Simmons Named New Head Of Department Of Economic Development

A day after Economic Development Director Joe Driskill announced his resignation from the post, Governor Bob Holden has announced Driskill’s replacement. Former Public Service Commission Chairman Kelvin Simmons will take over as head of the Department of Economic Development. Simmons, a former Kansas City Councilman, was appointed to the PSC in May of 2000 by the late Governor Mel Carnahan. He stepped down as Chairman of the Commission last month, but he continued to serve as a commissioner. Driskill, who has served as Economic Development Director for the last ten years, is leaving to become executive director of the Missouri Technology Corporation, a private, not-for-profit entity which works to promote the competetiveness of Missouri businesses. He says he’s leaving what he calls the best job in state government, but believes it is time to pursue other career opportunities. He leaves January 1st.