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What led you to a career in public service?

I wanted to have a career in government that would help people. The Iowa unclaimed property program did just that. It allowed me to reunite owners with their unclaimed property by ensuring that companies are complying with all Iowa unclaimed property laws.

What do you consider your biggest achievement while working for the state treasurer’s office?

I believe my biggest achievement while at the treasurer’s office was leading the effort and creating the national database MissingMoney.com, which assists people in finding out if they have unclaimed property. Long after I am gone, this national database will continue to exist and provide this valuable service.

What are the major issues confronting the Alcoholic Beverages Division?

Right now I am focusing on getting to know the staff and learning the industry. We are looking at ways to do more, for licensees and the public, while reducing our appropriations.

Iowa has emerging enterprises in all phases of the manufacture and distribution of alcoholic beverages. Does this provide more of a regulatory headache than the economic and entrepreneurial benefits that might be derived from them?

No. The division has worked hard to support these emerging industries, including holding public forums on both Iowa wine and Iowa micro-distilleries to foster growth. The staff has helped the beer and wine segments progress and prosper over the last decade and has been active in aiding the emerging spirits industry in recent years. The division provides assistance in the licensing process as well as guidance on applicable regulatory issues.

Do you prefer liquor, wine or beer? Have you sampled or are you a fan of local offerings in any of these categories?

I prefer beer, personally. I am looking forward to getting to know more about Iowa breweries, wineries and spirits producers and their products.

Should the division be in a position of promoting these local enterprises?

I personally, as well as the division, am always interested in fostering economic growth and development within the state of Iowa. That being said, the division is not directly involved in promoting the local alcohol industry.

Iowa Code § 15E.116 allows for money collected from the barrel tax … and the wine gallonage tax … to be used by the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) for the promotion of Iowa beer and wine. In fiscal year 2009, $158,552 was collected and deposited into the barrel tax and wine gallonage tax funds. One hundred percent of those funds are directed to the IDED. Per Iowa Code § 15E.116, the IDED consults with the Iowa Wine and Beer Promotion Board on the best means to promote wine and beer made in Iowa.

Do you foresee major changes in the operation of the division?

There will be some organizational changes to ensure the division is in compliance with all applicable sections of the government reorganization bill that was passed this session. I am also committed to transparency and accountability to the public as the agency continues to move forward.