CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — A city council transportation committee gave preliminary approval to the appointment of popular minister Rev. Ira Acree to the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) Board, but the vote wasn't unanimous.
On a voice vote, Mayor Brandon Johnson's appointment of Acree, a West Side pastor, to the RTA Board was passed and sent to the full council.
Supporters on and off of the council have said Acree will be a strong voice on the board. North Side Ald. Andre Vasquez (40th), though, was one of two “no” votes. Vasquez said his vote was based on Acree's experience or, in his view, a lack thereof.
“I believe it is imperative that those who we appoint to our transportation boards at this time need the experience necessary to help hold the different agencies accountable,” he said.
Acree, though, said he's been a lifelong transit user and advocate for his community.
“I understand the critical role of excellent public transportation,” he said. “I bring a unique perspective to the board. We all win when the board is composed of diverse individuals who represent different networks.”
The other “no” vote was Ald. Scott Waguespack (32nd). Waguespack was also among those wanting CTA President Dorval Carter ousted.
“It seems like the leadership at CTA — and this has been going on for a few years now coming out of COVID — has really dropped the ball on how to get the CTA moving forward,” he said.
Acree wasn't prepared to make that judgment. He said he wants to see more data and talk with CTA Board members and others, including the alderpersons, before weighing in.
He acknowledged, though, the transit system has serious deficiencies that need correcting.
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