The Regional Transit Authority is taking steps to dismiss its Chief Executive Officer and hire her successor.
On Saturday, the RTA board voted on three resolutions that allow them to start the process to remove Lona Edwards Hankins from her post. This move came after board members learned that the previous board quietly extended Hankins's contract through 2031. Board members said that contract extension was neither discussed nor approved in public and that the contract was signed behind closed doors.
"During the meeting, the Board issued a resolution invalidating a previously amended contract and authorized Board Chair Ann Duplessis to negotiate a separation agreement with CEO Lona Edwards Hankins on behalf of the agency," board members said in a joint statement. "A third resolution approved moving forward with a national search for the next Chief Executive Officer of the RTA."
Hankins's time as RTA CEO has been marred by complaints about service, lawsuits over compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and lawsuits filed by employees alleging harassment, retaliation, and discrimination.
“The Board of Commissioners is committed to ensuring that the RTA moves forward with transparency, accountability, and a clear vision for the future,” RTA board chairwoman Ann Duplessis said in a statement. “(Saturday)’s actions are intended to support a thoughtful leadership transition while keeping our focus on the riders, employees, and communities who depend on public transit every day. We are committed to conducting a thorough national search to identify the right leader to guide the RTA into its next chapter.”
