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WRTA board covers broad area
YOUNGSTOWN — The new Western Reserve Transit Authority board members should start their terms with “an open mind,” said executive director James Ferraro.
Understanding the WRTA’s goal of providing public transportation to as many people in the Mahoning Valley as possible is essential for the incoming board, he said.
At the end of 2008, the WRTA board ceased to be an all-city board and has since become a countywide board. The change was necessary after Mahoning County residents passed the 0.25 percent, five-year sales tax, in November 2008.
“Hopefully, they [new board] want to help us move forward and will be productive,” said Tom Nugen, director of transportation.
Three members of the previous board, Michael Bosela, the Rev. Edward Noga and Barbara Orton, all of Youngstown, were reappointed by Mayor Jay Williams.
The county commissioners also appointed four members: George Freeman Jr. of Youngstown, Steven V. Gondol of North Jackson, Lee F. Kohler of Springfield Township, and John P. Brown III of Boardman.
Ferraro and Nugen are anxious to see what the new board members will bring to the table.
“[John Brown] has always been a strong advocate of WRTA, especially for the veterans,” Ferraro said.
Brown is the former national commander of AMVETS, a veterans organization, and is a lifelong Valley resident.
“I think it’s time for me to give a little more to the community and help [WRTA] serve the suburbanites” Brown said.
The countywide services will not only benefit city residents who need to go to the suburbs, but will hopefully bring people to Youngstown, he said.
“I hope this board will help develop Youngstown and the surrounding areas,” Brown said.
Having two members from outer suburb areas also will be helpful, Ferraro and Nugen said.
Gondol will be able to share his knowledge of the North Jackson region, and Kohler can extend information for areas in southeastern Mahoning County, they said.
Freeman has already called and visited the WRTA offices, which shows his interest, Ferraro said.
The three previous members have each served the board for at least six years, and the Rev. Mr. Noga said the former board worked hard to get the sales tax passed so services could be restored and extended.
“[WRTA] has tremendous potential,” said Mr. Noga, who is glad to still be a part of its movement and success.
WRTA restored nights and Saturday services at the beginning of February, and the countywide services are targeted to start in September, Ferraro said.
“We have a lot of educating to do about the possibilities,” said Mr. Noga, referring to the old members’ passing on knowledge to the new board members.
“It will be done since we have the necessary backing,” he said.
The new board will arrange its first meeting in the near future and also will have elections for board president and other offices, Ferraro said.