In keeping with SunLine Transit Agency`s environmentally

In keeping with SunLine Transit Agency’s environmentally conscientious public transit
program evidenced in our entire fleet of alternative fueled buses, we further extend our
commitment to the safe guarding of the environment through responsible business practices
such as the development and production of our 2008 Annual Report.
This annual report is printed on the following eco-friendly papers:
Cover stock - 100% Recycled, 30% Post consumer fibers, FSC Certified, Green Seal Certified.
Text stock - FSC Certified, Mixed post consumer fibers, manufactured chlorine free.
FSC Certification
Ensures that the paper meets the Forest Stewardship Council‘s standards for well-managed
forests and the responsible use of forest resources.
Green Seal Certification
Certifies that recycled papers are made with a minimum of 30% post consumer fiber and that
the mill process, including packaging, are environmentally preferable.
SunLine Transit Agency
Annual Report FY 2008
Vision Statement
SunLine Transit Agency is the regional transportation
mode of choice.
Mission Statement
To provide environmentally conscious public
transportation services and alternative fuel solutions
to meet the mobility needs of the Coachella Valley.
Agency Goals
• To provide dynamic organizational leadership
and change consistent with the growth of the
transit agency.
• To continue the advancement of innovations
in transportation
technologies.
and
in
alternative
fuel
• To provide leadership for the region’s mobility
needs.
• To provide high quality transportation services
that are safe, efficient and effective.
Board of Directors
Bud England, Chairman, City of Cathedral City
Steve Pougnet, Vice Chairman, City of Palm Springs
Yvonne Parks, City of Desert Hot Springs
Alan Seman, City of Rancho Mirage
Robert Spiegel, City of Palm Desert
Douglas Hanson, City of Indian Wells
Don Adolph, City of La Quinta
Lupe Ramos Watson, City of Indio
Eduardo Garcia, City of Coachella
Roy Wilson, County of Riverside
Letter from the Chairman of the Board and General Manager
A Year of “Change”! We are in a period of time when people are hungry for positive change. SunLine Transit
Agency has been a leader in forging through adversity with the end result, “change”.
FY 2008 has proved to be a continuing path of celebrated accomplishments. An Agency goal, “To provide
dynamic organizational leadership and change consistent with the growth of the transit agency” has
been demonstrated throughout FY 2008 by the SunLine Board of Directors, the Agency Executive Team
and staff. The completion of the Bus Replacement and Expansion Program, providing technologically
advanced compressed natural gas powered buses, sporting SunLine’s signature water-drop design, was
the highlight of changes that took place this year. Service improvements enhancing existing routes with
increased frequency and expanded service to include weekend service have been well received by our
riders on our path of growth. The Agency continues to demonstrate its focus on financial integrity as
documented in a yearly audit conducted by an outside organization. In addition, security enhancements,
an upgrade to our SunFuels fueling station, and recognition by industry organizations further evidence
SunLine’s commitment to “change” and to the community.
As a public agency, SunLine takes on the responsibility of not only providing safe, reliable, transportation
using the latest in alternative fueled vehicles, but further supports the community by partnering with
SafeHouse of the Desert and providing a safe place on the SunBus for youth in crisis, sponsoring an annual
“Fill-a-Bus” food drive benefiting those less fortunate, as well as educating Valley decision makers on the
importance of public transit through the “State of Public Transit” Luncheon Forum.
The SunLine Board of Directors, along with SunLine staff, is committed to “change” that provides
opportunities to fulfill the Mission of the Agency – “To provide environmentally conscious
public transportation services and alternative fuel solutions to meet the mobility needs of the
Coachella Valley”.
Charles “Bud” England
Chairman of the Board
C. Mikel Oglesby
General Manager
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A Year of “Change”
Fiscal Year 2008 has been a year of “change” for SunLine
Transit Agency with the unveiling of replacement
and expansion non-revenue vehicles, fixed route and
paratransit buses, sporting a fresh new look and logo.
The Agency focused on “changing” the perception of
transit in the eyes of those who are reluctant to ride.
as well as elderly riders. On-board surveillance
cameras represent another upgrade, with continuous
monitoring by SunLine security personnel as an added
measure of security.
The new fleet of technologically advanced, lowemission, compressed natural gas (CNG) powered
buses, along with the Agency’s new SunDial paratransit
vehicles, give the fleet its first major makeover in
14 years.
