The head of Valley Metro has suddenly resigned.
On Tuesday, Valley Metro said CEO Steve Banta would be stepping down from his position at the regional transit agency, effective in January.
In a statement from an agency spokesperson, Banta called it a "difficult decision" and said he will be leaving to “pursue other and unique challenges in the transit industry.” He said his departure is “timely” because his vision for the total transit network is on its way, particularly after the passage of a voter approved funding plan.
The Arizona Republic, however, is reporting that Banta’s resignation comes amid an investigation by the newspaper into Banta’s lavish spending habits using taxpayer dollars.
According to the Republic, it had obtained records showing Banta flew first class, charged for expensive meals and even expensed meals for people who were not in attendance. Phoenix City Council member Thelda Williams told the Republic his resignation was in part due to the investigation.
"We had no idea this was going on," said Williams, who chairs the light-rail board.
Before submitting his resignation, Banta defended the spending, saying his attendance at international conferences allows Phoenix to be a player in the worldwide transit industry.
Valley Metro funds come almost entirely from tax dollars, according to the newspaper.
Valley Metro has a $349 million annual budget to operate a dial-a-ride, bus and light-rail services throughout Maricopa County, the company's website states.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
