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Board appoints two incumbents to Kalamazoo County Transportation Authority after interviews
Summary
After interviews with two incumbents, Paul Eklund and James Ayers, the board voted to reappoint both to the Kalamazoo County Transportation Authority; commissioners discussed candidates’ transit experience and diversity, and the motion carried by roll call.
The Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners interviewed two incumbent candidates and voted April 1 to reappoint Paul Eklund and James Ayers to the Kalamazoo County Transportation Authority (KCTA).
Commissioners questioned each candidate about experience, work with diverse communities, and how they would use their backgrounds to support transit. Paul Eklund described his personal reliance on public transit and his work with Disability Network Southwest Michigan, citing accessibility and improvements to bus stops and MetroLink as items he has helped the advisory body pursue. James Ayers said he wanted to continue as an advocate for transit, described training he has taken on anti-racism and DEIA, and highlighted accomplishments including rollout of microtransit and outreach work to jurisdictions.
Commissioner Dhillau moved to reappoint both incumbents; the motion was supported and the clerk conducted a roll call. The vote was recorded as 8 yes and carried. The board will notify candidates of the appointment process and administrative staff will follow up with next steps.
Ending: Commissioners thanked both candidates for their service. Eklund and Ayers will receive follow-up communications from county staff about their continued appointments.
