BOCC Meetings Canceled, MCAT Fares Suspended for Upcoming Election Days

BRADENTON – At Tuesday's meeting, Manatee County Commissioners voted in favor of canceling two upcoming meetings so as not to conflict with the primary and general elections. The board also voted to suspend MCAT fares for the two days in an effort to best accommodate voter participation.

The board voted 5-2 (Bustle and Benac dissenting) to cancel the August 26 and November 4 meetings, amending the item to also direct county staff to avoid scheduling board meetings and workshops on Election Days in the future (adding the amendment was also a 5-2 vote with Bustle and Benac dissenting).

In a separate vote, commissioners unanimously agreed to suspend regular MCAT fares on those two days. All fixed-route bus service passengers will be allowed to board MCAT buses for free on August 26 and November 4.

Buses and trolleys will not deviate from their established fixed-routes or schedules, however, ADA paratransit-eligible riders may take advantage of the paratransit offer to schedule a ride to the polls. Paratransit riders are asked to call (941) 748-2317 in advance to schedule a ride to their polling place.