By Andi Anderson
Governor Mike Braun has taken a bold step by appointing nine new members to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) board.
He did not retain any of the previous members. Braun aims to bring new energy and oversight to the board, which he said had not been as active as it should be.
The IEDC, which plays a major role in state economic initiatives, has been under scrutiny. Earlier this year, Braun ordered an independent forensic audit of the agency. This followed allegations of ethics violations and conflicts of interest involving organizations connected to the IEDC, such as Elevate Ventures.
The new board members represent a range of industries and regions across Indiana. They include:
- Billie Dragoo, founder and CEO of RepuCare
- David Fagan, union leader from International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150
- Greg Gibson, businessman with expertise in real estate, trucking, waste management, and hospitality
- John Gregg, former speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives
- Chris King, executive vice president of Runnebohm Construction
- Don Lamb, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture
- Gus Olympidis, owner of Family Express Convenience Stores
- George Thomas, CEO of Viaggio Pontoon Boats
- Richard Waterfield, chairman and CEO of Waterfield Enterprises
These appointments reflect Braun’s intention to ensure the IEDC is more transparent, engaged, and effective. He noted that interest in serving on the board has been high. The board is meant to have 15 members, so more appointments are expected.
This change marks a new chapter for the IEDC as it works to support Indiana’s economy and rebuild public trust.
Photo Credit: istock-ekkasit919
Categories: Indiana, Government & Policy