Changes in Leadership and Reforms at Chicago Transit Authority

Next month marks a transition for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) as seven new members of its governing board take their seats in the West Loop boardroom. One of their primary tasks will be selecting a chair for the board.

Lester Barclay, who has served as the chair of the current CTA board since his appointment by former Mayor Lori Lightfoot five years ago, has expressed interest in remaining involved. “If asked, I wouldn’t mind serving,” Barclay noted. Despite his willingness, he acknowledged the decision lies with the board.

The transition is a result of state-mandated governance reforms that consolidate power and increase funding for public transit. The terms of current board members end on September 1, making way for new appointees, though some have secured reappointments. This shift has stirred competition within the transit agency.

Barclay’s role is debated among Chicago transportation insiders. Critics view him as part of the old guard amid calls for change. Appointed to both the CTA and the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) by Mayor Brandon Johnson this summer, his appointment process faced scrutiny due to past opposition to transit reforms and infrequent CTA ridership.

Some advocacy groups, like Better Streets Chicago, express a desire for new leadership to align with reform mandates. Advocate Kyle Lucas stated, “The mandate is to start anew and build the transit system riders deserve.” Ald. Matt Martin also advocates for fresh leadership with expertise in transportation and coalition-building skills.

Despite differences in opinion, the upcoming board is less powerful under new oversight requirements from NITA, but will still influence CTA operations and the appointment of its president. Board members will earn between $15,000 and $25,000 based on dual board participation.

Other returning CTA members include Michael Eaddy and Neema Jha, along with new faces like nonprofit executive Nedra Sims Fears and Columbia College’s Ann Kalayil. RTA members Oswaldo Alvarez and Tom Kotarac are transitioning as key figures, with Kotarac leading NITA transition meetings.

The CTA chair selection awaits after the NITA board designates its leader on September 10, subject to Illinois Senate approval. State Senator Ram Villivalam emphasized the need for leadership to ensure transit systems are safe and reliable.

Barclay, who has faced criticism for minimal CTA ridership, defended himself by explaining occasional free passage due to his position and use of a personal Ventra card. His legal commitments and time limitations affect his transit usage.

Pointing to past work with CTA as legal counsel, Barclay contests claims of lacking experience. His leadership tenure has overseen periods of public dissent and transition from former president Dorval Carter Jr. to interim president Nora Leerhsen.

The RTA and NITA transition present new challenges, with board approval processes now requiring dual board involvement. Barclay highlighted that candidate options for permanent CTA presidency are being discussed, though he remains patient with the decision-making process.