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The Dakota Scout

Noem appoints Watertown man to lead Governor's Office of Economic Development

Schilken promoted from within the office

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The Dakota Scout
Jun 01, 2023
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Gov. Kristi Noem appointed Chris Schilken of Watertown on Thursday to serve as her commissioner for the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

Schilken replaces Steve Westra, a former Sioux Falls lawmaker, who had accepted the post shortly after Noem won her first term. Westra’s departure was announced in April.

For Schilken, it’s a promotion: He had been serving as GOED’s deputy commissioner and director of business development. The commissioner serves on the governor’s cabinet.

Big changes coming for Outdoor Campus

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