Cache County Council Workshop Meeting – 06-23-2026

- The main presentation focused on the Utah Developmental Disabilities Council’s mission and its current state plan goal of expanding access to accessible, affordable transportation for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They described the council as a federally funded state entity that supports self-directed, community-based living. - Speakers emphasized that transportation is a major barrier to independence, community participation, and mental health, especially in rural areas. They noted that many people struggle to reach medical appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, and recreational/community events. - The council shared statewide survey findings showing widespread transportation gaps, including limited sidewalks, curb cuts, and transit access. They stressed that rural counties often need innovative alternatives to fixed-route transit, such as voucher programs, mobility management, and mileage reimbursement. - County and regional transportation programs were discussed as models, including Connect Transit, BRAG’s Lifeline Mobility program, and nonprofit options like Susie’s. BRAG explained that it helps residents with travel training, paratransit applications, and reimbursement for eligible rides, often using family members or volunteers as drivers. - Council members asked how the programs serve seniors and homebound residents, and the presenters said aging adults are not the council’s primary target but are closely overlapping and often addressed through partnerships with aging services. They also noted that door-to-door, accessible transportation can better serve seniors and people with mobility challenges than curb-to-curb service. - Funding questions centered on whether the council receives state money, how federal funding may be affected, and who can apply for grants. The presenters said the council is 100% federally funded, has remained level funded for the next fiscal year, and awards competitive grants to eligible entities with a tax ID, including counties and nonprofits. - The council discussed possible collaboration with BRAG and the county grant writer to pursue transportation-related grant opportunities. Staff indicated the county could potentially leverage council funding to build transportation capacity and support innovative local solutions. - A council member shared personal experience using BRAG’s transportation reimbursement after hip surgery and while taking a son to appointments, underscoring the program’s practical value. Another member noted that many residents still may not know the service exists and suggested broader distribution of information. - The meeting also highlighted that county support has already helped fund accessible vehicles for nonprofit transportation providers through prior funding tools. The presenters encouraged continued coordination so existing resources can be used more efficiently to improve transportation access.