Monday was a reduced service day for Ben Franklin Transit. This recently implemented program targets six days per year for providing fewer hours of service as a cost saving measure.

BFT's Dial A Ride service takes me and my wheelchair to and from work and medical appointments. Monday's delayed start time was a minor inconvenience to me, but not for many who rely on Dial A Ride for transportation to medical treatments such as dialysis and chemotherapy, often lengthy treatments that must start at an early hour.

In 2002, the citizens of Benton and Franklin counties demonstrated their support of this vital service by approving an increase of their taxes. Since that time, however, Dial A Ride clients have endured a number of service reductions. The latest pick-up time was changed from 6:30 to 6:00 p.m. Sunday service was eliminated. Now service hours on selected days are reduced.

For almost every month during the past year, tax revenues have significantly exceeded budget expectations, growing the BFT budget reserve. I call on the Ben Franklin Transit management and board members to halt this trend of reduced service before it reaches its logical conclusion, greatest cost savings by providing no service.

Lance Riniker, Richland