Following the announced retirement of two managers, Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) workers were relieved to hear that the road ahead is clear.
“We are all in this together,” said Manatee County Administrator Scott Hopes, as he introduced new leadership. Hopes was on hand at every shift change Thursday to let the Transit Operators and staff know that the workplace climate is changing – thanks to their feedback. After reviewing and raising starting salaries for drivers over the past several months, Manatee County Human Resources representatives conducted employee surveys that found other non-monetary issues were creating a climate that needed to be changed.
“We are all about respect,” said Hopes. “This is our commitment to you.”
Matthew Case – who has been the Manager of Fleet Services for Manatee County – has been named Interim Manager Transit.
“It is a change for the good,“ he said, adding that he is eager to apply more than 25 years of automotive service and finance experience to help keep MCAT moving forward.
“We all have the same goal,“ said Jonathan Roberson – who brings more than 20 years of experience in the public transit arena as the new Operations Chief. “That goal… is helping the passengers.”
“Management is in place to ensure staff support,“ noted Dr. Hopes, whose appearance comes on the heels of a news conference where he outlined pro-active personnel moves to increase accountability and productivity in another county department Wednesday.
“I won’t tolerate favoritism,” he said emphatically. “I won’t tolerate harassment.”
Hopes – whose candid question and answer session with workers ended with handshakes and thanks -- also committed to further employee satisfaction surveys in transit and other county departments. Noting that Manatee County workers are the ones who touch everyone who lives in – and visits – our community, he talked about the importance of keeping smiles on the faces of those who are the face of Manatee County.
“Climate is perception,” he said. “Perception is important in employee satisfaction. Things are going to improve.”