ITUNA — Residents in Ituna could see a disruption to community transit service early in the new year as town council weighs options to address significant mechanical issues with the current bus.
The Town of Ituna says recent inspections found the community transit bus requires extensive and unexpected repairs due to rust.
Council says the severity of the damage has led to a recommendation that the bus be replaced sooner than anticipated when the service was first planned.
Council is now reviewing potential paths forward, including the purchase of either a used or new bus. While some funding is available, town officials say replacing the bus with a new vehicle would require securing grant funding before an order could be placed, a process that council says may take time.
Because of those timelines, council says a disruption in transit service may be required after Jan. 31, 2026.
Town officials acknowledge the timing is far from ideal and say efforts are underway to limit the impact on residents who rely on the service.
Temporary solutions being explored include the short-term rental of a bus or assistance from neighbouring communities that may have a vehicle available.
The town is encouraging any communities that may be able to help to contact municipal officials.
Alongside the immediate challenge, council says it is also taking a broader look at the long-term future of the transit service.
That review includes assessing whether the current model continues to meet community needs and what level of service is sustainable moving forward.
Mayor Rene Dubreuil says no final decisions have been made.
“Council has a responsibility to carefully evaluate both the condition of the bus and the long-term sustainability of providing this service,” Dubreuil said in a statement. “We are looking at all available options, including temporary measures, while also asking important questions about community needs. Our goal is to make a thoughtful, responsible decision in the best interest of the community.”
Council says transit services play an important role for many residents and recognizes that any interruption could have an impact.
Officials say they are committed to keeping the community informed as decisions are made and more information becomes available.
Further updates will be shared as council continues its review and explores funding options and interim solutions.
