The recitals below are hereby incorporated herein.
(A) The Board of the Commuter Rail Division of the Regional Transportation Authority (“Board”) seeks to increase transparency in the hiring process and ensure the hiring of the best personnel possible for the Commuter Rail Division and its operating entity, the Northeast Illinois Regional Commuter Rail Corporation (cumulatively, “Metra”).
(B) Pursuant to the Regional Transportation Authority Act (“RTA Act”), the Board has broad powers to direct the Executive Director through the policies necessary to achieve its purposes, fulfill its responsibilities and carry out its powers.
(C) Consistent with the RTA Act, the Board desires to emphasize and provide for the implementation of the prohibition of political reasons or factors (cumulatively “political considerations”) being taken into consideration for any term or aspect of employment.
(D) The Northeastern Illinois Public Transit Task Force (“Task Force”) issued a report on March 31, 2014, recommending a prohibition on the influence of elected officials or their representatives over transit agencies regarding matters of hiring, promotions or raises for transit agency employees. The Task Force also recommended, which Metra previously initiated, a certification process for employment actions.
(E) This Board desires to implement mandatory disclosures regarding any attempts at political considerations being an influence in the employment process involving individuals.
(Ord. MET 14-07, passed 4-11-2014)