LAGUNA NIGUEL

Efforts to build a Metrolink station for South Orange County residents may get another leader.

For several years now, Laguna Niguel and Mission Viejo have spearheaded the project, but difficulties in finding the right site, staying within budget and acquiring private land near proposed sites have slowed the process down.

Now it looks as though things are going to have to change.

After a closed session Tuesday night, Laguna Niguel council members announced that they will ask the Orange County Transportation Authority to take the lead in getting the station built.

Mayor Mimi Walters said it would be more productive and efficient for OCTA to act as the lead agency on this regional transportation project, since most of the funding is provided by or through the county agency.