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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPR 18679: REVISED PARATRANSIT MANUAL, (FTA) RULES AND REGULATIONS, DISABILITIES ACT P. R. No.18679 11/19/2014 DDA RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION FOR THE ADOPTION OF THE REVISED PARATRANS1T MANUAL AS MANDATED BY THE FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION (FTA) IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)AND THE U.S.DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (DOT). WHEREAS,the Federal Transit Administration(FTA), and the Department of Transportation (DOT)regularly review transit agencies' Paratransit manuals to ensure that all rules and regulations are adhered to regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA);and, WHEREAS, Port Arthur Transit was advised of discrepancies in the Paratransit manual citing errors to be corrected based on regulations in the "United States Code of Federal Regulations(CFR)Part 37, subpart F"; and, WHEREAS, all errors have been corrected and the Paratransit manual have been revised (as delineated in Exhibit"A")to reflect compliance of all ADA rules and regulations. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PORT ARTHUR: THAT,the facts and opinions in the preamble are true and correct in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth by the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations(CFR)and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA)as they relate to the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). THAT,the City Council approves the revised Paratransit manual reflecting compliance of all rules and regulations as they apply to the Americans with Disabilities Act(ADA). THAT. a copy of the caption of this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the City Council. P.R. No. 18679 11/25/2014 DDA Page 2 of 2 READ,ADOPTED AND APPROVEDthis day of December 2014,A.D.at a Regular Meeting ofthe City Council ofPort Arthur,Texas by the following vote:AYES: MAYOR: COUNCILMEMBERS: NOES: ATTEST: Mayor City Secretary APPROVED AS TO FORM: - /1 U City Attorney APPROVED FOR ADMINISTRATION: City Manager Transit Director Transit Planner/Title VI Coordinator f$. EXHIBIT "A" Revised Paratransit Manual Appendix A (Paratransit Application) Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Port Arthur Transit �- FTA All—Pt fraiA Federal Transit Administration ParaTransit Rider's Manual 320 Dallas Avenue 409.983.8794 or 409.983.8248 PAT Para transit The Para Transit Riders Manual is a compilation of rules and regulations established by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) specifically for the enforcement of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Transit Department is funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the City of Port Arthur. If you or someone you know feels that your Civil Rights have been violated, please contact Debra Ambroise, City of Port Arthur Title VI Coordinator/Transit Planner at 409.983.8248, or a written formal complaint may be filed directly with the federal government: Federal Transit Administration, Office of Civil Rights Attention Title VI Program Coordinator East Building, 5th Floor-TCR 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE Washington, D.C. 20590 PAT Para transit Aeseraw oak\ 11 k,.:.,.THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK A Guide to Paratransit Services Welcome 2 What Is Para Transit Who Can Use This Service 3 Applying For Service 4 Para Transit Eligibility ...4 Hours and Days of Operation 5 How to Schedule A Trip .6 Cancellations and No-Shows 7 Subscription Service .8 Responsibilities of PAT Operators .9 Responsibilities of PAT Riders 10 Service Suspension Policy 13 Will Call Policy 13 APPENDIXES Sample Application Appendix A Appeal Process (Denial of Eligibility) Appendix B Appeal Process (Suspension of Service) Appendix C Complaint Process .Appendix D Dear PAT Para Transit Passenger, Welcome aboard PAT Paratransit! This manual will introduce you to our specialized door-to-door transportation, and provide the basic information you need for an enjoyable ride. Port Arthur Transit is funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), and the City of Port Arthur. The Transit department is governed by rules and regulations established by the federal government, specifically for the enforcement of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The Title VI Program was mandated by Congress as part of the 1964 Civil Rights Act which prohibits discrimination against any person on the basis of race, creed, national origin, or disabilities. For more information on Title VI or any federally subsidized programs, please refer to "Title 49, Chapter 53, Section 5332 of the United States Code of Federal Regulations." Port Arthur Transit has been operating the Para transit Service since 1989. and provides over 16,000 rides annually for people whose disabilities prevent them from riding PAT fixed route buses. PAT door-to-door service provides pre-scheduled rides throughout Port Arthur and in some cases the Mid County area which includes the cities of Nederland, Groves, and Port Neches. Our goal is to offer you safe, convenient, and reliable transportation. if you have any additional questions regarding PAT Paratransit Service, please call 409.983.8794 or 409. 