Ozzy Gibson embracing the challenge of being TARC's interim executive director

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- After three tumultuous years leading the bus service, TARC's executive director resigned.

But the new interim replacement said he is ready for the challenge.

It has been a rough last few years at TARC. Ozzy Gibson will now be the 3rd leader of TARC in just four years and riders are hopeful the leadership change means changes for the service.

"The wait time — the wait times are ridiculous," Jason Chambers, a TARC rider, said.

TARC buses are the only way to get around for Chambers. So, the struggles the transit service is facing impact him every day.

"They got this transit app and its inaccurate most of the time," Chambers said.

TARC Executive director Carrie Butler resigned after leading for three years. During this time the service faced many challenges including stranding riders who have disabilities for hours, late buses and staffing shortages.

Carrie Butler.jpeg — Carrie Butler, former TARC executive director. (WDRB file photo)

On Jan. 1, Gibson is taking over as the interim executive director.

Taking over organizations is nothing new to Gibson, he's held leadership positions at 11 different Louisville Metro Agencies.

"I've done this so many times, I am well prepared," Gibson said.

“For more than 30 years Ozzy has proudly served our city, first as a police officer and then as a leader with Metro Animal Services, Public Health, Public Works, Fleet & Facilities, and Louisville Parks and Recreation,” Mayor Craig Greenberg said. "He will bring his excellent communication and leadership skills to TARC while we search for a permanent executive director. We are incredibly grateful for his commitment to Metro Government and to the people of Louisville.”

But he has his hands full. He's also the interim executive director of Metro Parks and Recreation, which is a role he's not sure when he'll be done with.

He said he'll be juggling both until he is relieved from that position.

His top priority is finalizing a plan for 2025 and addressing the organizations budget shortfall.

Butler will serve "as a consultant to TARC" during the transitional period, Jan. 1 through June 30, 2024.

"I've been very impressed with their organization and their plans and where they're going right now we just have a big hurdle to overcome," Gibson said.

It's a hurdle riders hope Gibson is able to conquer.

"I'm hoping for the best honestly," Chambers said.

The Mayor’s Office is conducting a nationwide search to find TARC’s next permanent executive director.

Related Stories: