Nebraska lawmakers confirm new economic development director

| January 23, 2020 8:05 AM

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska's new economic development director was confirmed Thursday by lawmakers who praised him for his business experience.

Senators voted 42-0 to put Tony Goins, of Lincoln, in charge of the Nebraska Department of Economic Development. Gov. Pete Ricketts appointed Goins in July.

Goins replaces Dave Rippe, who stepped down as the director to return to his home in Hastings.

Goins served as director of Branded Products for Lincoln Industries, where he led a sales team responsible for aftermarket truck and Harley Davidson parts. He was also the CEO and partner of the Capital Cigar Lounge and led a consulting firm, the Business Optimizer & Partners LLC.

Goins previously served as an executive for Cabela's World's Foremost Bank.

Goins started in his new role Oct. 7 with an annual salary of $200,000. The Legislature's vote ensures he can remain in the position.