983.8248. Copies of this manual are available in accessible format (audio cassette or Braille) upon request. We are pleased to provide you with quality transportation service as we pledge to "Keep the Fleet Moving." Elderly and Paratransit Transportation A Service of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the City of Port Arthur What is Paratransit? The City of Port Arthur provides door-to-door transportation for the elderly and anyone with disabilities of all ages within the city of Port Arthur and surrounding cities including Nederland, Groves, and Port Neches. This service is for citizens who are unable to utilize the fixed route service. PAT Paratransit operators will assist you from your door or lobby of your destination; Paratransit operators are not allowed to cross the threshold of any home or establishment to render assistance to the rider. PAT Paratransit Service has a fleet of clean, air conditioned wheelchair accessible vans. 2 PAT Paratransit What Does It Cost? The Paratransit Service fare is $2.00 per trip. The vans are equipped with fare boxes; therefore exact change is required as operators do not carry change. Personal Care Attendants (PCA) are allowed to ride free, while companions of the PCA or the client are required to pay the same fare as the PAT eligible client. Paratransit service passes can be purchased in booklets of twenty (20) for forty dollars ($40.00) at the Port Arthur Transit Service Center located at 320 Dallas Avenue. Who Can Use the Service? Eligible elderly and individuals with disabilities living within the city limits of Port Arthur can utilize the service. To use this service you must obtain a Paratransit I.D. card. Cards are issued to any person who has qualifying disabilities: • Sixty-five (65) years of age or older who is unable to utilize the fixed-route system. Other examples of disabilities used to determine eligibility: • Requires a wheelchair to perform normal daily tasks • Is unable to walk one quarter (1/4) of a mile. • Is unable to physically stand for more than ten (10) minutes. • Is unable to move in crowds. • Is unable to grasp coins, passes or handles. • Is unable to handle packages. • Is unable to understand and/or follow transit directions for reasons other than language or literacy. Visitors to the City of Port Arthur do not need to have a"valid ADA Certification ID card issued by another city" Visitors may receive up to thirty (30) days of Paratransit Service during a calendar year. The thirty (30) days of service will commence on the first day of service, and need not be consecutive. 3 PAT Para Transit Applying for Service To become certified to ride PAT Paratransit Service, you must complete an application form. When required by the coordinator, your doctor/health professional will be asked for certification of your disability. =mss, Application forms may be obtained in person or by mail from the Port Arthur Transit Department located at 320 Dallas Avenue, or by calling 409.983.8794. The completed application form must be returned to the following address: PAT Paratransit Coordinator 320 Dallas Avenue Port Arthur, Texas 77640 Once approved, a PAT photo identification card will be issued to you at no cost. This identification card (ID) will be valid for five (5) years. You may use your PAT identification card to utilize the Paratransit services or fixed-route services at a reduced rate when visiting another city. ADA Paratransit Eligibility PAT will determine ADA Paratransit eligibility based on the applications submitted. Application materials in an accessible format will be made available to potential riders. PAT will determine ADA Paratransit eligibility based on the applications submitted. Applications that need further evaluation will be referred to Management for review. Upon request, letters in accessible format (large print, Braille, and/or audio cassette) will be available, informing him/her of the approval/denial and stating the reason(s) for the denial, the right to appeal, and the process for that appeal. 