ROUTE ENHANCEMENT COMMITTEE
FEBRUARY 23, 2008
DURAND UNION STATION
MINUTES

A short meeting of the committee was held following the regular monthly meeting to follow up on some of the things discussed by Gordon MacKay, President of Indian Trails, at the November meeting in Howell, and a subsequent meeting in Owosso on January 10, 2008, attended by Jim Wallington, Clark Charnetski, Kaz Fujita, Don Montieth and John Langdon.

Among points discussed and agreed upon were these:

-MARP supports a coordinated intercity transportation system and Indian Trails’ role in such a system. As to specific funding for Indian Trails, we will let IT speak for themselves, then follow their lead.

-As a means of understanding IT’s needs and wishes more fully, we will ask IT to share their priorities and vision with us.

-MARP supports IT’s Michigan Flyer service connecting Lansing, Jackson, and Ann Arbor with Detroit Metro Airport. We support their efforts to get proper signing and other appropriate recognition of their service by airport officials.

-MARP would support Indian Trails service, Port Huron-Detroit, particularly if it provided convenient connections with Amtrak in Detroit. At present, there is a connection between Port Huron Transit and SMART in Macomb County,

-MARP supports the extension of the current Lansing-Boyne Falls Indian Trails service into to city of Charlevoix, which currently has no intercity service. If that proves unlikely, MARP supports a local feeder bus connection, Boyne Falls-Charlevoix. Don Monteith is taking the lead on this issue.

-MARP supports an Indian Trails stop at or near the regional airport in Pellston. If the airport authorities do not support a connection at the airport, the nearby Holiday Inn Express is an alternative. Again, Don Monteith is taking the lead on this issue.

-MARP will assist Indian Trails in locating improved boarding points throughout Northern Michigan, assist in securing appropriate signing of those stops, and that the Amtrak timetable offers correct information as to the location of those stops.

-MARP will ask the Wisconsin Association of Railroad Passengers to request WisDOT to support the 180 mile portion of the Calumet-Milwaukee Indian Trails run in Wisconsin. If WisDOT funded the Wisconsin part of the service, funds might be freed up for a second, daylight run from Milwaukee to the Upper Peninsula. John Delora will ask Ken Burbank, a Wisconsin representative on the NARP Board, to bring this up with WisARP and WisDOT.

John Langdon reported that he had tested the Amtrak reservation system and that Houghton and points south are in the nationwide system including connections at Milwaukee with the Empire Builder.

As there are other issues to discuss concerning Indian Trails as well as follow up on many other Route Enhancement Recommendations, I would like to meet with REC members following the April 19 meeting in Standish, if time permits.

Hugh D. Gurney
Chair

MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
General Membership Meeting
Durand Union Station, Durand

February 23, 2008

Those Signing In: Hugh Gurney, Clark Charnetski, Michael Frezell, Don Monteith, Dick Pekarek, John Langdon, Rich Vavra-Musser, Philip Chamberlain, Norma Ward,

Bob Tischbein, Andrew Kent, Jim Hinkins, John Delora, Mike Whims, Steve Sobel, J. R. Valderas

1) Call to Order: Chairman Delora called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m.

2) Minutes of the January 12 meeting were reviewed, corrected, and approved.

3) Chairman’s Report: Chairman Delora alerted the group to the fact that the NARP Board of Trustees election was coming up. He moved that MARP’s organizational vote be for himself and for Dwight Phillips. The motion was seconded by Frezell and approved.

NARP REORGANIZATION: NARP has grown in recent years from 4,500 members to 24,500 members. For this reason and because of Board liability issues, a streamlining is being considered. It has been recommended that the current 80 member Board become more of an advisory Board of Delegates and provide the overall representation it currently does. The current Executive Committee would become the official governing body. Elections would be held on a state by state basis with at least one representative elected from each state to the advisory board. The existing regions would be abolished, possibly replaced by groups overseeing specific operations, such as the Northeast Corridor. Charnetski suggested an group organized around the Chicago Hub. NARP is looking for more coordination with the state ARP’s and regional organizations such as the Midwest High Speed Rail Association. Langdon reminded those present that it was the Environmental Law and Policy group that coordinated the successful push for a larger Amtrak presence in Illinois. He urged MARP to work with all advocating an expanded Midwest passenger rail net. Delora concluded by stating that all were welcome at the NARP Board meeting in Madison in July.

Delora reported that he had been keeping tabs on the on time performance of Train #354. Often this train is on time leaving Dearborn, but late into Detroit. Often when it is late, it is due to equipment problems. Snow gets into the engines on the Genesis locomotives. Sliding doors between the cars on the Horizon coaches freeze. Delora feels we should urge Amtrak to put Superliner equipment on all Michigan lines during the winter months as all run through the southwest Michigan snowbelt. Langdon confirmed that the Pere Marquette line has had Superliner equipment this past winter and avoided some of the problems Delora mentioned. The major drawback to the Superliners is that there is no business class.

