Link Transit is nearing the selection of a new Chief Executive Officer as Richard DeRock's retirement in August approaches.
Chelan County Commissioner Kevin Overbay confirmed the acceptance of an offer by one of the finalists after reaching a consensus.
A special meeting has been scheduled by the transit board on Friday at 9 am to finalize a contract for the chosen CEO candidate. The finalists include Nick Covey, Link Transit's Chief of Staff, and administrators from transit systems in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and Honolulu, Hawaii.
The Prothman Company, a recruiting firm, was enlisted to aid in the CEO search. From 14 initial applicants, nine candidates were interviewed via video conference. The board then narrowed it down to three finalists.
DeRock, with a salary just above $160,000, leaves behind big shoes to fill, having led the transit for many years.
Link Transit, funded by a local sales and use tax, began operations in December 1991. By next year, the transit expects to be funded by a 0.6% sales and use tax within its two-county service district. The transit governing board comprises representatives from cities within Link's district, along with Douglas County and Chelan County, as mandated by state law.