4 PAT Para Transit Who is a Personal Care Attendant? A Personal Care Attendant may ride with a passenger when the duties he or she performs do not occur aboard the transit vehicle. A Personal Care Attendant or PCA is "someone designated or employed specifically to help the individual meet his or her personal needs" Port Arthur Transit or PAT does not provide attendants; you must obtain your own. Your PCA is responsible for assisting you and aiding you with packages you may have on and off the van. If you utilize a wheelchair, your PCA must assist you to the van, the PAT operator will then put you on the lift and into the van; your chair must secure in the locks. If you need a PCA you must indicate so on your application; Personal Care Attendants ride free. Companions may also ride with an eligible rider on a space availability basis. Companions over the age of five (5) years old will be charged the same fare as the eligible rider ($2.00 per trip). Where can I go with PAT Paratransit Service? PAT provides door-to-door transportation within the Port Arthur area including Sabine Pass. For the benefit of medical services only, we will transport to Groves, Port Neches, and Nederland. PAT Paratransit does not provide emergency medical trips. If you have a medical emergency. call 911. PAT operators are not trained paramedics. PAT Paratransit Hours/Days of Operations PAT Paratransit operates 303 days a year, service hours are 6:15 am to 6:15 pm Monday through Friday. All return pickups must be requested prior to 5:00 pm to ensure your scheduling requirements are confirmed. Holidays in which PAT does not operate are: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and one floating holiday per year. 5 PAT Para Transit How to Schedule a Trip Trip reservations are made on a first-come, first-serve basis and must be requested at least one day ahead of your trip. Trips may be requested from one (1)to fourteen (14) days in advance. Reservations must be made with the PAT Paratransit Dispatcher at (409) 983-8794. On occasion you should be prepared with an alternate day or time if possible and "subject to availability." Trip reservations can be made during the following hours: °'� Monday through Friday 8:00 am —4:00 pm If you need to call for a trip reservation on Saturday or Sunday for a Monday pick-up. subject to availability, you may call (409) 983-8794 and utilize our voice mail. When calling to arrange a ride, please speak clearly and give the following information to the dispatcher/voice mail. • Your name/PAT I.D. Number-lit :401raiimamoi • The day of your planned trip • The address of your pickup • • The address of your destination and desired arrival time • Whether an attendant and/or a companion will be riding with you (you must be a certified as needing attendant) • Your telephone number Ensure your reservation information is correct by requesting that the dispatcher repeat it to you. PAT Paratransit trips are scheduled on a shared-ride basis. The vehicles may stop to let other passengers on or off before reaching your destination. Also, unexpected delays occur for many reasons including; road construction and bad weather. Therefore, to allow extra time, the dispatcher will schedule your pickup for 30 to 45 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. 6 Rider Responsibilities It is PAT Paratransit policy and responsibility to ensure safe, timely, and effective transportation for all Paratransit riders. As a rider, you are responsible to ensure that everyone receives the safest and best ride possible. The following is a list of rider responsibilities. PAT Paratransit reserves the right to deny service when a rider does not comply with any of these responsibilities. Additionally, the following list is not exhaustive. 1) You should be ready at least ten (10) minutes before your scheduled trip; watch for your PAT Paratransit vehicle. Note* If PAT vehicle arrives at your scheduled pickup time and you are not ready, the operator is authorized to wait five (5) minutes and will leave; you will miss your trip and be counted as a no-show. °t 2) If for any reason you cannot ride PAT Paratransit vehicle for one of our scheduled trips, call the dispatcher by 4:00 pm on the day before and cancel your trip. If you do not know a day ahead of your scheduled trip, you must call at least one (1) day before your scheduled trip(s). If we arrive and you do not keep your scheduled trip, you will be considered a NO SHOW. Note* Call the dispatcher as far ahead as possible to cancel rides. 3) If you are being picked up in a large building, wait at the entrance that you and the PAT dispatcher have agreed upon. Normally, the PAT operator will pick you up at the main entrance or lobby to the building. 4) The package provision states that you can transport only the amount of packages that you can safely carry when riding in a PAT Paratransit vehicle. 5) If you need more assistance than door-to-door transportation, for example: if you need someone to walk you into the doctor's office, help you be seated for lunch, or help with your packages, etc., it is your responsibility to provide a Personal Care Attendant or a companion to help you with the above. 6) You must carry the exact change ($2.00) or passes when traveling via PAT Paratransit. Note* Put the exact fare in the farebox or give the operator a pass before you take your seat. 7 7) All riders are expected to use appropriate social behavior while riding PAT vehicles and when interacting with other riders or PAT employees. All riders have the right to travel on PAT vehicles with the maximum personal comfort and without the threat of physical or verbal abuse. 