Governor Morrisey’s Deputy Chief of Staff Todd Johnston will lead Cabinet Secretaries and staff to drive economic growth
CHARLESTON, WV – The new initiative on Energy, Infrastructure, and Competitiveness announced by Governor Patrick Morrisey is receiving praise from across government and industry leaders eager to engage in the Governor’s economic “Backyard Brawl.”
At a press conference yesterday, Governor Morrisey introduced the initiative and named his deputy chief of staff, Todd Johnston, as the director. Morrisey said the goal is to develop a strategic vision for making West Virginia more attractive to businesses.
“Competitiveness is key to West Virginia’s future. The West Virginia Chamber has long believed West Virginia needs to examine how well we’re able to compete in a rapidly evolving economy. We are excited to collaborate with Governor Patrick Morrisey on this important initiative to drive economic growth and attract new businesses to West Virginia.” – Steve Roberts, President, West Virginia Chamber of Commerce.
“Energy and infrastructure are critical components to manufacturing, which are important long-term investments in West Virginia’s future. As we compete with other states for economic opportunities, Governor Morrisey’s commitment to competitiveness is also great news for our economy. As the Governor and his team pursue regulatory review and reform to make us more competitive, this will benefit both existing businesses as well as new businesses as they seek the necessary permitting to make their products.” –Bill Bissett, President of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association.
“On behalf of the Contractors Association of West Virginia, I want to thank Governor Morrisey for his emphasis on energy, infrastructure, and competitiveness. With all the ongoing construction projects and those still to come throughout the Mountain State, we welcome the opportunity to reduce unnecessary red tape and accelerate permit approvals so we can get more shovels in the ground and continue to build a better West Virginia. The 500 member companies and over 22,000 employees that are the heart of CAWV stand ready to assist the Governor and his administration with this important effort.” – Jason Pizatella, Chief Executive Officer, Contractors Association of West Virginia.
“We’re excited about this new initiative and look forward to engaging with the Governor’s office and the Deputy Chief of Staff to drive economic growth and position West Virginia as a preeminent energy-producing state.” – Dr. Matthew Herridge, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Commerce.
“Our department is eager to work toward improving our infrastructure and building a first-class transportation system. Governor Morrisey and Deputy Chief of Staff Johnston’s vision is vital to helping our state grow.” – Secretary Todd Rumbaugh, West Virginia Department of Transportation.
“The WVDEP is ready to roll up our sleeves to partner with the Governor’s office to make our state government work efficiently and become more attractive for new businesses by ensuring streamlined and effective environmental regulation. We applaud this effort by Governor Morrisey and Deputy Chief of Staff Johnston.” – Secretary Harold Ward, West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP).
“I was pleased to hear Governor Morrisey’s announcement of a focus on energy and infrastructure as they relate to our competitiveness as a state. Director Johnston’s background makes him an excellent fit for this role, and I look forward to working with him on these efforts.” – House Speaker Roger Hanshaw, R-Clay.