Western Oakland Transportation Authority (WOTA) provides transportation for adults in north-western Oakland County. Our mission is help riders maintain or develop their independence. Our vision is to keep individuals independent, active, and fully engaged in their community and throughout Oakland County.
Our Story
WOTA began in January 2020 on the eve of a global pandemic. Four communities saw the value of having comprehensive transportation for seniors and adults with disabilities. By collaborating, the communities pooled their resources to 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. The 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.
Since 2022, WOTA has expanded our service area, operate 7 days a week, serve 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.
This past year, WOTA has been working with all the Oakland County transit providers to facilitate trips throughout Oakland County. This allows riders to get to different locations with minimal cost.
WOTA is Here to Get You There!
Partnerships
WOTA is a product of community partnership. People working together for the common good. WOTA's growth and expansion would not be possible without the generous support of Oakland County taxpayers. The Oakland County Transit Millage allowed for a more robust service to meet the needs of our community.
In addition, WOTA is a proud member of several community organizations including Highland White Lake Business Association, Waterford Chamber of Commerce, North Oakland Chamber of Commerce and Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. We work closely with area senior centers, community parks and rec programs, our various school districts, libraries, and food banks.
Employment Opportunities
WOTA has several openings available. To apply directly or find out more about our available positions, please click below. You may also download the application below to be considered for a position in the future. Open applications may be emailed to [email protected].
The Board
Rick Hamill, Highland Township
Rik Kowall, White Lake Township
Anthony Bartolotta, Waterford Township
L. Dennis Whitt, Walled Lake
Kathy Plafchan, ADA Advisor
George Kullis, Holly Township
Heidi Bey, Senior Advisor
Financials
2026 Board Meeting Dates
Board Meetings will be held at the Highland Township Auditorium, located at 205 John Street, Highland, Michigan on the fourth Tuesday of the month unless otherwise noted.
January 27
February 24 - Cancelled
March 24
April 28 - Cancelled
May 26
No June Meeting
July 28th- Budget Meeting #1
August 25 - Budget Meeting #2
September 22
October 27
November 24
December 22
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
WOTA Board documents are below. Some older archived documents may not be fully ADA accessible. Read our ADA Compliance Guidelines for more information.
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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 [email protected] for Zoom information. Minutes and Agendas can be found below.
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- Agendas (2)
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- Minutes (1)
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