LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A man who served numerous roles in Louisville Metro Government over the last three decades has found a permanent position in city government.
Ozzy Gibson was named the new executive director of the Transit Authority of River City (TARC) on Friday.
Mayor Craig Greenberg said Gibson, who has served as TARC's interim director since January, would immediately begin serving in the new role. During a special meeting to discuss a proposed agreement with Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), the TARC board approved Gibson's appointment and his $225,000 salary.
"Ozzy has led TARC through successful negotiations to keep TARC drivers employed both through an agreement with union leadership and JCPS that will also restore school bus routes, as well as navigating the financial challenges due to the American Rescue Plan funding coming to an end," the mayor said.
Gibson said he's honored to take on this role as Louisville's public transit system faces "challenging times."
He has more than three decades of experience in local government, including roles with the Louisville Metro Police Department, Metro Animal Services, Public Health, Public Works, Fleet and Facilities and Louisville Parks and Recreation.
"Serving the residents of Louisville has taught me many important lessons about how to rise to a challenge," Gibson said. "Most importantly, I know I have a top-notch team here at TARC. I am prepared to continue to work with Mayor Greenberg's team, Metro Councilmembers, our union and our community as we roll up our sleeves to forge consensus and identify real solutions to better serve TARC's existing and future customers."
TARC board chair Ted Smith signaled his support for Gibson prior to Friday's special meeting.
"TARC is facing real challenges, but we also have real opportunities," he said. "Ozzy has proven again and again that he is the kind of leader who can successfully navigate challenges and knows how to take advantage of an opportunity."
In January, Gibson was named the new executive director of LMAS and expected to begin serving in that role later this year.
Greenberg said the city will begin a new search to fill that position.
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