About WOTA

Western Oakland Transportation Authority (WOTA) exists to provide transportation to enable residents to maintain or develop their independence. The vision of WOTA is to keep individuals active and engaged in the community.

WOTA started in January 2020 on the eve of a global pandemic.  Four communities saw the value of having efficient and effective transportation for seniors and adults with disabilities. By banding together, the communities could pool their resources and create a stand alone organization to manage the logistics of transportation. WOTA's first two months in business surpassed all expectations...then the pandemic hit.  WOTA continued to provide rides for medical and essential workers during the heart of the pandemic. As the virus waned, ridership increased. In the fall of 2022, Oakland County tax payers passed the Oakland County Transit Millage.  This millage allowed WOTA to double in size, increase the number of communities being served, expand hours/days and provide rides to veterans and low income families.

What's next?  Moving to 7 days a week, serving the general public and more. Breaking down barriers to access to medical, employment, education, and recreational activities is the goal.  Providing quality transportation is our daily mission.

WOTA is a proud member of several community organizations including Highland White Lake Business Association, Waterford Chamber of Commerce, Holly Chamber of Commerce and Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce.

Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Employment Opportunities

WOTA has several openings available.  To apply or find out more about the positions, please click below.

The Board

Rick Hamill, Highland Township

Rik Kowall, White Lake Township

Gary Wall, Waterford Township

L. Dennis Whitt, Walled Lake

Kathy Plafchan, ADA Advisor 

Erin AsdellSenior Advisor

George Kullis, Holly Township

Financials

2024 Board Meeting Dates

Board Meetings will be held at the Highland Township Auditorium, located at 205 John Street, Highland, Michigan on the third Tuesday of the month unless otherwise noted.

 

August 20 - Budget Meeting #2

September 17 - Budget Meeting Final

October 15 - Board Meeting

November 19 - Board Meeting

December 17 - Board Meeting

 

The public is welcome.

All meetings start at 9:00 a.m. unless noted.

Arrangements to reasonably accommodate special needs, including handicap accessibility or interpreter, will be made upon receiving a 72-hour advance notice (Monday through Friday). Contact WOTA at 248-887-4979 for special services.

Documents

Board Meetings

LAC Meeting Dates

WOTA's Local Advisory Council was created to provide a voice for our seniors and disabled adults and to improve WOTA's service.  The group will meet annually unless issues arise.  The LAC follows the Open Meetings Act and is available to the public.  Please contact hr.marketing@ridewota.org for Zoom information. Minutes and Agendas can be found below.