8) All riders must comply with PAT safety rules including no smoking, eating, or drinking. Also, you cannot ride PAT vehicles if you are under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Please cooperate with the operators and follow their instructions. 9) Notify the PAT Paratransit Service dispatcher when you have a change of address or phone number. 10) Once you board PAT Paratransit vehicle, your destination cannot be changed without dispatcher approval. 11) Children weighing forty (40) pounds or less must travel in an approved infant seat supplied by the attending adult. Children may not ride on a passenger's lap. The attending adult is responsible for securing the infant seat and shall board and de-board both the child an. seat jibe PAT Paratransit Phone Numbers: 409-983-8794 or 409-983-8248 �' ' You may contact PAT Paratransit Services at the numbers listed above fort the following: 1) Trip reservations or cancellations. 2) Information about eligibility. 3) Immediate problems, ex. vehicle not arriving on time. 4) Any other transit related questions or concerns. Comments are Welcome! Please feel free to address your comments or concerns to: PAT Paratransit Coordinator P.O. Box 1089 Port Arthur, Texas 77641-1089 Please include all pertinent information, specifically: • Name, Address, and Phone Number • Date and Time of Incident • PAT vehicle number and/or the Operators Name 8 PAT Paratransit Service Suspension Policy PAT is committed to provide quality specialized public transportation via the Paratransit service for the elderly and disabled citizens of Port Arthur. PAT will make every reasonable effort to accommodate their various conditions. However, there are occasions where the use of PAT Paratransit service is abused by individual riders; if this occurs on a repeated basis, it may necessitate denial of service for those individuals. Criteria for Suspension of Service 1) Verbal or physical abuse toward a PAT employee or rider. 2) Lateness: not ready for a scheduled trip. After five (5) minutes, the PAT Operator will leave and the rider will become a no-show. If the operator is early, he/she will wait five (5) minutes after the scheduled pick-up time before considering a rider late. toifi 3) No-Show: a pattern/practice of not being present or ready to depart within five (5) minutes of the scheduled time. Two (2) no-show infractions in one week, or four (4) in a thirty (30) day period, will result in a maximum thirty (30) day suspension. Trips missed by a person for reasons beyond his/her control (including trips missed due to PAT error) shall not be used for determining that such pattern/practice exists. 4) Cancellation: Trips which are repeatedly canceled within one (1) hour of the scheduled pick-up time will be considered a no-show. 5) Behavior: Any behavior which presents danger to an individual's health or safety, or to others within the vehicle. Such behavior includes conduct which is violent, seriously disruptive, or illegal. Procedure for Suspension of Service The following disciplinary procedures will be utilized before suspending PAT Paratransit Service. All communications to the individual will be in accessible format. 1) All incidents will be completely documented. 2) PAT management will communicate verbally with the individual and/or his/her representative explaining the infractions and requesting corrective action. This verbal session will also include an opportunity for the individual and/or his/her representative to respond. 3) As a follow-up to the verbal communication, a written warning shall be sent via certified mail. The warning will state the specific basis for the proposed suspension and the nature and extent of the proposed sanction if the infractions do not cease immediately. 4) All written communications will be reviewed prior to mailing by more than one (1) member of PAT management staff. 5) PAT reserves the right to immediately refuse service to an individual when necessary to protect the health and safety of citizens and PAT employees. 