Governor Chet Culver has named Charlie Krogmeier to head the Iowa Department of Human Services. He has advised Culver for many years in various jobs, most recently as the governor’s chief of staff since January. State Senator Amanda Ragan, a Democrat from Mason City, told the Des Moines Register,
“I think the agency is just like any other that has struggles because of budgetary issues and Charlie’s been very involved in watching where the money’s going to go,” said Ragan, who is vice chairwoman of the budget subcommittee that oversees DHS. “I think he’s very conscious of the needs of the population who needs the services.”
A press release with background information on Krogmeier is after the jump. The Iowa Senate will consider confirming him during the 2010 legislative session.
Senate Republicans blocked Culver’s appointment of Gene Gessow as DHS head earlier this month and rejected appeals from the governor and Senate Democrats to reconsider.
Yesterday Culver appointed to new positions two other nominees whom Senate Republicans refused to confirm.
Gov. Culver: Appoints Krogmeier as director of human services
4/30/2009Contact:
Phil Roeder, Governor’s Office
515-281-0173
phil.roeder@iowa.govLong-Time Public Servant to Lead State’s Largest Agency
DES MOINES – Governor Chet Culver today appointed a veteran public servant, Charles Krogmeier, as the new director of the Iowa Department of Human Services.
“Charlie Krogmeier is a veteran of service to Iowa who has been an invaluable, trusted advisor to Lieutenant Governor Judge and me,” said Governor Culver. “His experience, and commitment to Iowa, makes him an ideal choice to lead this department during such an important time in our state. I am proud he is a part of my team and confident in the leadership he brings to my Administration.”
Krogmeier is currently Chief of Staff in the Governor’s Office, with three decades of experience in state and local government. His other state government experience includes director of the Department of Management (2007-2009), director of the Culver/Judge Transition office following the 2006 election, First Deputy Secretary of State (2004-2007), Deputy Attorney General for the State of Iowa (1989-1997), and General Counsel to the Iowa Department of Transportation (1986-1989).
Krogmeier served two terms as an elected member of the Lee County Board of Supervisors (1979-1986), and was in private legal practice in both Polk and Lee County. He is a graduate of the University of Iowa and the Drake University Law School.
The Department of Human Services is state government’s largest agency, with 5,700 employees, and provides a wide range of important services to Iowans in areas such as health care, nutrition, child care and more.
Krogmeier’s appointment is effective today, and will be placed before the Senate for confirmation in 2010.