Delora stated that it was time to set up regular meetings with the new Amtrak Central Division General Superintendent, Daryl Pesce. Pesce comes from the East Coast and has the reputation of being a no nonsense person. Discussion items would include on time performance, equipment, lack of checked baggage. Charnetski suggested that Amtrak test the California cars to see how they stand up to Midwest winter weather.

According to Delora, Amtrak has had one meeting with the state DOT’s about car designs. He feels MARP should meet with MDOT on this issue and urge them to listen to what the passengers are saying.

In response to Norma Ward’s question about Durand Railroad Days in May, Delora responded that MARP was hoping to have Amtrak bring an entire train set including a sleeping car for display. Whims and Delora will review possible locations in Durand for the display.

4) Executive Director’s Report: Whims reported that he had sent a letter on MARP’s behalf to the Surface Transportation Board concerning CN’s acquisition of the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern, asking that CN not disrupt Amtrak service into Chicago. MARP is asking for the Grand Crossing flyover to be completed before CN abandons its track into Union Station. CN has already modified its position somewhat, saying it won’t disrupt service until 2010.

Whims plans to speak at an Energy and Environment Seminar at Alma College on March 5. He will be discussing the possibility of rail passenger service from Ann Arbor and Howell to Traverse City, passing through Alma. Vavra-Musser felt sessions such as this at colleges and universities would be an excellent means of recruiting more young people to MARP.

5) Treasurer’s Report: Randall reported that as of January 31, 2008, the balance in the checking account was $7,330.94 and the value of the Pratt Fund was $14,685.06. Total dues coming in January were $4,025.00. With an aging membership, some have not renewed. Whims moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s report, seconded by Sobel, and approved.

6) Regional Chair Reports:

East/Central: Pekarek reported that on time performance of the Blue Water remains inconsistent. Ridership is up. Delora noted that ridership is up on all Michigan lines, but less than the national percentage. Frezell noted that a new ticket counter is being installed at the East Lansing station and he is looking for volunteers to repaint the area on March 15.

Metro: Whims stated he had nothing to report.

Northern: Kent stated that the condition of the track between Bay City and Standish was so bad that it may preclude some of the Small City Excursions. Trains may have to start in Standish or Pinconning. Monteith reported that Northern Arrow is planning two trips to Northern Michigan in 2008, one in June and one in August. A Chicago-Grand Rapids excursion is also planned plus a train to Charlevoix with a tour to Beaver Island.

Western: Langdon reported on a planned tour with vintage railroad cars attached to the Hiawatha from Chicago to Milwaukee, with passengers then crossing Lake Michigan to Muskegon by ferry, then bus to Holland, then back to Chicago by train. Vintage cars may also be attached to the Pere Marquette during Tulip Time in Holland. Amtrak is promoting the Amtrak Classic, where football fans will ride the Pere Marquette to Grand Rapids on March 14 to see the Chicago Rush play the Grand Rapids Rampage. On April 20, Grand Rapids fans will take the Pere Marquette to Chicago to see the Grand Rapids Rampage play the Chicago Rush.

Langdon reminded the group that there are brochure racks in Chicago Union Station where Michigan brochures can be displayed.

The ski train will be affected this winter because Amtrak no longer shows an eastbound connection between the California Zephyr and the Pere Marquette. The club will have to charter busses from Chicago back to Grand Rapids. Langdon urged that MDOT fight to maintain this connection because it affects revenue. This should be an agenda item for the meeting with Daryl Pesce.

Langdon also urged that the New Buffalo station on the Pere Marquette line not be closed when the new station is opened on the Wolverine line. We need to be working with the new New Buffalo casino to promote Amtrak.

In response to a question from Pekarek about the wrecked Pere Marquette equipment, Langdon responded that it had not been repaired yet. Litigation often holds up repair. The accident is still under investigation and neither the conductor nor assistant conductor have been charged. The signals may have been confusing.

6) OLD BUSINESS;

Committee Reports:

Ride the Train: No report

Route Enhancement: Gurney reported that a committee meeting would be held after the general membership meeting today to follow up on some of the ideas coming out of the November meeting with Gordon MacKay of Indian Trails and a subsequent meeting in Owosso in January.. In response to Delora, Whims stated that the MARP Vision should be on our web site.

Membership: Vavra-Musser introduced Philip Chamberlain to the group. He then passed out a sheet with membership statistics. Vavra-Musser stated that he feels we have an opportunity for growth by aligning with environmental groups and universities. Langdon reported that in the past, MARP has included Amtrak timetables and other materials to students at Western Michigan University during college orientation. Vavra-Musser promised to send updated membership data to regional chairs monthly. He plans to send a second notice to non renewing members in the near future. As to what counties should be in specific regions, Vavra-Musser stated that this should be decided by the regional chairs.

Valderas informed the group that he had membership badges made up for those attending meetings.

Communications: No report.

MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS
General Membership Meeting
Lansing Public Library, Lansing
January 12, 2008

MINUTES

Those Signing In: Hugh Gurney, Bob Tischbein, John Langdon, Kay Chase, Jim Wallington, Michael Frezell, Andrew Kent, Richard Vavra-Musser, Jim Hinkins, Dwignt Phillips, Kazuya Fujita, Roger Webster, Ren Farley, Clark Charnetski, Steve T. Sobel, Dave Randall, Diane Patterson, Robert Patterson, Mike Whims, Don Monteith

Also Present: Therese Cody, Michigan Department of Transportation

1) Call to Order: Vice Chair Don Monteith called the meeting to order at 10:08 a.m. Those present were asked to introduce themselves and give their hometown.

2) Minutes were approved after correcting the spelling of Gordon MacKay’s name throughout the report. Approval moved by Phillips, seconded by Randall.

3) Executive Director’s Report: Whims spoke of various Visions and how they fit together. The MARP Vision was published in the our most recent newsletter. While always a working document, we consider it “official”. In December, the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, a group authorized to look into the issue by Congress several years ago, issued its Vision for the Future through 2050. This document squares very well with MARP’s Vision. By 2030, it calls for 79-110 mph service, Chicago-Detroit, on a separate track, 79-110 mph service, Grand Rapids-Kalamazoo on a separate track, and 79 mph service, Detroit-Toledo on a shared track. For 2031-2050, the Commission envisions upgrade of existing Detroit-Pontiac service to 79 mph on a shared track, new 79 mph Detroit-Port Huron service on a shared right of way and upgrade of Detroit-Toledo service to 79-110 mph on a separate track. Langdon pointed out that not elements of the MARP Vision have been incorporated into the NARP Vision as of January 12, 2008. He urged this to take place as soon as possible.

Whims reported on the proposed rerouting of CN traffic around Chicago via the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern and said that, absent opposition from the membership assembled, he would send a letter to the Surface Transportation Board urging construction of a flyover at Grand Crossing prior to abandonment of the CN Airline Route into Union Station. This would be in support of the Midwest High Speed Rail position and is part of the Illinois state rail passenger program. Without such an improvement, both Michigan and downstate Illinois passenger service would be severely impaired. According to Wallington, the full recommendation is on the Midwest High Speed Rail Website, www.mwhsra> In response to a question from Charnetski, Whims said the Grand Crossing flyover would have no relationship to the South of the Lake proposal.

MDOT and Amtrak are estimating that the annual subsidy for a second Pere Marquette frequency would be around $2.0 million plus one time capital expenses of $800,000 per coach for a new train set. It would cost $160,000 annually to add a car to an existing train. Therese Cody stated that MDOT had been burned once on rehabbing coaches and would not upfront cash to Amtrak to rehabilitate cars. MDOT would insist on more control including that Michigan have first use of rehabbed cars and that they be stored in Michigan. MDOT would reimburse Amtrak once the rehabilitated cars were delivered. On a positive note, Cody said that Amtrak has been providing more equipment, particularly during the holidays. Langdon and Cody agreed that when Amtrak adds a car because of increased demand, all seats on the additional car should be sold at the top bucket.

The next step is to ask the legislature for the additional money. Langdon urged that we look to Illinois and develop a grassroots effort for a second Pere Marquette as the best means of winning legislative support.

4) Treasurer’s Report: Randall noted the death of longtime member Walter Weibel of Livonia, who passed away last July. As of January 31, 2007, the checking account had a balance of $3,315.14, which includes a donation of $1,000 from Larry Schwartz. The Pratt Fund had a balance of $15, 444.39. Concluding a discussion about our role in collecting dues for NARP, Vavra-Musser stated that MARP wants to get out of this middleman role. In response to a question from Vavra-Musser, Randall stated that approximately 70% of new memberships come from the newsletter and 30% from the brochure. Langdon moved acceptance of the Treasurer’s Report, seconded by Sobel.

5) Regional Activity Reports:

Eastern – Wallington reported that the Executive Director of Durand Union Station has left, with no replacement named.

Metro – Whims reported nothing new to report on the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter project and a reluctance on the part of Livingston County to support WALLY.

Charnetski mentioned that the Washtenaw County Transit Plan has a questionnaire on its website at www.miwats.org and urged members to check it out.

The QuickTrak machine at Royal Oak seems to be out of service most of the time. Cody mentioned that SMART is planning a new kiosk at Royal Oak that should alleviate this problem. She added that the cities of Birmingham and Troy seem to be working cooperatively on a proposed Transit Center around Fifteen Mile Road. They are getting more accurate cost estimates including a tunnel to the Birmingham side. This facility must be completed by December, 2010, or developer Grand Sakara will take back the land.

Cody further reported that VIA is working on a High Speed Rail Study that includes bringing that service into Detroit. Plans are underway to add a connecting track at West Detroit sometime in 2009 which would improve train movement and cut around five minutes from the schedule. SEMGOG plans to have the capacity study for the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter line from Norfolk Southern by the end of March.

