Dana Point Leader Takes OCTA Chair, Guiding Transit Forward

Dana Point council member Federico becomes OCTA Board Chair for 2026 term

OCTA Names Dana Point Council Member 2026 Chair

Orange County's transit agency has new leadership for 2026. Federico, a Dana Point council member, takes over as Board Chair of the Orange County Transportation Authority, officials announced Tuesday. The transition became official January 28 when Federico received the gavel from outgoing chair Doug Chaffee, marking a leadership change for the 18-member board that oversees transportation policy across the county.

Leadership Role and Board Structure

The OCTA Board Chair leads an 18-member Board of Directors responsible for transportation decisions affecting Orange County's 3.2 million residents. The board oversees bus operations, freeway projects, and regional transportation planning across the county's 34 cities. Board chairs typically serve one-year terms and rotate among elected officials from member cities, though specific details about Federico's background and previous board experience weren't available by publication time. The leadership structure ensures representation from communities throughout Orange County.

Transition Details and Board Priorities

Federico officially assumed the chair position January 28, according to the transit agency's announcement. The transition follows standard OCTA procedures for annual leadership changes among board members. Officials didn't specify Federico's priorities for the coming year or detail planned initiatives under the new leadership. The agency typically announces board priorities and work plans in early months of each chair's term, though a timeline for when those details will be released wasn't provided.

Implementation and Agency Operations

The leadership change took effect immediately following the January 28 announcement, transit officials said. Federico will preside over regular board meetings and represent OCTA in regional transportation discussions throughout 2026. The agency didn't provide information about committee assignments or specific responsibilities Federico will oversee as chair. OCTA continues day-to-day operations under existing management while the board provides policy direction.

Impact on Orange County Transit

The leadership transition affects governance of Orange County's primary transit agency, which operates bus service and manages transportation projects throughout the region. Riders won't see immediate service changes from the board leadership transition, as day-to-day operations continue under agency management. Officials said the new chair will guide policy decisions affecting future transit planning and infrastructure investments. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for OCTA bus routes throughout Orange County.