In a recent meeting of the California Transportation Commission held in San Diego, Mario Orso, the newly appointed CEO of Sandec, emphasized the importance of delivering effective transportation solutions for California. With a background of over three decades at Caltrans, Orso expressed gratitude for the support from the commission and pledged to utilize the allocated funds responsibly to meet the transportation needs of the San Diego region.

The meeting also featured a heartfelt tribute to the late Commissioner Joe Tavolone, who served for over 22 years, making him the longest-serving member in the commission's history. Chair Gardino and other commissioners shared personal anecdotes highlighting Tavolone's dedication, kindness, and significant impact on transportation policy in California. His legacy was celebrated with a moment of silence and plans for a formal resolution in his honor at the upcoming winter meeting.

Commissioners from Riverside and San Bernardino counties also spoke, recalling Tavolone's warmth and mentorship. They described him as a family figure within the commission, affectionately known as \"Uncle Joe,\" and praised his unwavering commitment to improving mobility across the state.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to adjourn in Tavolone's honor, reflecting the profound loss felt by his colleagues and the transportation community. The executive director acknowledged Tavolone's legacy as a guiding force for the commission, reinforcing the importance of his contributions to California's transportation landscape.