The expression “like the Phoenix rising from the ashes” describes so well what appears to be happening with our Twin Transit system now that Joe Clark has become systems director. As with the magnificent Phoenix bird of Greek legend, our bus system almost died recently, a victim of past neglect and extreme mismanagement under the previous director. However, I realized, when I attended Joe Clark’s first board meeting on May 21, that our bus system is now well on its way to becoming an integral and important part of our community.
For one thing, the people attending this board meeting represented not only members of the bus-riding public but also people working in public agencies who were there to see how Twin Transit could help their clients. Mr. Clark was able to respond to agency representatives in a manner that showed he is open to meeting as many community needs as possible both in the present and in the future.
As the board meeting progressed and Joe Clark described the changes he is making in the system, I could tell that he is, indeed, a person who considers himself a public servant. He sees his position with Twin Transit as a way to give the best service possible to the people who need and use the bus system and to meet the expectations of all the taxpayers who pay for the system.
From the comments Mr. Clark made regarding his employees during the course of Tuesday’s board meeting, I could tell that in addition to taking his responsibility to the public seriously, our new systems director respects and values all Twin Transit employees in whatever capacity they work. He also encourages employees of Twin Transit and members of the public to give him suggestions for improvement and makes himself available to listen to transit-related ideas.
One promise made by both the board and by Joe Clark is the promise of transparency, especially financial transparency. If you look on the website (twintransit.org) and click on “News,” you will find a power point summary of Mr. Clark’s presentation, including detailed budget information. (Hint: if you have a Windows-system computer and see the presentation presented in portrait orientation, just right-click to get the menu bar. Then click on the circular arrow that allows you to adjust the view.)
Please remember that our bus isn’t just for “the other person”; it’s for you, too! If you drive an automobile now and your car is in the shop or if you no longer can drive, Twin Transit is there for you. See Twin Transit’s web site (twintransit.org) or call Twin Transit’s office at 360-330-2072 for more information. Give Joe a call if you have questions about some of the items in this letter. Times and places of the monthly board meetings are announced in The Chronicle and on Twin Transit’s web site and Facebook site. I hope to see you at the next board meeting!
Jean Fairgrieve
Chehalis
