2. Small Budget Campaigns CFTE Conference Austin TX June 12, 2007

3. A Brief History Central Midlands Regional Transit Authority –Began operation in 2002 –43 Fixed Route Buses –23 Para-Transit Cut-a-ways –28 Fixed Routes –2.8 Million passengers annually –190 square mile, two county service area –$12 Million Annual Budget –Since 2002 ridership has grown by 30%

5. The Environment Financial Crisis Current funding is set to expire in September 2009 Need $3 million for match annually SC state law limits what money can be used for public transportation

6. The Message Demonstrate Leadership –Partnerships –High Job Performance –Communication –Stewardship –Vision –Diversity

7. Partnerships/Diversity Chamber of Commerce League of Women Voters Disability Advocates Churches United Way of the Midlands Sierra Club

8. High Job Performance/ Stewardship Complete system restructuring in 2005 saved $1 million –Eliminate under performing routes –Combine Routes –Add Service Hours –Add Routes –Eliminated downtown trolley system Ridership Increase

9. Communication Meeting Meetings Meetings! –County Council –Editorial Board –Radio Stations –TV stations –Public Hearings –Chamber of Commerce Intra-City visit Fast Facts Brochure Information Paper Earned Media

10. End Result Temporary Vehicle Registration Fee Formed/Funded Transportation Study Group Ownership of the issue