An Order to authorize a Memorandum of Understanding between the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority and the City of Amesbury Council on Aging pursuant to M.G.L. c. 40, § 4A for the use of an accessible vehicle for transportation services for seniors, subject to approval by the Mayor.

The City of Amesbury approves a Memorandum of Understanding with the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MeVa) to use an accessible MassDOT CTGP vehicle (a 2025 New England Wheels Low Floor Cutaway, 14 passengers) to support transportation services for seniors provided by the Amesbury Council on Aging. The City does not obtain ownership of the vehicle and the arrangement can be terminated with 30 days’ prior written notice if funding or service needs change. The MOU requires the City to register and operate the vehicle in accordance with MassDOT/state grant requirements (5310/CTGP), maintain appropriate driver qualifications and insurance, and use the vehicle primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Use restrictions include limits on home meal delivery as the primary purpose and prohibitions on emergency medical transport or school bus/charter use. MassDOT and MeVa retain title or lien rights, with disposition procedures if the grant ends or the vehicle is no longer needed. The City bears maintenance costs and assumes liability for fines and parking violations. Inspection and recordkeeping requirements are included to ensure proper maintenance and compliance.