A couple of regional councillors who usually come from very different sides of the political spectrum have come together to urge support for the total mobility scheme. At an Otago Regional Council meeting this week the council agreed to reduce the fare cap by 10%. The scheme provides subsidised door-to-door transport for those with long-term impairments who are unable to safely and reliably use conventional public transport. The government subsidy level for the service rose from 50% to 75% in 2022, leading to significant increases in usage and right across the country. This had led to increased costs incurred at the local and national level, with the regional council forecasting an overspend of $1.3million in three years. The government had introduced changes in December last year to reduce the increased costs. It would reduce the subsidy from 75% to 65% and reduce fare caps by 10%. The council’s decision this week would lead to a fare cap reduction from $50 to $45.…