Holden taps Bootheel banker for roads panel

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Gov. Bob Holden on Monday nominated Duane Michie, a Bootheel banker and river port overseer, as the newest member of the state Highways and Transportation Commission.

Michie, 62, of Hayti, Mo., replaces commissioner Edward Douglas of Chillicothe, Mo., whose term expired Saturday. Both are Republicans, a requirement to maintain the political balance on the commission.

Michie -- pronounced Mickey -- is the third person Holden has appointed to the commission in a little over a month.

"Duane is a consensus builder who is very knowledgeable about the state's transportation system and its needs," Holden said. "He is a respected leader who realizes that Missouri's transportation system is a key to our state's economic success."

Senate President Pro Tem Peter Kinder, R-Cape Girar-deau, has encouraged Holden to appoint Michie to the commission. Michie's selection is subject to approval by the state Senate.

Michie has been chairman of the Pemiscot County Port Authority for more than a decade. He also is chief executive officer of First State Bank and Trust Co. in Caruthersville.