June 18, 2025 3:40 a.m. 

The Umpqua Public Transit District has announced a 5 percent cost of living adjustment for all employees, effective July 16th.

A release said this increase reflects the agency’s commitment to fair and competitive compensation as the cost of living in Oregon continues to rise.

UPTD CEO Ben Edtl said, “This COLA increase is a recognition of the hard work and dedication out staff has shown through a challenging year”. Edtl said, “It ensures that are employees are supported without adding any additional burden to the taxpayers who found our services”.

All current employee benefits will remain unchanged, with the district continuing to cover 100 percent of employee health insurance and 85 percent of dependent coverage

Edtl said the increase is made possible through strategic operational improvements and prudent financial management by UP’s operations leadership team, George Corrillo and Andre Bleau. Edtl said their leadership has been instrumental in optimizing routes and fleet management to reduce costs while maintaining exceptional service to the community.

The release said along with the COLA increase, UP will begin rebuilding its financial reserves to ensure long-term fiscal stability. Chairwoman Michaela Hammerson said, “Considering the fact that the agency was essentially insolvent less than 8 months ago, this is a wonderful achievement”.

For more information about Umpqua Public Transit District, go to: www.umpquatransit.org