OH HB500

Allows a board of county commissioners to award franchises to operate public transit systems on behalf of county transit boards, with franchises lasting at least 10 years and subject to performance targets and conditions set by the commissioners.

Requires franchisees to obtain certification from the board of county commissioners before operating the system, with the board retaining the right to terminate franchises for material breaches and franchisees able to appeal terminations to court.

Mandates both the county transit board and franchisee submit annual written reports to county commissioners detailing cost savings, efficiency, safety, public service, and return on investment; commissioners must conduct annual performance reviews and publish findings on county website.

Establishes that franchise awards must go through competitive, non-sealed bidding with public inspection of all bids; the lowest monetary bid does not automatically win, and commissioners may consider bidder experience, equipment access, track record, and other factors beyond cost.

Authorizes county transit boards to provide transportation services as part of county family services or workforce development activities, and allows commissioners to delegate contract authority for such transportation services to county transit boards.