SCOTT COUNTY OFFICIALS MEET WITH NEW AREA DEVELOPMENT CHIEF

BENTON, Mo. -- Scott County commissioners are pleased with the Bootheel Regional Planning and Economic Development Commission's choice for its new leader.

Tyrone Thompson, the commission's new executive director, introduced himself this week to county officials and updated them on his plans.

"We think he'll bring some enthusiasm to the place," said Martin Priggel, presiding commissioner.

Thompson replaces Leon Steinbruek who retired last year.

Steinbruek had joined the commission in August 1990 as director of economic development and became executive director in January 1996.

The Bootheel board, established in 1968 to promote economic and community development in Scott, Mississippi, New Madrid, Stoddard, Pemiscot and Dunklin counties, is one of 19 metropolitan and rural regional planning commissions in Missouri and provides both assistance and advice with regional and community comprehensive development planning.

Community development programs through the Bootheel board have included infrastructure and transportation projects, job training, services for the elderly, solid waste and recycling programs, and tourism programs.

The Bootheel board also assists local governments such as counties, cities and their political subdivisions with mapping projects, writing grants and acting as administrator for grants.