9 PAT Client ID# Date Entered Port Arthur Transit 444 4th Street, Suite 201 Annex Bldg. Processed By P.O. Box 1089 Port Arthur,TX 77640 INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE PROCESSED ADA Paratransit Application If you have a disability which prevents you from using PAT fixed route buses, please complete this form and then call ADA Paratransit Certification line at 409.983.8248 to schedule an in-person interview. Bring this form, and bring a photo ID to the interview. Please read the attached instructions before completing this form. If you have questions about the services or eligibility, please call the ADA Paratransit Certification Office at the number listed above. I. General Information (Please Print) Social Security Number Birthdate (PAT uses Social Security Numbers only as a way to track applications and for possible federal or state funding for ADA Paratransit services. If you do not provide a Social Security Number, we will assign another number to your application). First Name Middle Initial Last Name Sex: M F Street Address Apt# City State Zip Phone (daytime) (evening) Mailing Address (if different) City State Zip Email Address (optional) 1 II. Disability and Mobility Equipment Information (Please Print) Please describe the disability or health condition that prevents you from using fixed route buses. (Please list all disabilities or health conditions that apply). It may be helpful to bring documentation of your health condition or disability to the interview along with this completed application form. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE PROCESSED If this is a temporary disability or health condition, how long do you expect it to prevent you from using fixed route buses? months Do you use any of these mobility aids or equipment? (Check all that apply). _cane powered wheelchair crutches powered scooter _walker manual wheelchair leg brace long white cane prosthesis service animal portable oxygen other(please specify) _I do not use any of these mobility aids Do you ever need to bring someone with you to help when you travel(a"personal care assistant" or personal attendant")? Yes,always Yes,sometimes No 2 III. Abilities to Use Fixed Route Buses Please read the following statements and check those which best describe your abilities to use fixed route buses. (Check all that apply). Fixed Route Buses mean the large transit buses operating on set routes by PAT. I can get to and from bus stops if the distance is not too great. I can ride the bus when I am feeling well. However, there are other times when my disability or health condition worsens where I cannot ride the bus. I have a disability or health condition that prevents me from riding the bus if the weather is too hot or too cold. My disability or health condition makes it impossible to travel when there is snow or ice on the ground. I cannot climb stairs to get on and off fixed route buses. I can get to and from bus stops only if there are curb-cuts and level sidewalks. I have difficulty understanding or remembering all the things I would have to do to use the bus. I can use fixed route buses if it is someplace I go all the time. I can never use fixed route buses by myself. I am not really sure if I can use fixed route buses. I am not able to use fixed route buses for other reasons. Please explain: 3 IV.. Please Give Us More Information About Your Functional Abilities Without the help of someone else can you... 1. Ask for and understand written or spoken instructions? _Always Sometimes Never _Not sure 2. Cross the street? Always _Sometimes Never _Not sure 3. Stand for 10 minutes if there is no place to sit? _Always Sometimes Never _Not sure 4. Step on and off a sidewalk from the curb? _Always _Sometimes Never Not sure 5. Find your own way to the bus stop if someone shows you the way once? _Always _Sometimes Never _Not sure 6. Walk up and down three steps if there is a handrail? Always Sometimes Never _Not sure 7. Walk up and down a flight of 10-12 stairs if there is a handrail? _Always _Sometimes Never _Not sure 8. Stand on a moving bus holding onto a handrail? Always _Sometimes Never _Not sure 9. Transfer from one fixed route bus to another bus? _Always _Sometimes Never Not sure Under the best of conditions,what is the farthest you can walk outdoors (or travel using your mobility aid)without the help of another person? Less than 1 block _6 blocks (3/4 mile) — 1 block _More than 6 blocks 2 blocks (1/4 mile) I cannot travel outdoors alone at all 4 blocks (1/2 mile) Have you ever had training to learn how to travel around the community, or on how to use fixed route buses? Yes No 4 Would you like information about free training to use fixed route buses? Yes No Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your disability or health condition that might help us better understand your travel abilities and limitations? 5 V. Please Give Us Information About Where you Go And How You Get There Now. List the three places you go most often and how you get there now. 1. Where do you go? Address How often do you go there ? How do you get there now? 2. Where do you go? Address How often do you go there ? How do you get there now ? 