Capital Metro’s board of directors is getting a new look with the appointment of a new chairman and vice chair of the board as well as a new member.
Wade Cooper, who joined the board in 2014, has been elected chair following a unanimous vote by his fellow board members. Cooper becomes the board’s first new chairman since 2010 and succeeds Mike Martinez.
“Wade’s experience as an accomplished attorney and civic leader makes him an excellent choice to lead the board,” said Capital Metro President/CEO Linda S. Watson. “In his time with Capital Metro, he has immersed himself into the transit world, providing thoughtful engagement and forward thinking. We’re fortunate to have him as part of our team.”
Councilmember Delia Garza joins the board as the elected official appointee of the Austin City Council. Councilmember Garza replaces Chris Riley, who had served on the board since 2007.
“From the moment she announced her candidacy for city council, Councilmember Garza has reached out to Capital Metro to discuss transit issues facing her district as well as throughout Austin,” Watson said. “Her desire to serve as a board member shows her commitment to improving the lives of all Austinites. We’re excited to see her passion for the community up close and personal.”
Joining Cooper in a new leadership role is Beverly Silas, who will serve as vice-chair. Ann Stafford will continue to serve as the board’s secretary.
Cooper is currently the firmwide managing partner of Jackson Walker L.L.P. and is also the former chairman of the Downtown Austin Alliance (DAA), where he is currently a member of the DAA’s Advisory Board.
Councilmember Garza was elected to the Austin City Council as the District 2 representative in November 2014, becoming the first Hispanic woman elected to the city council. She is a former firefighter turned attorney who served as assistant attorney general where she advocated for Texas families in the Child Support Division.
Cooper will begin serving in the chairman’s role and Councilmember Garza will be sworn in at the March 23 board meeting.
