In a dramatic turn of events, the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) board has initiated a process to remove its CEO, Lona Edwards Hankins, from her position. This move, led by the newly installed board chair, Ann Duplessis, signals a significant shift in the agency's leadership and direction.
The board's decision to oust Hankins comes amidst a backdrop of controversy and a desire for change. Mayor Helena Moreno, who appointed the new board, has made it clear that she wants a fresh start for the RTA. The catalyst for this change was the discovery of a quietly amended contract extension for Hankins, which was approved without public notice or a full board vote.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the timing and the circumstances surrounding Hankins' contract amendment. The amendment, dated just days after Moreno's mayoral victory, extended Hankins' contract until 2031 and introduced a new bonus structure. This move, executed by the previous board chair, Fred Neal Jr., an appointee of former Mayor LaToya Cantrell, has now been deemed invalid by the current board.
From my perspective, this raises questions about the transparency and accountability of the previous board's actions. It also highlights the importance of public oversight and the need for clear guidelines when it comes to executive contracts and appointments.
While Hankins has overseen some successes during her tenure, including increased ridership and federal funding, her background in public transit has been a point of contention. She joined the RTA with experience in managing large projects but lacked the minimum qualifications for the CEO position during the 2019 board search. The board's decision to lower the experience requirement during the 2023 search, without explanation, has now come under scrutiny.
The board's actions on Saturday were decisive. They voted to invalidate Hankins' contract extension, begin negotiations for her departure, and initiate a national search for her replacement. These steps demonstrate a commitment to transparency and a desire to rebuild public trust in the RTA.
In my opinion, this is a critical juncture for the RTA. The agency, which oversees a diverse fleet of buses, streetcars, shuttles, and ferries, needs strong and qualified leadership to navigate the challenges of public transportation. The new board's focus on righting the ship and serving the ridership effectively is a welcome development.
As the process moves forward, it will be interesting to see how the negotiations with Hankins unfold and who the board selects as the new CEO. The RTA's future direction and the public's trust in the agency's leadership are at stake.
This story is a reminder of the importance of accountability, transparency, and qualified leadership in public institutions. It also highlights the impact that mayoral appointments and board compositions can have on the direction of key agencies.
In conclusion, the RTA board's decision to move towards ousting Hankins is a bold step towards a new era for the agency. While challenges lie ahead, the board's commitment to serving the public and rebuilding trust is a positive sign for the future of public transportation in the region.
