MEMBERS OF AC TRANSIT'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADDRESS FINDINGS OF INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION

MEMBERS OF AC TRANSIT'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADDRESS FINDINGS OF INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION

My fellow Board Directors and I are keenly aware of published reports alleging inappropriate conduct between two of our elected colleagues.

We take our responsibility for transparency seriously. That means addressing verified facts, not speculation, while also respecting information that may be privileged, confidential, or otherwise legally protected.

Here are the facts we can address:

One Board Director raised a concern that they had experienced unwanted physical contact from another Board Director and that the contact violated Board policies. The allegation arose from our September 24, 2025, public meeting, when our Transit District was collectively mourning the loss of a beloved, long-time Board member.

It was an extraordinarily emotional time. Members of the public, employees, and Board members alike shared kind words, expressions of support, and embraces as we mourned together.

When the concern was raised, the Board took it seriously. The matter was promptly referred to an independent investigator, who carefully reviewed witness statements, relevant AC Transit policies, and available video evidence to determine what occurred.

Following that review, the investigator found three allegations of unwanted physical contact to be unsubstantiated. The investigator did, however, substantiate a fourth allegation, finding that conduct on September 24 violated the District's Policy Prohibiting Gender-Based Harassment.

In considering the investigation and the circumstances surrounding that day, we believe Director Young was offering solace and support to a colleague during an extraordinarily difficult and emotional moment.

Director Young is the longest-serving member of the current Board, serving since 2009, including as Vice President and President. His tenure includes securing more than $600 million for AC Transit, advancing workforce development and transit technology, expanding the District's zero emission fleet, and representing AC Transit nationally, including at the White House Roundtable on Clean Bus Manufacturing.

That record provides important context for understanding the commitment he has made to AC Transit and the communities we collectively serve.

We respect the concerns that were raised. We respect the independent investigation that followed. And we respect its findings.

When a Board policy violation is found, the Board has the authority to consider disciplinary action. Importantly, any such action must be considered openly during a public meeting, consistent with California's open-meeting requirements. To date, no meeting to consider discipline has been scheduled.

Our responsibility now is to remain grounded in those facts, uphold the standards of this Board, and refocus our attention where it is needed most: protecting service for our riders and communities as AC Transit navigates one of the most challenging fiscal periods in its 66-year history.

Sincerely,