Cody concluded with an assessment of the situation in Pontiac where the various uses for the transit center never materialized and the building reverted to MDOT. The cost of repair was too high, so MDOT is constructing a new building which it will own. Unfortunately, it has been designed primarily for busses and coordination with the rail use has not been as good as it could have been. She is hopeful that the bus tunnel will remain intact during construction for convenience of rail passengers.

Charnetski reported that plans continue for a new station in Dearborn. The people there want to tie into the Ann Arbor-Detroit commuter project.

Northern – Kent confirmed the MARP monthly meeting at the Standish Depot at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 16. Newsletters were successfully distributed on various train tours during 2007 and will again be distributed on tours scheduled this coming summer and fall. Rail shuttles to new casinos in the area are a possibility, but the tracks will have to be upgraded. Clare has asked Standish for advice on their project. No decision has yet been made on relocating the Clare Depot. The old roundhouse has been torn down. Monteith reported that Gordon MacKay has agreed to look into extending the Indian Trails route into Boyne Falls. An alternative would be to have the county operate a bus to Boyne Falls.

Western – Langdon reported that Westrain has signed a contract with MDOT for marketing. Part of the funding will update the website. Indian Trails timetables are now available in Holland and Grand Rapids. FRA, MDOT and Amtrak have finally agreed that the height of the new platform at New Buffalo should be 15” above the rail. A new contract will need to be drafted, calling for the city to maintain the platform. With increased use of the Pere Marquette stop at New Buffalo, Langdon urged that it not be discontinued. Platform lights at New Buffalo, St. Joseph and Bangor need repair. Superliner equipment is still operating on the Pere Marquette route.

Grand Rapids Transit is planning enhanced bus service on U. S. 131 South. Some are urging commuter service on North U.S. 13l. The MARP meeting in Holland is confirmed for May 10, 2008. An extra effort will be needed to accommodate Spring Break traffic on the Pere Marquette.

Cody added that the Superliner equipment will stay on the Pere Marquette until warmer weather, when Amtrak needs it elsewhere. She feels that Amtrak and MDOT will be able to proceed quickly on the lease of the New Buffalo platform to Amtrak.

Langdon concluded by saying that he had been working with Travel Michigan on the “Amtrak Classic” basketball games in Grand Rapids and Chicago in March . Hosts will be needed on trains shuttling between the two cities. Unfortunately, those attending the game in Grand Rapids will have to spend two nights. Those attending the Chicago game will need to spend one night.

6) Committee Reports

Ride the Train – Robert Patterson handed out the Ride The Train Operating Parameters, the committee’s Education and Research Corridor’s Initiative and its proposed list of activities for 2008 including requesting Amtrak to participate in Durand Railroad Days in May, requesting Amtrak to support a MARP booth at the Chrysler Arts, Beats and Eats Festival in Pontiac in August/September, a request for Amtrak support of a float in the Detroit Thanksgiving Parade, and the encouragement of MDOT to include a line drawing of Amtrak routes in future editions of the MDOT Transportation Map. Patterson suggested review of these documents with discussion at a future meeting.

Route Enhancement – Wallington reported a very positive three hour meeting on January 8 with Gordon MacKay and others from Indian Trails. MacKay stressed that the Battle Creek-Chicago run was the backbone of his operation. If that were impaired, Indian Trails would be unable to do anything in support of public transportation. He still feels that the Blue Water is a threat to his operation. However, he understands there are lots of areas where we can work together. We have a common goal of getting people out of their cars on onto intercity busses and trains. Wallington is asking each of the five MARP members who participated in this meeting to contribute to a summary he will write of the meeting. Charnetski was particularly pleased that MacKay has adjusted the Calumet-Milwaukee schedules to mesh with Amtrak’s Hiawatha Service and is working with Amtrak to have that designated as an Amtrak Thruway Connection. Langdon added that improved connections with Amtrak trains in Toledo was also discussed. Chase indicated that she would like to see cooperation on promotion of Indian Trails service in Northern Michigan, including IT timetables at MARP exhibit tables. Cody responded that IT did receive some money from MDOT for marketing and that some of the funding going to Durand Union Station could be used for Indian Trails promotion. Whims suggested that Indian Trails schedules be added to the mitrain website.

Wallington added that Indian Trails will need more funding from the state to expand service in Northern Michigan.

Beautification – Langdon reported that the Holland depot had been decorated for Christmas.

Membership – Vavra-Musser reported that a letter to be sent to new members has been developed. He is currently revising the brochure and developing a membership card. He plans to share information about new members with their respective regional chairs on a monthly basis.

Communications – Chase informed the group that she will be attending the Carmichael Conference on the Future of American Transportation in St. Louis on January 28-29. The purpose of the conference is to discuss the report of the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission, mentioned earlier by Mike Whims, and plan the way forward. The Commission recommends spending about $8 billion annually to upgrade the rail transportation network and suggests a number of ways to fund these expenditures. Options include a significant increase in the taxes funding the Highway Trust Fund, a general fund increase, tax credits, and greenhouse gas emission funding. Chase urged all to review the report and give her feedback prior to the meeting.

