According to an email sent by the interim deputy director of Milwaukee County's Department of Transportation Tuesday, Julie Esch has announced her resignation from Milwaukee Transport Services, the operator of MCTS. 

Esch's resignation comes as the union representing MCTS bus drivers prepares to vote Wednesday on whether to authorize a strike. 

Current negotiations revolve around hours and working conditions, however money is expected to be another hurdle after MCTS revealed a $10.9 million budget deficit last month. The county board's transportation committee is slated to discuss the deficit at its meeting Wednesday.

Esch was named the interim managing director on Jan. 5 of this year after serving in several positions with the county and Wisconsin Department of Transportation. The former MCTS president and managing director, Denise Wandke, retired Jan. 1. 

MCTS Chief Administrative Officer Sandra Kellner will take over as interim managing director, according to the Milwaukee County Department of Transportation, as MCTS looks for a permanent president and CEO.