New Vehicles Unveiled
On June 3rd, as Valley residents began their day,
they couldn’t help but notice two caravans of newly
designed, environmentally friendly, alternative fueled
vehicles, “quietly” making their way through the Valley,
converging into Palm Desert where the SunLine Board
of Directors, local dignitaries, staff and excited riders
celebrated their arrival at an unveiling ceremony. The
new vehicles feature SunLine’s signature water-drop
design, symbolizing SunLine’s leadership in the green
transportation movement. As part of the unveiling
celebration, free rides were offered for one day to all
passengers on the new buses.
Service Enhancements
As part of a Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA)
conducted in 2005/2006, existing amenities located at
bus stops were evaluated to determine how to improve
the appearance of the bus stops. Recommendations
were made to develop better spacing standards for
existing and new bus stops, install more bus shelters
and benches, and develop a Transit Facilities Design
Manual to help developers and local jurisdictions
on placement of transit amenities. In FY 2008, staff
has completed a number of the recommendations.
SunLine purchased and installed 150 stand alone bus
benches and trash receptacles, and 110 solar powered
i-Stops (bus stop lighting) throughout the service area
for the comfort and safety of the riders.
The 40-foot buses feature a low-floor design and
straight-in wheelchair access, avoiding the need for
time-consuming electronic lifts. The new SunBus offers
more convenience for passengers with disabilities,
Service enhancements to existing routes included
frequency improvements on the Line 111 from 25 to
20 minutes, realignment of the Line 70 to serve new
retail and commercial centers in the City of La Quinta,
as well as frequency improvements and expansion of
service to include weekends on the Line 31. Frequency
improvements were also made on the Line 91, with
additional trips added.
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Safety & Security
Being the Coachella Valley’s go-to source for public
transportation carries a huge responsibility. Nowhere
is that taken more seriously than by SunLine’s Safety
Committee. The Safety Committee works hard to create
a safe environment within the Agency, on each bus, and
into the entire community.
A Team Safety Incentive Program was implemented
to reduce collisions and worker’s compensation
accidents for all Agency employees, customers and
the general public, as well as to raise the overall safety
awareness, safety performance and commitment to
safety by all SunLine Transit employees. Employees
are rewarded based on “Team Safe” performance and
accomplishments. The effects of SunLine’s focus on
safety are evidenced in the decrease of collisions and
injuries by 19% in FY 2008.
Millar, President of the American Public Transportation
Association, captivated attendees at the Luncheon,
conveying his worldly knowledge of transportation and
the possibilities of improved transit in the Coachella
Valley. Mr. Millar applauded community leaders for
supporting SunLine’s leadership role in promoting
alternative fuels, and encouraged leaders to include, in
their strategic planning, more local investment in transit
development. In addition, Russ Chisholm, President
of Transportation and Management Design, Inc.,
presented an overview of SunLine’s Comprehensive
Operational Analysis (COA), which analyzed the
performance of SunLine’s fixed-route and paratransit
service, and the recommendations of the COA which
includes operational changes aimed at enhancing
existing transit services, as well as implementing new
service routes. The attendees left the Luncheon Forum
better informed about public transit and of SunLine’s
array of transit services.
With the installation of video cameras aboard the
new buses, technology has played a major role in
the Agency’s safety efforts. The video cameras have
enhanced the ability to monitor actions on the bus.
In addition, these cameras have captured evidence
of criminal activity outside of the bus, providing law
enforcement with key information in solving a case.
SunLine joined the nation in focusing on safety during
the National Safety Month by hosting a BBQ for the
employees providing additional safety tips, and some
great food. Safety truly is a number one priority at
SunLine Transit Agency.
Educating the Community
A First Responder Training was held at the Agency for
the California Fire Desert Training Center & Riverside
County Fire Department and was specific in dealing
As the provider of public transit to the Coachella
Valley, the responsibility for educating residents, riders
and the decision makers of the community about the
importance of transit falls upon the Agency. SunLine
developed and implemented a number of education
programs in FY 2008 to inform the community and to
ensure awareness and understanding of how to access
the various services provided.
SunLine hosted its first annual “State of Public Transit”
Luncheon Forum, drawing a sell-out crowd interested
in learning more about the Agency’s current and
future transit developments. Keynote speaker, William
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with hydrogen fuel cell vehicle emergencies. SunLine
was able to share knowledge and experience of
hydrogen technology with local fire fighters.
The participants of this training left with a better
understanding of handling hydrogen specific
emergencies to SunLine’s vehicles and fuel station.
The Agency continues its assistance to the community
in other ways, from participating in the Riverside
County Disaster Preparedness program, to assisting in
an evacuation during a chemical fire accident. SunLine
has worked with local fire and law enforcement to
provide transportation and mobile “cool down” buses
in emergencies. Improved response protocols and
procedures demonstrated the Agency’s readiness
to handle large-scale transportation needs and
emergencies.
As part of an ongoing education program, SunLine
outreaches to community organizations throughout
the Valley providing comprehensive transportation
information including bus routes, how to ride
SunBus, location of pass locations, eligibility criteria
for paratransit service, and customer service contact
numbers. Organizations receiving this education were
schools, senior centers, health centers, social services
agencies, residential facilities, and others amounting to
more than 10,000 people serviced through community
outreach in 2008.
Employee Supported Community Events
Once again, SunLine’s involvement in community
events was recognized with an award. Judges of the
annual Palm Desert Golf Cart parade honored SunLine
for its parade entry with the Chairman’s Award, the 2nd
top award of all categories. SunLine employees worked
diligently to create a prideful entry!
Community Assistance
The focus of the Agency on the community goes
beyond providing transit and was demonstrated in
a big way during these difficult economic times. The
Agency’s first annual “Fill-a-Bus” charity event was never
more appreciated and was a huge success. SunLine’s
hydrogen fuel cell bus was staged at various locations
throughout the Valley and received overwhelming
contributions of canned goods and other perishable
items. The volunteers from the Coachella Valley Rescue
Mission, the organization receiving the donations, were
thrilled with the response of the community and were
extremely grateful to SunLine.
The SunLine hydrogen fuel cell bus made its way
through the streets of Palm Springs in the Black History
Month parade, acknowledging the accomplishments
of African Americans, many of whom have positively
affected transit.
SunLine employees participated in the annual “Tour
de Palm Springs” bike event traveling the streets of the
Valley. Fifteen riders from the Agency participated and
completed the 25 mile route.
In
FY
2008,
SunLine
collaborated with SafeHouse
of the Desert, an organization
dedicated to the well being
of youth in crisis, to provide
mobile Safe Place sites around
the Coachella Valley. SunLine
has designated all fixed route
buses as Safe Place sites, and
facilitates the transport of the
youth in crisis to the Operation
SafeHouse facility.
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Agency Recognition
seven days a week. SunLine has established itself as one
of the chief architects of Governor Schwarzenegger’s
“Hydrogen Highway.”
Recognition by a transit industry organization is a good
measurement of the success of an Agency. In FY 2008,
SunLine received validation with an award given by
the California Transit Association. The award, the “2007
California Transit Association’s Small Operator’s Transit
Excellence Award for its outstanding contributions in its
promotion of a positive image of public transit services”
is yet another indicator of the continued progress of
the Agency.
Continuing Down the Road
of Hydrogen
SunLine continues to demonstrate the feasibility of
commercialization of hydrogen technology. SunLine’s
two cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell buses, the
Hydrogen Hybrid Internal Combustion Engine bus
(HHICE) and the Hydrogen Hybrid Fuel Cell bus, have
jointly logged over 150,000 miles in revenue service,
holding up to the rigorous daily service demands.
These buses travel approximately 200 miles per day
throughout the Valley.
SunLine captured top honors in two categories in the
American Public Transportation Association’s annual
AdWheel Awards competition. APTA recognized
SunLine’s Annual Report, which highlighted SunLine’s
continued leadership in alternative-fueled public
transit, as well as detailing an array of accomplishments
over the 12-month period. Additionally, SunLine was
recognized for its advertisement and promotion for
the SunLine “Let’s Go” Ad – the student summer pass
program. More than 750 entries were received in this
competition.
SunLine continues to look to the future, working with
the Federal Transit Administration and government
legislators, to acquire technologically advanced,
environmentally friendly vehicles, which includes
the first all-American designed and manufactured
hydrogen bus.
SunFuels - Pay at the Pump
As the Country looks to end its dependence on foreign
fuel, SunLine is a step ahead as owner of SunFuels, the
“first” public refueling station with three alternative
types of fuels (CNG, HCNG, and Hydrogen). In FY 2008,
new credit card reader technology was installed at the
Thousand Palms facility providing customers the ability
to charge their gas purchase. A site-specific training
video at the dispenser educates operators on the use
of the new system providing unattended access to the
refueling station which is accessible 24 hours a day,
7
Accounting Accountability
Those who remember the dire financial state of SunLine just
five years ago, under past administration, can appreciate the
continuing successes generated from the high standards
and ethical practices instituted under the leadership of
General Manager, C. Mikel Oglesby, and the direction of the
SunLine Board of Directors. SunLine continues to receive
clean audits, with no findings, reflecting the dedication
and effort of all departments working together as a team.
Chairman of the Board, Bud England states “It’s obvious
we’ve come a long way over the last few years to get a nice,
clean bill of health”.
FY 2008
FY 2007
Variance FY 2008 vs
FY 2007 Fav/(Unfav)
2,892,630
2,801,507
91,123
CNG Revenues
790,788
543,440
247,348
Other Revenue
205,330
276,516
(71,186)
Actual Revenue:
Passenger Fares
Local Transportation Fund/Other Income
10,282,318
9,246,237
1,036,081
FTA Funds
1,898,121
948,067
950,054
Measure A
3,739,000
4,504,186
(765,186)
196,456
200,347
(3,891)
20,004,643
20,369,283
(364,640)
18,520,300
19,340,505
(820,205)
1,484,343
Salaries
9,313,091
8,495,938
(817,153)
Fringe
5,739,147
5,524,206
(214,941)
767,056
934,059
167,003
Interest Income
Actual Total Revenue
Budget
Variance to Budget Fav/(Unfav)
Actual Expenses:
Other Material & Supplies
Services
1,142,118
990,805
(151,313)
Fuel & Lubricants
1,591,246
1,303,412
(287,834)
Casuality & Liability Cost
490,285
569,534
79,249
Miscellaneous Expenses
370,583
297,420
(73,163)
Utilities
424,686
235,802
(188,884)
Tires & Tubes
144,274
137,605
(6,669)
22,171
30,670
8,499
20,004,657
20,369,283
364,626
18,519,451
19,340,505
821,054
(1,485,206)
(14)
849
Taxes
Operating expenses
Budget
Variance to Budget Fav/(Unfav)
Operating Income (Loss)
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Statement of Financial Condition
SunLine continues to maintain rigorous accounting
and financial standards, as required by its status as a
publicly funded Joint Powers Authority.
Data reflects operational activities between July 1, 2007
– June 30, 2008.
SunLine Quick Facts FY 2008
Board Members
10
Employees
271
Fixed Route Ridership
3,402,565
Demand Response Ridership
85,461
Passenger Miles
21,667,952
System Wide Revenue Miles
2,585,336
Service Area (Square Miles)
1,120
Service Area Population 411,997
Number of Bus Stops
536
Operating Expenses
$20,369,283
Fixed Route Fleet
51
Demand Response Fleet
27
9
Work/Life Balance
Twice a week two of SunLine’s Directors lead
participants in an exercise class. The General Manager
has actively participated in the program, and has been
a “guest” instructor of the exercise classes.
Innovative practices in maintaining high employee
morale were apparent in FY 2008 by programs and
events created within the Agency. Acknowledging
the importance of diversity, the Agency invited all
employees to participate in celebrations, such as the
Black History Month BBQ, Cinco de Mayo feast, and
other holiday events celebrating the differences that
unite. As a gesture of appreciation for the hard work
and dedication of each employee of the Agency, the
General Manager and Directors prepared and served
breakfast at both divisions. A barbeque for all SunLine
employees and their families took place at a local park
with games and other activities for children and adults.
It was a time to relax, enjoy the beautiful weather, the
great food and music, and the camaraderie that exists
among the SunLine family.
Coming soon in 2009
State of the art fare collection system.
Another innovative program contributing to the health
and well being of all employees is the “Weight-NoMore” program. The eight-week program, which is held
three times during the year, is comprised of employees
divided into teams, all working together to create a
healthy lifestyle through exercise classes and nutritious
recipes. All employees in the Agency are provided with
valuable information on health issues in a newsletter.
Healthnet, the Agency’s healthcare provider, supports
the program, providing incentives to participants.
This annual report is printed on the following eco-friendly
papers.
Cover stock - 100% Recycled, 30% Post consumer fibers,
FSC Certified, Green Seal Certified.
Text stock - FSC Certified, Mixed post consumer fibers,
Manufactured chlorine free.
FSC Certification
Ensures that the paper meets the Forest Stewardship Council‘s
standards for well-managed forests and the responsible use
of forest resources.
Green Seal Certification
Certifies that recycled papers are made with a minimum of
30% post consumer fiber and that the mill process, including
packaging, are environmentally preferable.
design by thestudiops.com
10
SunLine Service Area
With service to more than 14 different communities
scattered through eastern Riverside County, SunLine
Transit Agency serves as the public transportation
lifeline for the Coachella Valley. Drivers today carry
more than six times as many passengers as their
counterparts did 30 years ago, based on annual
ridership counts. The increased demand prompts
SunLine officials to continually monitor load factors,
right-of-ways and other logistics to ensure the system
operates at peak performance.
SunLine Transit Agency
32-505 Harry Oliver Trail
Thousand Palms, CA 92276
1-800-347-8628
www.sunline.org