Charnetski noted that Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky are major beneficiaries of the plan and speculated as to whether those states have the political will to fund their share.

Outreach – Frezell handed out a revise outreach schedule. He stressed that, if nobody volunteers for a suggested show, MARP will not be represented. He asked that those proposing attendance at an event get all the details an make the arrangements.

7) Old Business

At Large Committee Assignments – Monteith reported that we still had two Coordinator positions open. Until volunteers come forward, he will assume the responsibilities of those positions.

Newsletter – Valderas announced that the Winter newspaper will be 8 pages. Deadline for articles is Tuesday, January 15. Valderas would like a critique from the members present. Valderas would like a critique from the members present on the value of the various news articles in the newspaper. As he sees it, the newspaper is written primarily for MARP members. Valderas urged regional chairs to keep track of distribution.

Future Meetings – Whims announced upcoming meetings at Durand Union Station on February 23; Toledo, Ohio (in conjunction with NARP on March 15; Standish on April 19; and Holland on May 10. The June meeting is planned for Owosso, but not yet confirmed.

8) Other Business – Robert Patterson passed out some ideas on funding and suggested they be discussed in March.

9) The meeting was adjourned at 12:20 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Hugh D. Gurney, Secretary

Approved:

___________________

John Delora, Chair

MINUTES

MICHIGAN ASSOCIATION OF RAILROAD PASSENGERS

General Membership Meeting

Howell Carnegie District Library, Howell

November 17, 2007

 

Those Signing In:  Hugh Gurney, Kay Chase, Bob Tischbein, Dick Pekarek, Don Montieth, John Delora, Reynolds Farley, Clark Charnetski, Kaz Fujita, John Langdon, Dwight Phillips, Jim Hinkins, Jim Wallington, Andrew Kent, Richard Vavra-Musser, Mike Whims

Also Present:  Gordon MacKay, Indian Trails, Mary Ann Peters, Denise Tyler

1) Call to Order:  Chairman Delora called the meeting to order at 10:10 a.m.  He thanked Hugh Gurney for making arrangements for the meeting.

2) Indian Trails:  John Delora welcomed Gordon MacKay, President of Indian Trails, Michigan’s oldest motor coach company and an early collaborator with Amtrak.  MacKay passed out a map of the communities currently served by Indian Trails, which began serving Shiawassee County in 1910.  MacKay stated that he was a proponent of mass transportation, including Amtrak.  His issue with Amtrak has been that he thought the way subsidies were handled with Amtrak and the motor coach industry were disproportionate.  However, he does feel that we need to work together for the future of mass transportation.

When asked by Delora about connections between Indian Trails and Amtrak, MacKay explained that he first must work with Greyhound, which controls many of the terminals.  Approximately 50% of Indian Trails passengers connect with Greyhound, so it is critical that he work with Greyhound.  For example, MacKay would prefer a common hub in Chicago between the various bus companies and Amtrak, but Greyhound holds the key.  Flint is another problem area, as Greyhound refuses to hold one of their busses for a connecting Indian Trails coach that is running late.  However, Amtrak connections are important, as approximately 1,200 passengers monthly connect between Indian Trails and Amtrak.

MacKay expressed his desire for a nationwide transportation vision for mass transit, an intermodal vision that includes both train and motor coach.

At Clark Charnetski’s suggestion, MacKay agreed to look at trying to make a connection in Milwaukee between Indian Trail’s Upper Peninsula service and Amtrak’s Hiawatha service.

In response to another question, MacKay expressed concern that Megabus could take traffic away from Greyhound on the Detroit-Chicago route, forcing Greyhound to cut back or drop service.  MacKay pointed out that between Battle Creek and Chicago, there are nine bus and train frequencies, more than the market requires.  At a minimum, these frequencies need to operate at more desirable intervals.  MacKay suggested only bus service between Battle Creek, Lansing and Flint.

More discussion about connections ensued, particularly at Milwaukee, Kalamazoo, Detroit, and with Indian Trails new U.S. 127 service.   As to the Amtrak Thruway connection to Toledo, MacKay stated that Indian Trails had bid on the route, but lost out to MetroCoach.  Pekarek noted that 25%-30% of passengers boarding at Flint come from further north in the state.  When the issue of the California transportation system came up, where so many busses connect with trains, MacKay responded that MDOT would have to be involved.  Langdon stated that it would help if the motor coach people at MDOT and the passenger rail people were better connected.  He urged attendance at the upcoming Legislative Commission on Tourism meeting at Crystal Mountain on November 30.  Transportation coordination is a major concern of this committee.

MacKay concluded by saying he would welcome a working meeting with members of MARP to discuss specific proposals.

