. Anywhere between 4-8 vehicles are dispatched each weekday, depending on demand. The department will transport residents to medical appointments, shopping destinations, and for employment purposes.
The vehicles continue to run in accordance with recommendations and restrictions issued by state and local officials due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
“We’re still running and trying to meet the needs of the citizens,” West said.
Residents and visitors can grab a copy of the new transit guide at 77 Hardin St. or access it online at www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov.