Michie knows area's transportation needs

Gov. Bob Holden has forwarded to the Missouri Senate for its confirmation the name of Caruthersville banker Duane Michie to a seat on the prestigious Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission.

The nomination is a good one that should win easy Senate confirmation.

Michie is a respected Bootheel banker and civic leader who has a history of promoting transportation in our state.

Long active with the Pemiscot County Port Authority, Michie has worked for development of that promising facility and other Missouri ports.

He has worked hard for economic development in a part of the state sorely in need of it.

This is why Michie has the support of leading Democrats and Republicans alike.

Senate President Pro Tem Peter Kinder of Cape Girardeau was among those recommending Michie to the governor months ago.

Michie goes on the commission at one of its most troubled times ever.

With other members, and with the governor and lawmakers alike, he will have his hands full as efforts are made to pass a measure increasing funding for the Missouri Department of Transportation.

It is good to see chosen a leading citizen from Southeast Missouri.

Since Mark Preyer of Kennett resigned nearly six years ago to make a run for office, we haven't had a person from this part of the state on the commission.

This isn't to say that Michie will represent just this region, as all commissioners are charged with taking a broad, statewide view of Missouri's transportation needs..

Still, it doesn't hurt from time to time to have someone more intimately familiar with the needs of our region on this all-important commission.

Michie is such a man.