WEST ST. PAUL, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DARTS, a nonprofit serving seniors and their families in Dakota County, was notified that the Metropolitan Council will terminate DARTS’ Metro Mobility and Transit Link contracts effective November 9, 2014.
Since 1989, under major funding from the Metropolitan Council and other smaller funding sources, DARTS has provided transportation services for residents of Dakota County; this history traces back to the founding of Metro Mobility and Transit Link services in the Twin Cities.
“We’re stunned by this decision, which seems like a sudden, harsh step in light of our long track record and recent, successful MnDOT inspections,” says Greg Konat, DARTS’ president and CEO. Along with Konat, other DARTS’ staff and board members argued strenuously against this decision.
Konat noted that DARTS had responded swiftly and decisively to address findings of an audit by the Metropolitan Council that he received on September 8. DARTS provided a corrective action plan ahead of the deadline and already completed approximately 80 percent of the requested changes. DARTS had committed to complete the remaining 20 percent of the changes by September 30.
Konat stated that DARTS is committed to re-building its transportation division with its own community fleet and personalized ride service. Moving ahead, Konat said DARTS’ main priority is to provide support for staff and clients during this transition. DARTS will work individually with everyone affected by this decision and offer personalized support. DARTS’ core values of Responsibility, Excellence, Collaboration and Service will continue to underscore its work, especially during times of change.
About DARTS: Since 1974, nonprofit DARTS has served seniors and their families in the southeast metro, helping seniors lead more independent and fulfilling lives. DARTS was originally an acronym (Dakota Area Resources and Transportation for Seniors) but the name was shortened to DARTS in 2008 as the services it offers expanded. More information can be found at www.darts1.org.
