Chairman Spychalski asked about the reduction in safety and training and if the savings is worth the loss of the benefits to employees. Ms. Minor explained the annual safety, stress and sensitivity training for employees and the costs of holding these sessions, noting that this is not a required training, but simply an extra benefit offered to employees the past several years. In response to Mr. Davidson, Mr. Gilbert noted that several years ago the insurance carrier conducted a seminar and it was, in his estimation, one of the poorest sessions he has ever attended. In response to Mr. Sherman, Mr. Gilbert noted that there have been about 15 new drivers hired since the last training session. Mr. Gilbert added that many of the older drivers feel this is one of the things that could be cut to reduce expenses, since much of the training is repeated each year.
All new drivers do receive safety and sensitivity training during their initial instruction.
In response to Mr. Powers, Mr. Gilbert also noted that the Safety Committee has not met regularly because there are few safety issues to discuss. Any safety issues that arise are addressed quickly. Mr. Gilbert also added that even the state safety conferences do not relate to bus drivers and transit issues. Chairman Spychalski suggested having training seminars for at least the new employees. Mr. Mose noted that he supports the training sessions, but agrees that setting aside this training for all employees for one year would not be a problem.