Dial-A-Ride bus shelter project planned

The city plans to spend over $34,000 to build Dial-A-Ride shelters in town, using Kern County Low Carbon Transit Operations Project funds to pay for them.

"The idea is that we have locations where we routinely pick up and drop off Dial-A-Ride riders," City Manager Scott Hurlbert commented on the Transit Bus Shelters project,

"We are looking for the funding to establish bus stop-style shelters, a place for people to wait under the shade."

"They are more expensive than you think. This is a good step in moving forward with the design and installation."

Also at Tuesday's regular meeting, Mayor Vincent Martinez presented a proclamation to long-time educator Kelly Richers.

Richers has served as superintendent of Wasco Union Elementary School District since 2014 and retired from his post on June 1, after serving the district for 30 years.

As superintendent, he oversaw the passage of bonds totaling $36 million for the construction of a new elementary school and the conversion of the Palm Avenue Elementary School into a middle school with a new gym.

Richers also initiated the addition of special education buses, renovations to other schools, expansion of services through supplementary funds directed at those students most in need, expanded nursing staff, liaisons at each school and college-directed programs.

"He also successfully and courageously led the district in its most unprecedented time during the Covid-19 pandemic by providing support for students and staff," Mayor Martinez said. "He remained committed to fostering a learning environment that focused on continuous improvement, preparing every student to become a lifelong learner and responsible citizen."

Richers was happy about the honor. "I'm deeply appreciative of it. It's unexpected, and I thank the city very much. It's been an honor to work in Wasco," he added

Councilmember Gilberto Reyna said, "I knew him since he first arrived in the district. I'm happy to call him a friend."

"He is a visionary and has made our school system better for our students."

Also, at the meeting, it was announced that the next SNIP (spay and neuter clinic) event would occur on Wednesday, Aug. 23, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the parking lot in the back of the old Wasco courthouse. To register a pet, call 925-788-1763.