Council Members,
Please consider reinstating the Caltrain Go Pass program, which previously provided City employees with a sustainable commute incentive. It was understandably rolled back in last year's budget, when many employees started working from home (and as Caltrain reduced service substantially). However, reinstatement would offer several clear positives as the City reactivates services:
1. It supports the City's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
2. It helps reduce the number of cars on the road, and sets a positive example for other local employers
3. It is an attractive employee benefit program, at a time when many are forecasting challenges with hiring
4. It appears that Caltrain has some incentives for 2021 participation, including with regard to 2022 discounts
I don't know precisely how much re-enrollment would cost, but I did see that rolling back the benefit last year was estimated at $71,478. At a minimum, I hope you will ask relevant staff to consult with Caltrain and provide a more accurate cost estimate for you to consider at your next budget-related meeting.
Thank you for consideration of this comment, which I'm making as an individual.
-THR
