Beebe says 5 agency heads to keep jobs

Attorney General Mike Beebe, the governor-elect, announced Friday that five current department heads will keep their jobs when he takes office Jan. 9.

"These five men and women have a strong record of leadership in their respective areas and they will be an important part of our team to move the state forward," Beebe said in a news release.

He continues to meet with more agency and department heads and will continue to announce appointments in weeks to come, the release said.

The appointments are: John Ahlen, president of the Arkansas Science and Technology Authority since 1984. The authority uses direct investments or tax incentives to promote a broad range of job-creating activities to manufacturers.

Claire Bailey, director of the Department of Information Systems since 2004. In that role, she leads employees who are responsible for the state computer network.

Jessica Caldwell, executive director of the Arkansas Transitional Employment Board since 2004. She previously worked on Gov. Mike Huckabee's staff. The board oversees the administration of the state's welfare program.

Richard Davies, head of the Parks and Tourism department since 1990. He has worked for the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism for 33 years.

Randy Young, executive director of the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission since 1985. The duty of the commission is to manage and protect Arkansas water and land resources for the health, safety and economic benefit of the state.

This article was published 12/11/2006