MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Area Transit Authority shared more troubling financial information during Tuesday’s board meeting.
Interim MATA CEO Bacarra Mauldin said they are currently under a hiring freeze, although critical needs like maintenance workers will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
They also went over the financial reports for April and May 2024.
April revenue fell short by $10.8 million, and expenses were $1.1 million over budget. May revenue was $12.6 million short, while expenses were $4 million over budget.
This is in addition to a deficit of at least $60 million.
“We’re still formulating that plan, but we’re working in partnership with our board of course, with our funding partners and, of course, our community to make sure we’re offering the best options possible,” Mauldin said. “We know that this is a challenging time, a frightening time even.”
While MATA leadership said they want to hear from the public, upset Memphians are not convinced.
“You got to answer questions if you want to collaborate with the public, and they just don’t answer questions,” said MATA watchdog Joe Kent, one of several people who spoke during the public comment period.
The City of Memphis has allocated $30 million to MATA in its latest budget.
MATA board members said they want to see cost efficiency reports from each department and once again called for dedicated funding.