3) Milford Transit Issues: Mary Ann Peters and Denise Tyler from Milford discussed the total lack of any public transportation at all from Milford to other points in the Detroit Metropolitan area.  At the suggestion of the Michigan Municipal League, they brought this issue to MARP.  Whims and Gurney responded that MARP is working to implement commuter rail service in the Detroit metro area.  Milford is on a CSX line that could be utilized, although bus service might be the first step.

4) Minutes of the October 13 and July 14 meetings and the September 8 Annual Meeting were reviewed and approved.

5) Treasurer’s Report:  Dave Randall reported that, as of October 31, 2007, there was $3,977.74 in the checking account and the Pratt Fund was valued at $16,192.30.  The Treasurer’s Report was approved.  In response to questions about reformatting The Michigan Passenger to save on postage, Randall responded that smaller format would cost less in postage but far more in printing costs.

6) Chairman’s Report:  Chairman Delora reported that Michigan Central and Amtrak had reached agreement on the transfer of the NorfolkSouthern Ypsilanti-Kalamazoo to Michigan Central.  Amtrak does not insist on its dispatching trains on this route.  Michigan Central will dispatch from Kalamazoo. The letter of credit which Amtrak can draw on for repairs on the line is smaller than first discussed, only around $3 million a year for four years.  However, there seems to be some concern among FRA personnel and STB has postponed its final ruling until December.

7) Chapter Reports:

     Metro Detroit:  Whims reported that passengers can now purchase Amtrak tickets at a Quicktrak machine in Royal Oak.  However, the machine is not at the station and not currently listed on Amtrak’s Royal Oak page.  More coordination is needed.  With Royal Oak under discussion,  Charnetski brought up the lack of wheelchair lifts at either Royal Oak or Birmingham and urged that they be installed.  Langdon confirmed that wheelchair lifts are currently in place at Grand Rapids, Holland and Bangor, all unmanned stations. 

     Western:  Someone at Amtrak is listening, according to Langdon, because the Pere Marquette was running with up to five coaches during the Thanksgiving holiday period.   There is still some confusion over the state appropriation and what it can be used for.  For example, where does the Blue Water promotion grant come from.   As a partial response to Langdon, Delora responded that railway coaches can be repaired/rehabbed for around $100,000 each and would pay for themselves in four months.

     East-Central: Wallington discussed the miserable on time performance of the Blue Water, due partly to dispatching practices.   Pekarek urged that Blue Water problems be highlighted at each quarterly meeting with MDOT and Amtrak.  A lot of the problem is the attitude of the old Grand Trunk people, not CN headquarters in Montreal.  Charnetski confirmed Wallington’s view that some of the problems originate with the dispatcher in Battle Creek.

     Northern: Kent bemoaned Amtrak on time performance problems during a recent trip to the West.  He then confirmed that the October opening of the Standish depot as a Sunrise Side Welcome Center was a howling success.  Thousands came out to see the passenger train pulled by Engine #1225 and stacks of Michigan Passenger newsletters were distributed.  Several small city tours with the Algonquoin dome car are now planned such as Bay City-Grayling and Standish-Grayling.  Monteith added that there may be three Northern Arrow trips to Northwest Lower Michigan in 2008.  He is suggesting an outing to Beaver Island and a visit to a castle in Charlevoix as part of these excursions.  Monteith also informed the group of a meeting in Traverse City with a turnout of 600 people to discuss a Vision for 2025 that included light rail and commuter rail.  This study was done by the same people who did the study in New Mexico that got commuter rail going there.  Monteith reported that he had contacted all the Thruway bus stations/stops to obtain correct phone numbers and learn where the bus actually stops.

8) Executive Director’s Report: Whims reported on upcoming meeting dates:

            January 12, 2008          Lansing

            February 23, 2008       Durand

            March ?                       Toledo (with NARP)

            April 19, 2008              Standish

            May 10, 2008              Holland

            June ?                           Owosso

            July 12, 2008               Lapeer

            August 16, 2008           St. Joseph

The issue of Directors and Officers Liability Insurance then came to the floor, as Delora discussed how NARP was reducing the size of its Board to 14-15 to reduce the cost of

D & O insurance.  Whims agreed to contact the Michigan League of Non-Profits for advice on whether MARP would need such insurance, even though it has no paid employees.  Randall also agreed to look into the issue.  Delora would like quotes for coverage both with and without employees.

The Michigan legislature has asked MDOT for a study of the feasibility of more equipment and a second frequency on the Pere Marquette line.  MDOT is asking Amtrak for cost estimates.

The state appropriation for 2007-2008 contains a number of interesting directives.  There is no cap based on revenue collected this year as there was in 2006-2007.  MDOT is directed to work with intercity motor coach carriers.  The Birmingham-Troy Intermodal Center is endorsed.  MDOT is asked to report on the costs up upgrading the state owned line from Ann Arbor to Northwest Lower Michigan to support speeds of 59 mph.

9) Committee Reports:

     Newsletter:  Whims reported that galley proofs of the nest issue are complete and the paper will be out soon.

