The Edmonton Transit System Advisory Board (ETSAB) was established in September 1994 to provide advice and recommendations to city council, the transportation committee, and to city administration with regards to public transit. ETSAB prepares an annual work plan and report based on city council's direction and other matters of interest to council. ETSAB may also include in the work plan issues/tasks/studies that the board as citizens have identified for consideration by council to improve the transit experience of Edmontonians, the low cost fare transit pass is a good example.
ETSAB consists of 12 members, appointed by city council. The President of the Amalgamated Transit Union or a delegate may serve the board as a liaison member. Members of ETSAB represent a variety of interests, are a positive source of informed participation, and are prepared to address issues on a city-wide basis. The criterion for selection of members is to gain representation that reflects the diversity of our citizens, businesses, labour, communities and organizations.
ETSAB meets on a monthly basis, generally on the last Monday. For issues that require in-depth consideration, ad-hoc sub-committees are formed as needed. Board members are expected to serve on at least one sub-committee and, although any citizen can serve on a sub-committee, meetings can only be chaired by an ETSAB member.
In order to fulfill its mandate, ETSAB may:
- Conduct research;
- Identify stakeholder groups and seek input from them;
- Share information and collaborate with the City Manager;
- Receive and consider information and records provided by the City Manager that relates to the Board's mandate and work plan; and
- Inform city council of initiatives of other levels of government, surrounding municipalities and other local authorities and organizations that could impact public transit.
ETSAB was originally established under Bylaw #12454 in 1994. The Bylaw was replaced by 16929 on April 22, 2015.
Highlights
ETSAB's role and effectiveness as an advisory board can be seen in these initiatives:
- Council support for implemented ETS airport service.
- Proposal to introduce a low-income transit pass.
- Recommendations to city council on the budget.
- Input on the development of a Transit Strategy.
ETSAB continues to monitor progress on significant developments such as the expansion of the LRT and work of the Greater Capital Region.