Ben Edtl Announces Resignation as CEO of Umpqua Public Transit District

“I came to fix a broken agency and we did it.”

Roseburg, OR — Ben Edtl today announced his resignation as Chief Executive Officer of Umpqua Public Transit District (UPTD), closing a chapter defined by reform, accountability, and service to Oregon taxpayers.

When Edtl was appointed Interim CEO in 2024, UPTD was on the brink of insolvency. The previous administration blew through a million-dollar reserve, became out of compliance with federal and state regulations, and struggled with internal dysfunction. Within six months, Edtl led the district to full compliance, restored fiscal discipline, and saved taxpayers more than $600,000 through smarter management of routes and vehicle maintenance.

“Taxpayers deserve a public transit system that is efficient, transparent, and accountable,” said Edtl. “When I arrived, the district was wasting resources and ignoring its obligations. Today, UPTD is lean, compliant, and better equipped to serve the people who rely on public transit in Douglas County.”

During his tenure, Edtl also focused on rebuilding trust and culture within the organization. Under his leadership, staff and operations were unified under a clear mission: serving the public responsibly and effectively.

While UPTD is fully compliant with President Trump’s executive orders eliminating DEI, the district now faces funding challenges due to Democrat Tina Kotek’s unwillingness to comply with federal immigration laws. Edtl expressed confidence that the reforms he implemented will give the district a strong foundation to endure the challenges ahead. “Politics in Salem should never be allowed to cripple local transit. I am proud to leave UPTD stronger, more resilient, and more accountable than the government I inherited it from.”

Edtl concluded: “It has been an honor to serve this community. My commitment to taxpayers and to reform does not end here. It’s time for me to move to the next battlefield.”

###