Laura Pizmoht and Kim Stenger have been appointed to the Laketran board of trustees by the Lake County commissioners.

The recent measure was adopted unanimously.

“Laketran serves some of our most vulnerable communities and it’s important that our board of trustees for Laketran understands their needs,” said Commissioner John Hamercheck. “Having (a board) that reflects all of our community will make for a more responsive and a better Laketran.”

The board of trustees is made up of nine members who are appointed by the commissioners for three-year terms. Meetings are broadcast live on Laketran’s YouTube page.

Pizmoht is an attorney and has previously served on Willoughby Hills City Council.

“With the increasing prices of gas and increasing challenges of the Lake County labor market, it’s more important now than ever to ensure that Laketran is meeting the transportation needs of businesses and residents of the county,” said Pizmoht, whose term runs through May 15, 2025.

Stenger is also an attorney and has been a regular rider for over 20 years.

“I am excited and honored for this opportunity to serve my community,” Stenger said, whose term runs through May 15, 2023.

“As a person with a disability who relies on Laketran every day, I hope to bring a unique perspective to the board,” she explained. “I want to make sure the organization stays strong for years to come.”

Commissioner John Plecnik added, “It’s life-affirming and inspiring to see two lawyers, two ladies, and two public servants who have overcome challenges, and not just for themselves and their families, give back to their community as a whole. I know firsthand that public service is not for the faint-hearted, especially at the local level.

“There’s a great responsibility and it’s never easy, and that’s when you’re 110 percent ready to go,” he said. “When you’re struggling through cancer or a disability, it adds that much more of a challenge, but I think it adds that much more perspective.”

Commissioner Mark Tyler echoed his colleagues, stating he believes Pizmoht and Stenger will bring great enthusiasm to the board and do great things for the community.

Laketran is a regional public transportation system offering local routes, door-to-door Dial-a-Ride, and Park-and-Ride commuter express services to connect employees and jobs between Lake County and downtown Cleveland.

The agency serves over 750,000 riders each year.

“I think it’s great to have folks that are both interested and qualified to join our board,” said Laketran CEO Ben Capelle. “It’s also wonderful to have such a great partnership with the commissioners.”