Dana Point Leader Takes OCTA Chair Role
Dana Point council member Jamey Federico assumes OCTA Board Chair role in January 2026
OCTA Names Dana Point Council Member as Board Chair
Orange County's transit agency has new leadership overseeing transportation decisions across the region. Jamey M. Federico, a Dana Point council member, took over as Orange County Transportation Authority Board Chair in January 2026, transit officials said. Federico replaces Doug Chaffee in the role, which leads the 18-member Board of Directors responsible for transit policy and infrastructure decisions affecting Orange County's 3.2 million residents.
Leadership Role Oversees Regional Transit Decisions
The Board Chair position directs policy discussions for public transit operations, highway improvements, and regional mobility initiatives across Orange County, according to the transit agency. OCTA operates bus service throughout the county and oversees freeway projects that connect communities from coastal cities to inland areas. Officials didn't specify the length of Federico's term or detail his specific priorities for the coming year. Transit authority board chairs typically serve one-year terms and rotate among elected officials from member cities and the county government.
Federico Brings Municipal Experience to Regional Role
Federico's background as a Dana Point council member gives him experience with local transportation issues that affect coastal communities in South Orange County. The Board Chair role requires coordinating among 34 cities and the county to balance competing transportation needs and funding priorities. Officials haven't released information about Federico's committee assignments or specific goals for his chairmanship. The 18-member board includes city council members, mayors, and county supervisors who meet monthly to approve budgets, service changes, and infrastructure projects.
Transition Marks Start of 2026 Leadership Term
The leadership change took effect in January 2026, with Federico assuming the chair position at the start of the calendar year. Transit agencies typically rotate board leadership annually, allowing different municipalities to guide regional priorities. Officials didn't announce who'll serve as vice chair or detail the transition process between Chaffee and Federico. The timing aligns with standard practice for California transit agencies, which often install new board officers at the beginning of each year.
Leadership Change Affects Regional Transit Governance
Riders likely won't see immediate service changes from the leadership transition, as board chairs focus on governance rather than day-to-day operations. The new chair will lead meetings where directors vote on service adjustments, fare policies, and capital projects throughout 2026. Officials said the board continues its work on regional transportation priorities, though specific initiatives under Federico's leadership weren't detailed. Moovit provides real-time updates for OCTA bus routes and helps riders navigate Orange County's transit system during leadership transitions and service changes.
