We must raise several ongoing concerns about the data and budgeting practices underlying these calculations. For this methodology to work—and to earn public trust—accuracy, consistency, and transparency are critical.

Key Concerns That Undermine the Current Fare Targets

1. Budget Inconsistencies Across Reports
   • The 2025 Ferry Fare Target Report (FFTR) presents figures that don’t match the 2024 Approved Budget (Dec 2023) or the 2025–2024 Modified Budget (Dec 2024).
   • Categories like Professional Services, Rentals, and Miscellaneous differ significantly across documents, undermining confidence in projections.
2. Misclassification of Capital as Operations & Maintenance (O&M)
   • Projects such as the $84,000 electronic ticketing system and $173,000 engine replacement design were logged as O&M.
   • These are capital improvements, not routine operating costs. Their misclassification inflates O&M and directly impacts fare calculations.
3. Lost Federal Funding
   • The failure to file the federal ferry census cost the County $600,000 in Ferry Boat Program funding this year. Aug. 20, 2025 Seattle Times Article
   • That shortfall now shifts pressure onto fare increases, when outside funding should have helped stabilize costs. Funded Ferries in 2025
4. Projections Out of Step with Reality
   • In 2024, a $2 million subsidy was projected; the actual number was $928,156.
   • The 2026 subsidy is now projected at $3.7 million, yet O&M projections don’t even align within the FFTR itself.
5. Human Impact of Fare Hikes
   • A 25-trip senior walk-on pass will rise to $118.50 compared to $77.50 for the same Washington State Ferry pass on Mukilteo–Clinton.
   • Sharp increases for seniors, disabled citizens, and working commuters put access to this lifeline service at risk. Page 14, Ferry Fare Target Report

A Constructive Path Forward

The County’s intent—to modernize fare planning and reduce dependence on outdated projections—is positive. But intent must be paired with credible data. To build trust and ensure fairness, I urge you to:

• Pause the 30% fare hike until budget discrepancies are reconciled.
• Reclassify capital projects properly and clearly separate them from O&M in reporting.
• Publish a reconciliation showing how the FFTR aligns with approved and modified budgets.
• Explain the $600,000 census error and detail corrective measures for future funding opportunities.
• Provide a category-by-category fare impact analysis so riders can see exactly who pays what.

Riders understand that fares are part of funding the ferry system. But riders also deserve accurate budgets, honest classifications, and leadership that protects both fiscal health and community access.