City manager recommends new METRA transit system director for council approval
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- City Manager recommends Everett Bernard Fleming as METRA Transit System Director, pending Columbus Council approval on October 13, 2026.
- Fleming has 28+ years transit experience and served as METRA Interim Director since December 2025.
Columbus City Manager Tyson Begly has selected Everett Bernard Fleming to serve as Director of the METRA Transit System, pending approval by Columbus Council.
Begly is expected to bring Fleming’s appointment before Columbus Council for consideration during the council’s next scheduled business meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026.
Fleming has served with the Columbus Consolidated Government since 2017, holding positions including Parking Manager, Planning Manager, Assistant Director and, most recently, Interim Director of METRA since December 2025.
According to CCG, Fleming brings more than 28 years of experience in marketing, procurement, program development, finance, transit and federal regulations.
His professional certifications and training include DBE Procurement Systems, Financial Management Overview, Climate Change and the Landscape of Electric Vehicles, Procurement involving requests for proposals and competitive contract negotiations, Title IV and Public Transit.
Fleming also has more than five years of auditing and tax experience with Lockheed Martin.
He has received national recognition in Fortune Magazine during his work with Qwest, including recognition for assisting with the implementation of a contract that provided computer firewall protection for Qwest employees, along with other professional awards.
Begly said Fleming’s knowledge, background and experience in transit will provide continuity as he moves into the permanent director position.
Fleming comes highly recommended by Begly’s selection committee, which includes Deputy City Managers Lisa Goodwin and Pam Hodge, Finance Director Angelica Alexander and Human Resources Director Ola Terrell.
“I am privileged to accept the appointment as METRA Transit System’s Director and am inspired by the opportunity to lead our transit system into its next chapter of growth and service,” Fleming said.
“This role is more than a position, it is a commitment to ensuring that every resident and visitor has access to safe, efficient, and equitable transportation,” Fleming continued. “I believe that by working collaboratively with our skilled team, community partners, and local leaders, we can create a transit network that not only meets today’s needs but also anticipates the demands of the future.”
“Together, we will build a system that supports mobility, fosters economic opportunity, and strengthens the fabric of our community,” he said.
Fleming was born and raised in Forrest City, Arkansas, and currently resides in Columbus.
He is a graduate of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in accounting. He also holds dual master’s degrees from Regis University in Market Strategy and Information Systems.
Fleming has three children and one grandchild.
If approved by Columbus Council, Fleming will become the permanent Director of the METRA Transit System.
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