Gov. Kristi Noem's GOED commissioner out after less than a year

Chris Schilken requests withdraw of 'appointment papers'

(LinkedIn)

PIERRE — The Governor’s Office of Economic Development will be without a commissioner for the rest of South Dakota’s 2024 lawmaking session.

Chris Schilken told The Dakota Scout Friday he is stepping down as head of the state’s primary economic development agency and will return to a subordinate role within the office.

Appointed GOED Commissioner in June 2023, Schilken previously served as both the Deputy Commissioner and the Director of Business Development.

“We launched the most successful workforce campaign in South Dakota history, broke the record for lowest state unemployment rate, brought in billions of dollars in new businesses, and helped South Dakota’s existing companies continue to thrive,” the Watertown man said, referring to Gov. Kristi Noem’s Freedom Works Here campaign. “After consideration with my family, I am returning to a role that better allows me to spend time with my wife and sons while still helping build the strongest economy in America.”

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