County Expands Transportation Program for Seniors Despite Funding Concerns

The Will County Board voted Thursday to expand the county’s Mobility Management Program to additional townships, despite some members’ concerns about funding and equity.

The agreement amendment, which passed by a 14-8 vote, extends the transportation service to Channahon, Manhattan, and Plainfield townships. The program provides rides to seniors and those with disabilities for medical appointments and essential services.

Board member Steve Balich, who voted against the expansion, cited concerns about fairness to residents in areas not yet served by the program.

“Part of my district is going to have to pay with no benefits. It’s like taxation without representation,” Balich said. “When it gets to where everybody is included, I’ll be voting yes.”

Elaine Bottomley, who administers the program, told the board that expanding to additional townships would be phased in over the next two years based on needs and available funding.

“I don’t feel like at this point in time we have the financial space to also include Wheatland [Township], but I’d be happy to have that conversation for next fiscal year,” Bottomley said in response to questions about when other townships might be added.

Board member Mary Burkowitz urged faster expansion to areas with dense populations but limited healthcare access.

“It becomes more difficult for seniors to get appointments and get healthcare,” Burkowitz said. “I would like to see something sooner because two years is a long time.”

The program currently serves 13 of the county’s 24 townships, with plans to eventually extend countywide.

Board member Judy Ogala raised concerns about the program’s funding structure, noting that townships previously paid for their own transportation services but now the county has assumed the full cost.

“Those townships have not lowered their levy by the decrease that they no longer have to pay for this service, but the county board has to increase our levy to cover that cost,” Ogala said. “That’s why I don’t like this program the way it’s set up.”

Supporters emphasized the essential nature of the service for vulnerable residents without other transportation options, particularly in rural areas.

The county board also approved an intergovernmental agreement with Joliet Township regarding transportation for health and social services in a separate unanimous vote.

County officials indicated they would develop a more comprehensive policy for the program’s expansion and funding mechanisms in the future.