3. Where do you go? Address How often do you go there ? How do you get there now ? Do you currently use fixed route buses at all? No Yes If yes, Which routes? When was the last time you used fixed route buses? If you have used fixed route buses in the past and have stopped using them, please explain why: INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE PROCESSED 6 VI. Signature: Please Complete Box A Unless You Are A Minor Or Have A Legal Guardian, In Which Case Your Parent or Legal Guardian Should Complete Box B. A. I understand that the purpose of this application is to determine if I am eligible to use ADA Paratransit Services. I certify that the information provided in this application is true and correct. I further understand that falsification of information could result in a loss of ADA Paratransit Services, as well as a penalty under the law. I agree to notify PAT if I no longer need to use ADA Paratransit Services. Date (Signature of Applicant) B. I understand that the purpose of this application is to determine if I am eligible to use ADA Paratransit Services. I certify that the information provided in this application is true and correct. I further understand that falsification of information could result in a loss of ADA Paratransit Services, as well as a penalty under the law. I agree to notify PAT if I no longer need to use ADA Paratransit Services. I consent to the Applicant's interview and functional assessment of his/her travel abilities and limitations to determine ADA Paratransit Service eligibility. I understand that the Applicant must be present for the interview and any recommended functional assessment. I acknowledge that I may be present with the Applicant during the interview and any functional assessment, and state that: (Check one of the following) I will be present I designate to be present on my behalf, or I waive my right to be present and do not designate another person on my behalf. Date (Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian) 7 { 3 If someone assisted in completing this application, please provide the following information: • Print Name Relationship to applicant Address Agency Phone ( ) Once you have completed this application, call the ADA Paratransit Certification program at 409-983-8248 to schedule an in person interview. DO NOT MAIL this application back to PAT. If We Need Additional Information In order for PAT to evaluate your request for eligibility, it may be helpful for us to contact a professional who is familiar with your health condition or disability and your functional abilities and limitations. Please list one or two professionals who we can contact if we need additional information. Examples of Qualified Professionals include: Physician(M.D. or D.O.) Registered Nurse Physical or Occupational Therapist Ophthalmologist Orientation and Mobility Instructor Psychiatrist Independent Living Specialist Psychologist Rehabilitation Specialist Case Manager Social Worker (Name of Qualified Professional) (Name of Qualified Professional) (Type of Professional) (Type of Professional) Street Address Street Address City, State, &Zip City, State, &Zip ( ) ( ) Phone Number Phone Number 8 1 Appendix B Port Arthur Transit System Appeal of Denial of Eligibility Anyone disputing a denial of ADA Paratransit eligibility has the right to appeal within 30 days of the notification of denial (date of postmark shall be the official date for the purpose of this process). Throughout the appeal process, the appellant will have the right to be represented by an individual of his/her choice. Translation and signing services for the hearing impaired will be provided during the hearing upon request. Notification of the determination made in the appeal process will be mailed (certified) to the appellant in accessible format upon request. If a determination is not made within thirty (30) days after the initial appeal is filed, the individual will be presumed eligible for Paratransit service until a final determination is made. The following steps are required to be taken by PAT when an individual has been denied ADA Paratransit eligibility: 1) An appeal must be scheduled and heard. An investigation of the facts presented will be conducted with proposed actions to resolve the appeal. The appellant will be notified .... within ten (10) working days concerning the recommended resolution. 1 2) Should the appellant be unsatisfied with the proposed resolution, he/she may contact the Title VI Coordinator for the City of Port Arthur. The Title VI Coordinator along with a representative of the ADA Advisory Committee will send a written determination stating their decision and reasons within ten (10) working days of receiving the appeal to the appellant and PAT Management staff. 3) Should the appellant be unsatisfied with the Title VI Coordinator's proposed resolution, he/she may contact the City Manager, within ten(10) days after receiving an unfavorable decision on appeal. The City Manager will then forward a written decision within fifteen (15) working days to the appellant, Port Arthur Transit Department. 4) The appellant has the right to make a written appeal at any time within sixty (60) days of the alleged discrimination to the City of Port Arthur Transit Department to the attention of the Title VI Coordinator. If either party wishes, the appeal may be presented in the presence of a third party mediator from the Public Service Sector or any other service agency. Any sanction will be stayed pending the outcome of the appeal. 