The Caltrain Board of Directors voted 6-3 yesterday to approve fee increases as part of a budget-balancing plan for fiscal year 2012. The board’s decision keeps service at 86 trains per weekday and adds 25 cents to the price of one-way tickets and 50 cents to day passes. It also increases daily parking fees from $3 to $4 and monthly parking fees from $30 to $40. The changes will take effect July 1.

Board members Sean Elsbernd, Omar Ahmad and Jose Cisneros voted against the resolution, arguing that “it was not a sustainable funding plan,” according to Caltrain spokeswoman Christine Dunn.

Although the Board expects the new prices to mean higher revenues, the plan still leaves a projected $3.5 million budget deficit. To fill the hole, the board is seeking additional money from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), which oversees Bay Area transportation-related funding, and Joint Powers Board (JPB) partner agencies.

“The capital funds for operating expenses have yet to be finalized,” Dunn said.

If it fails to close the gap, the Board will have to revisit the budget later this year.

An earlier plan, presented April 7, would have reduced service to 76 trains per weekday and closed three stations, but also increased fares and fees the same amount as the approved plan and asked for an increase in JPB partner agency contributions.

The budget will be balanced with one-time sources this year, meaning the board will have to look for more funding come next year.

–Tyler Brown