Long Time Bus Drivers Honored

At the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District Board of Directors meeting on June 23, 2010, three longtime employees were honored for their years of service. “These are three of four aces, and they represent what MTD is all about: people helping people,” said former Board member Lee Moldaver. “Their nearly 90 years represents service at the highest level, and I thank you for recognizing them.”

Santa Barbara native and SBHS graduate Nick Uribe started at MTD in 1975. After 35 years as a driver, Uribe is now #5 in seniority. He thanked his extended family, about 15 of whom were in attendance to see him accept his award. “I really found a home here, in this stable working environment at MTD.” Uribe intends to continue at MTD for at least another five years.

Tom Mendoza is retiring after 21 years of service. A former school bus driver, Mendoza thanked MTD for giving him the opportunity to be a driver.

When Jim Haggerty started at MTD in 1974, there were only 12 drivers and 20 buses in the MTD fleet. One of 20 new drivers hired in a two-day hiring blast, Haggerty says, “After that, the buses just kept coming. The growth of MTD over the next five years was manic, but in a good way.” Haggerty is retiring after 35 years and 10 months at MTD, having served as a driver, in accounting, as assistant to the general manager and, for the last six years, in the Planning Department.

“It has been my honor to serve with you gentlemen,” said Board Chair Dave Davis. “When I came to the board, I found a family. Thank you for your service.”

Each honoree received a plaque and the gratitude of the Board of Directors.

The Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD), with its focus on passenger service, provides a reliable, safe and comfortable means of mobility to those who lack other transportation, including students, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.