     Outreach: A discussion about the value of certain exhibit venues took place as Langdon passed out an updated schedule.  The general sentiment of the group was that, when those staffing the table are proactive, the shows build both awareness of MARP and new memberships, usually 2-3 per show.  Vavra-Musser recommended that we develop a way to identify the show that a new membership came from.  Delora expressed his view that the best source of new memberships is on the train solicitation.  Kent concurred.

Delora reported that his Power Point presentation at the Michigan Railroad History Conference was very well received.  He will be giving the same presentation to the Legislative Transit Caucus in the near future.  He plans to line up more opportunities to present it by contacting libraries in the area.  There was discussion of recording the entire presentation and putting it on a DVD so it can be shown widely by many MARP members.

     Route Enhancement:  There was an extended discussion of issues related to the Vision Statement, including the proposed schedule for a second Pere Marquette.  An early morning departure from Chicago would bring more people from Chicago, but a later morning departure would connect with more Amtrak trains and boost ridership numbers.  Whims recommended that we ask MDOT to study the most feasible schedule.  Delora indicated a study of all Michigan schedules might be in order..

Wallington urged that the second Pere Marquette connect with Indian Trails busses going north.  He also felt it is time that MDOT revisit its policy of not subsidizing motor coach operations south of Saginaw-Flint.  MacKay indicated he would like to see more intermodal ticket sales.  Pekarek recommended that any new bus or train frequencies from Saginaw connect with the Blue Water. Langdon reminded all that the proposed Michigan Vision Statement mirrors the NARP’s National Vision Statement.

Whims moved to approve the Vision Statement.  Vavra-Musser seconded and the motion was approved.

10) New Business:

      Phone Banking:  Unfortunately, Andrew Bremer from All Aboard Ohio could not be present to discuss this issue in detail.  As Delora explained, both NARP and All Aboard Ohio have used this tactic with success when critical issues come up.  Recorded phone messages go to members, not only informing them of a critical issue, but automatically connecting with that member’s legislators.  The system doesn’t create massive calls to legislators, but enough to bring an issue to a legislator’s attention.  Langdon moved that we explore the feasibility of phone banking.  Randall responded that a similar resolution had been approved at an earlier meeting, but never implemented.  Vavra-Musser recommended that we look at a complete package, including what should go in our membership renewal letter that would further our ability to implement a phone alert system efficiently.   It was agreed that no motion was necessary at this time and that Delora would try to have Bremer make a presentation in the near future.

     Executive Committee Organization:  Montieth informed the group that Rich Vavra-Musser has agreed to serve as the proposed Membership Coordinator and Kay Chase has indicated her willingness to serve as Communications Coordinator.  The Government Affairs Coordinator and the Meeting/Speaker Coordinator have yet to be selected.  Montieth would have the newly selected Coordinators write their own position descriptions.  Whims expressed concern about a conflict between the Government Affairs Coordinator and the Communications Coordinator.  Langdon responded that he sees the Government Affairs Coordinator doing one on one meetings while the Communications Coordinator works at getting our general message out the the general public.  Delora said he saw the Government Affairs Coordinator as working closely with the Chair and Executive Director on issues.  Randall recommended that the Government Relations Coordinator be redesignated as Public Affairs Coordinator in light of our non-profit status.  Montieth agreed to send a revised proposal out for review at the next meeting.

      Station Surveys:  Delora would like to update station surveys done in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s.  These surveys included data on every Amtrak station including parking,  rest rooms, platform height.   At McKay’s suggestion, it was agreed include Indian Trails bus stations and intercity public transportation facilities.  Langdon suggested that lighting standards also be included.  At Delora’s request, Gurney agreed to develop a questionnaire form to be completed by volunteers under the direction of one of the Coordinators.  Delora will provide Gurney with copies of sample past surveys as a guide to developing the new form.  When he has come up with a draft, Gurney will share with other members of the Executive Committee for input.

11) Other Business: 

      MacKay reported that Indian Trails would need more formal stations to effectively implement a package express service.  The Michigan Flyer just celebrated its first anniversary and carries 185-200 passengers a day.  The newly implemented Ann Arbor service, is still weak.  Detroit Metro Airport has not been cooperative as they think Indian Trails is competing with their approved limousine service on the Ann Arbor segment.  The American Bus Association had to intervene to gain access.  Detroit Metro has removed signs indicating Indian Trails pickup points.  This is something legislators need to look at.  MacKay also confirmed that Indian Trails is operating the bus service on the Western Michigan campus.

Fujita reported that some remodeling is planned at the East Lansing station connected with improved security.  Langdon indicated that staffing of the Grand Rapids station is under study in light of the possibility of a second daily train.  Grand Rapids has the second largest load for a single train in the state.

Monteith informed the group that Michigan Technological University in Houghton has a course of study in railroad engineering.

Wallington expressed concern that public transit took a hit in the latest state budget.  Most transit systems won millage renewals in the November election, but renewal of the millage for CATA was defeated.

