SEAT seeks Funding from Muskingum County

South East Area Transit (SEAT) met with county commissioners Monday.

Transit Director Howard Stewart made an appearance to ask for financial support for 2016. SEAT transports approximately 415 people a day and Stewart said funding from local government agencies is key to the continuation of that transit.

“Yes we report how much we get, local funding,” said Stewart. “Our operational split. Our budget is split 50-50. So if it costs us 1 million dollars to operate, we have to come up with $500,000 dollars locally.”

After a summer that truly tested the team of drivers, Stewart said that they came together because they see the need for area transit in the local community.

“We may be a lifeline for someone getting to a medical appointment or just getting someone out of the house where they can go shop and get the necessities that they need to survive,” said Stewart. “That’s what life’s all about so I think we’re a bridge to that. ”

The commissioners will review information before approximating the amount of support they can offer seat for 2016.