LTD to Continue Talks on Replacing General Manager

By Matt Cooper, The Register-Guard, Eugene, Ore.

Jan. 19–The board of the Lane Transit District decided Wednesday that its talks on a new general manager should continue next month.

After accepting General Manager Ken Hamm’s resignation in December, the board had considered trying to nail down — by the end of this month — the criteria for finding his replacement. Instead, the board will continue that discussion Feb. 15.

The move illustrates the fragile environment at LTD, and the board’s hope to improve strained relations between workers and managers.

The district faces many upcoming challenges, and the board should have a thorough discussion about the best time to install a new general manager, board member Susan Ban said.

The challenges include a change in maintenance supervisors, the start of a rapid-bus service in December and contract talks next year with the union.

The district is still recovering from last year’s contract negotiation, which was settled after a weeklong strike by bus drivers.

The board had considered trying to find a new general manager as early as September.

Instead, the board will discuss whether it’s better for Assistant General Manager Mark Pangborn, a longtime employee, to see the district through the coming issues and to replace the top post later.

Many workers were critical of Hamm, and some in the union have said they’ll take a wait-and-see approach with Pangborn.

Pangborn will become the interim general manager no later than March 3, Hamm’s last day.

Pangborn has not announced whether he will seek the general manager post, and he could not be reached for comment after Wednesday’s meeting.

Board member Dean Kortge said he favors a national search for a new general manager, and one that is done quickly.

The board will discuss how long Pangborn should serve in the interim, whether to move quickly on finding a new general manager and whether to fill the position from within the ranks, board President Gerry Gaydos said.

Continuing the review in February should allow ample time for public input, Gaydos added.

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