About RTA: Organization

RTA structured as a political subdivision

RTA is a political subdivision of the State, created under Chapter 306 of the Ohio Revised Code. All power and authority granted to RTA is vested in, and exercised by, its Board of Trustees, which is charged with managing and conducting RTA’s affairs. The Board also establishes overall RTA administrative policies, which are implemented by the General Manager. Four documents establish the parameters for the governance of RTA, as well as the powers, responsibilities and duties of RTA, its Board of Trustees, officers, management and employees.

Documents establishing RTA

• Chapter 306 of the Ohio Revised Code establishes the powers and structure of regional transit authorities in Ohio.
• RTA’s by-laws establish procedures by which the RTA Board governs itself and conducts its business.
• Codification of the Policies and Procedures of the RTA Board which includes all of the policies and rules adopted by the Board.
• Memorandum of Understanding/Articles of Incorporation between the City of Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and suburban communities agreeing upon the incorporation of RTA.

Board of Trustees Composition

In 1974, legislation enacted by the Cuyahoga County Commissioners and the City of Cleveland created RTA with a 10-member Board of Trustees serving overlapping three-year terms.

Appointments are as follows:

City of Cleveland — Four members are appointed by the Mayor of Cleveland, and approved by City Council. All appointees must reside in Cleveland.

Suburbs — Three members are elected by the Mayors and City Managers of municipal corporations, other than Cleveland, within Cuyahoga County.

County — Three members are appointed by the Cuyahoga County Commissioners, and at least one of these three appointees must be a resident of the City of Cleveland.

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