Transit Board Members Program

Sound procurement decision-making is a fundamental responsibility of transit agency boards. How is the procurement landscape changing and why? What are your ethical and fiduciary responsibilities as a board member? What questions should you be asking when considering a procurement for your agency? Join procurement experts for this overview and conversation.

Join one of these concurrent discussions designed explicitly for Transit Board Members.

• The Art and Science of Board Chairship: The Board Chair is not only responsible for leading meetings but ensuring good governance and overseeing the agency's strategic direction together with the CEO. Join this discussion with fellow Board Chairs (current, upcoming or recent) to share your experience and address your key successes and challenges in chairing your Board.
  Table Leads: Mary Morrison, TARTA and Reginald Townsend, KCATA
• Succeeding as a New Board Member: What does it take to position yourself for success as a new board member? What information should you be requesting? Join this discussion to ask your burning questions and connect with fellow board members, seasoned and new.
  Table Leads: David Stackrow, Sr., CDTA and Ted Smith, BJCTA
• Hiring and Onboarding a New CEO: The hiring of a new CEO, when the time comes, is one of the most critical roles a board plays. Hear from agencies that have recently conducted a successful search. Discuss best practices and lessons learned about how to start and structure the process to attract the best candidates and make sound decisions. 
  Table Leads: Gary Giovanetti, RTD and Denise Figueroa, CDTA

Public transportation plays a critical role in moving millions of people during large and mega events. How do transit agencies prepare their systems to successfully carry a surge in ridership which brings increased operating costs, fleet expansion, workforce training, safety and

security enhancements, and accessible infrastructure. How can special events be an opportunity for legacy improvements that benefit the community for years to come?

Hear from transit leaders of host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.

Whether you are a seasoned APTA member or completely new, join this session to get (re-)acquainted with APTA’s role as an association, what services and resources are available to you and how you can make the most of your involvement. Meet with the leadership of APTA and the APTA Transit Board Members and Administrators Committees and bring your questions and ideas.

What is the current political climate and outlook for federal support for transit and how do we ensure the next reauthorization of federal surface transportation funding meets transit industry expectations? Review key legislative priorities for the industry, how APTA engages on the Hill and the role of transit board members as an instrumental voice.

KCATA has nine Transit-Oriented Community Development facilities in various stages of development. As a bi-state authority, KCATA has a variety of tools at its disposal, including conduit bond financing, land assemblage, sales tax exemptions, eminent domain and capacity and land management use. This tour will highlight Transit oriented community development visiting 4 of the 9 projects that are underway in Kansas City.

Meet in the lobby to board KCATA buses located south of the front drive on Wyandotte Street.

Please Note: This tour is first come-first serve and particpants need to sign up at the local host desk on site to participate. After the tour, buses will go directly to the social event BUT for those not on the tour there will be shuttles from the hotel.