Ford’s final day as JTA chief is Wednesday. He is scheduled to start as CEO of Dallas Area Rapid Transit next week. The JTA is facing an investigative review by the City Council’s financial oversight review board, while Florida’s attorney general has opened a separate criminal investigation into spending during Ford’s tenure.

Diamond said Ford, who has led the authority since 2012, should explain how the deficit developed. The shortfall has led to route and service reductions as well as widespread layoffs.

“People here have a right to ask what happened,” Diamond said, arguing that Ford was in charge while the agency’s financial problems were unfolding.

The state investigation is examining several areas of spending, including massage expenses, murals, hotel stays and the JTA’s tuition reimbursement policy. No finding of wrongdoing was reported. Diamond also questioned why the authority continued advancing its NAVI system while carrying debt related to its routine operations, calling the situation “criminal.”

At a recent oversight committee meeting, members learned that JTA board members had been largely kept from financial projections for years, according to the report. Diamond said he believes the council needs to hear directly from Ford and has invited him to appear voluntarily.

If Ford declines, Diamond said, the council would consider using its subpoena power. He said Ford’s move to Texas would not prevent Jacksonville from seeking his testimony, adding that the council could pursue enforcement in circuit court.

Ford’s contract provides that he will continue receiving salary and benefits through Wednesday. During his leadership, JTA developed express busways and launched a self-driving shuttle service; his departure comes as the authority faces scrutiny over its finances and decisions affecting transit service and employees.