April has seen continuing turmoil at TransLink, Metro Vancouver’s transportation authority, generating widespread coverage from mass media and from bloggers.

A root cause of TransLink’s financial and administrative problems, in the view of many, is the convoluted governance structure outlined in the authority’s Governance Manual and 2012 Base Plan.  This structure leaves the region’s mayors taking political heat but having little control.  Public and media blame the TransLink Mayors’ Council for the system’s failings,  but the council lacks even a dedicated staff person at the transit corporation’s offices.  Annual operating plans are devised by a Board, which is  appointed by a revolving Panel.  The mayors “review and provide input.” Continue reading →