After reading your recent editorial (Sept. 2), I feel compelled to comment. Most SCAT riders are covered by Medicare, not Medicaid, so medical travel is not paid.

Secondly, SSI is a source of income for most disabled citizens. Therefore, a $72 pass is out of reach when SSI pays $66.

Third, why didn't the task force and the City Council involve the disabled community in the discussions before changing the system? The city discusses issues for months, yet SCAT changes were only publicized after the fact. Where is the public input for the proposed changes?

The problem with the unlimited pass was abuse by a few riders, their families and caregivers, which GTA is unable or unwilling to address. This problem will not affect the finances that the task force is worried about, but addressing it would eliminate the "excessive rides."

The task force was appointed, met, made decisions and reported to the City Council, which immediately acted. All without any dialogue with the disabled community. Transportation is vital to the disabled and yet we were ignored.

James Wells
Greensboro

Editor's note: The task force included a SCAT rider. Its recommendations were issued in May, a month before they were approved by the City Council.