Governing–a national media publication and resource for states and localities–has named MARTA GM/CEO Keith T. Parker, AICP to its roster of 2016 Public Officials of the Year. This honor is reserved for government leaders who exemplify the ideals of public service.
 
“I am humbled to receive this recognition from Governing. Turning around MARTA has been a team effort. In just a few years, we’ve made remarkable progress toward making MARTA one of the most cutting-edge and well-regarded transit systems in the country,” MARTA GM/CEO Keith Parker said.
 
During Parker’s tenure, MARTA has dramatically improved the agency’s finances (resulting in multiple credit rating upgrades), provided employee raises, and increased bus and train service, while not raising fares.  Parker has launched innovative technology projects including “Smarta” restrooms, mobile fare payments, pop-up farmers markets, and introduced the world’s first soccer field inside a train station. As a result, MARTA’s customer service ratings have increased sharply over the past four years.  
 
“Under Keith Parker’s leadership, MARTA has improved the public perception of MARTA, enhanced our working relationship with the state of Georgia, and just received a tremendous vote of confidence from the citizens of Atlanta, through a $2.5 billion transit referendum that passed with 72 percent approval. This recognition is rightfully earned.”  Parker was also honored as the 2015 Manager of the Year by the American Public Transportation Association.
 
“It can be a tough time to be a public official right now,” said Governing Executive Editor Zach Patton. “It’s more important than ever for us to highlight the great work being done by these outstanding state and local public servants.”
 
Governing’s 2016 Public Officials of the Year include:
 
·        Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker

·        King County, Wash., Executive Dow Constantine

·        Utah Executive Director of Management and Budget Kristen Cox

·        Denver Mayor Michael Hancock

·        Miami-Dade County Judge Steven Leifman

·        San Diego County Director of Housing and Human Development Nick Macchione

·        Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) GM/CEO Keith T. Parker

·        South Dakota State Sen. Deb Peters
 
The winners will be profiled in the December issue of the magazine and honored at a Nov. 30 reception in Washington, D.C.