5) If the appellant is unsatisfied with the City of Port Arthur Transit Department determination,the appellant may file private action in Federal District Court. Appendix C Port Arthur Transit System Appeal of Suspension of Services Anyone disputing a suspension of ADA Paratransit service have the right to appeal within 30 days of receiving a "Notice of Intent to Suspend Service" (date of the postmark shall be the official date for the purpose of this process). Throughout the appeal process, the appellant shall have the right to be represented by an individual of his/her choice. Translation services and signing services for the hearing impaired will be provided during the hearing upon request. Notification of the determination made in the appeal process will be mailed (certified mail) to the appellant in accessible format upon request. If a determination is not be made within 30 daysafter the initial appeal is filed, the individual will be presumed eligible for Paratransit service until a final determination is made. The following steps may be taken by an individual who has had service suspended: 1. An appeal must be filed in writing with the Title VI Coordinator. An investigation of the facts presented will be conducted with proposed actions to resolve the appeal. The appellant will be notified concerning the recommended resolution within ten (10) working days. 2. If the appellant is not satisfied with the proposed resolution, he/she may contact the Transit Director. The Transit Director along with a representative of the ADA Advisory Committee will send a written determination stating their decision and the reasons for it,within ten (10) working days of receiving the appeal to the appellant and the PAT management staff. 3. Should the appellant be unsatisfied with the Transit Director's proposed resolution, he/she may contact the City Manager within ten (10) days after receiving an unfavorable decision on the appeal. Then, the City Manager will forward a written decision within fifteen (15) working days to the appellant, Port Arthur Transit, the Office of Civil Rights for further action and determination. 4. The appellant has the right to make a written appeal at any time within sixty (60) days of the alleged discrimination to the Office of Civil Rights within the Department of Justice (DOJ). If either party wishes, the appeal may be presented in the presence of a third party from the public or private sector, or any other service agency. Any sanction will be stayed pending the outcome of the appeal. 5. If the appellant is unsatisfied with the City of Port Arthur, Transit Department, or the Department of Justice (DOJ) determination, the appellant may file private action in Federal District Court. Appendix D Port Arthur Transit System Complaint Process Anyone who has experienced or witnessed an alleged act of discrimination. by the Port Arthur Transit (PAT) Elderly, or the Americans with Disabilities • Act (ADA) Paratransit Program considered objectionable to Section 504 Regulations, of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, may use the following steps to register theircomplaint: 1. A complaint must be filed in writing with the Title VI Coordinator of the City of Port Arthur within thirty (30) days of the alleged action. An investigation of the facts presented will be conducted, with proposed actions to resolve the complaint. The complainant will be notified concerning the recommended resolution. 2. Should the complainant be unsatisfied with the proposed resolution, he/she may contact the Title VI Coordinator of the City of Port Arthur. The Title VI Coordinator, along with a representative of the ADA Advisory Committee, will send a written determination, stating their decision and the reasons for it, within ten (10) working days of receiving the complaint, to the complainant and PAT Management staff. 3. Should the complainant be unsatisfied with the Title VI Coordinator's proposed resolution, he/she may contact the City Manager, within ten (10) days after receiving an unfavorable decision on the complaint. The City Manager will forward a written decision, within fifteen (15)working days, to the complainant, Port Arthur Transit, the Office of Civil Rights within the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Region VI for further action and determination. 4. The complainant has the right to make a written appeal at any time within sixty (60) days of the alleged discrimination to DOJ. If either party wishes, the appeal may be presented in the presence of a third party mediator from the public or private service sector or any other service agency. 5. Should the complainant be unsatisfied with the City of Port Arthur Transit, or the Department of Justice determination, the complainant may file private action in Federal District Court.