Ohio Transit Worker Earned Over $200,000 in Overtime Pay

A vehicle maintenance worker at the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) in Ohio earned nearly $230,000 in overtime pay in 2025. This overtime, combined with his base salary of approximately $66,000, brought his total compensation to $352,904, making him the second highest-paid employee after the CEO.

The substantial overtime accumulation is attributed to a combination of factors, including understaffing, union rules, and the employee's dedication. Bobby Berryhill, financial secretary for the Transport Workers Union of America Local 208, stated that the worker, Keith White, has not taken any sick or vacation days in the past decade. He also receives pay for accrued unused vacation and sick time at year-end.

Berryhill described White, an 18-year employee of COTA, as an "incredible employee" and a "great resource." His remarkable work ethic and resulting earnings have sparked widespread discussion on social media about compensation practices and overtime policies within public transit agencies.

The situation highlights broader questions about public sector compensation, the impact of staffing shortages on overtime costs, and the long-term sustainability of such payment structures for employees and the transit authority.