12) Adjournment:  At 1:14 p.m., Chase moved adjournment.   Seconded by Whims

Respectfully submitted,

Hugh D. Gurney, Secretary

Approved:

John Delora, Chair

Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers

Minutes of Annual membership meeting

Saturday, Sept. 8, 2007, Union Station, Durand

Attendees who signed in: Executive Committee – Michael Whims, Michael Frezell, Jim Wallington, Clark Charnetski, John DeLora, Dave Randall, Dick Pekarek, Kay Chase, J.R Valderas and Kaz Fujita.

Members – Don Monteith, Barry Adams, Alan Gebauer, JP DesCamps, Rich Vavra-Musser, Tim Hoeffner, Barry Boyce, Des Collins, Richard Fry, Rochelle Colven,, Frank Harvath, Steve Sobel, Mark Buckley, Dwight Phillips, Phil Chamberlain, Jim Hinkins, Rod Reaner, Norma Ward, Bonnie Switzer, Keith Martin, Larry Sobczak.

Also – Katie Davies, Candace Collins, Deborah Canute, James Clyueh, Hoon-Yung Hopgood and Bob Tischbein.

Call to order. Chairman Whims welcomed attendees to the 34^th annual meeting of MARP and Norma Ward, MARP member and a member of host Union Station, welcomed the group and praised the cooperation between the two groups.

Featured speaker – Whims welcomed and introduced State Rep, Hoon-Yung Hopgood, D-Taylor/Romulus, representing the 22^nd District. He is chair of the House Transportation Committee. In brief, Hopgood:

— Described the status of state transportation funding, the discussion of increasing taxes and the overall politics of writing a state budget.

— Said he was committed to the state’s transportation infrastructure, but that it was under the pressure of declining revenues and increased costs. Less revenue was the result of consumers using less gasoline as cost of fuel increases. Because gasoline taxes are the major source of transportation budget, another dedicated source of funding is needed.

Brief remarks — Deborah Canute, director of Durand Union Station, Inc., explained her group’s role, goals, financial situation and overall status. She thanked MARP for using the facilities, saying it was appropriate that a railroad passenger group to do so.

At this time, long-time MARP member Alan Gebauer presented the historical station six boxes of MARP archives for the historical collection. Gebauer explained the archives had been stored at his home but were turned over to Durand Union Station so it would be accessible to the public.

Chairman‘s report — Whims reported that membership was now over 300 and MARP sponsored over 15 outreach events. He said MARP had testified before the state legislature and has developed working relationships with other advocacy groups. MARP is also working with regional agencies and the legislative task force on tourism to promote passenger rail. Other positives for the year included the work of the Route Enhancement Committee and the creation of Ride the Train Michigan, a marketing effort by MARP members. He boasted of the expanded circulation and coverage of the newspaper, The Michigan Passenger, and more effective use of the web site, www.marp.org

Lunch — Catered by GiGis Banquets & Catering of Corunna and volunteers at Durand Union Station, with part of the payment benefiting the station’s treasury. Attendees were invited to inspect the rail-related archives stored by DUS.

“Amtrak & Advocacy” – An in-depth look at the struggles and successes of Amtrak and its relationship with advocacy groups such as MARP was presented by Executive Director DeLora. It was the premiere showing of a program produced for general public presentations.

Business Items.

— Election of officers. Since only one person per office was nominated, the following officers were elected per acclimation:

John Delora, Executive Committee Char

Don Monteith, Vice Chair

Hugh Gurney, Secretary

Andrew Kent, Northern Michigan Regional Chair

John Langdon, West Michigan Regional Chair

Jim Wallington, East/Central Michigan Regional Chair

Mike Whims, Metro Detroit Regional Chair

Executive Committee At Large: Clark Charnetski, Kay Chase, Steve Sobel, Rich Vavra-Musser

DeLora announced that he appointed Whims to succeed him as Executive Director and that David Randall would continue his term as Treasurer. Larry Sobczak would continue as webmaster and J.R. Valderas as editor of the newspaper.

MARP Vision — Whims explained the Passenger Rail Vision for 2030, which was adopted by voice vote of the attendees. Envisioned by 2030 is a passenger rail system that

–Connects Canada and the Midwest to Michigan cities and destinations;

–Integrates with other modes of transportation;

–Delivers economic growth to Michigan

–Augments Wolverine service with increased frequency and speed to meet growing demands, and establishment of a Pontiac-Metro Airport-Ann Arbor commuter rail service;

–Increases Pere Marquette and Blue Water service frequency to meet growing needs, promote Michigan tourism and attracts business travelers.

Attendees endorsed an immediate goal of a second Pere Marquette train while an ambitious expansion of service for the entire state was tabled for continued discussion by the Route Enhancement Committee.

It was announced the Oct. 13 general membership meeting in Kalamazoo would begin at 11:00 a.m. to allow members to arrive by Amtrak and give some buffer time in case the trains are tardy.

Minutes prepared by James Wallington, Secretary

Approved,

_____________________________

Michael Whims, Chairman