MADISON – Governor Jim Doyle today announced an Office of Recovery and Reinvestment has been created to quickly move federal stimulus funds to create jobs in Wisconsin.  The office is preparing to get federal money out the door for worthy and worthwhile projects that immediately jumpstart job creation, maintain jobs and invest in long-term economic growth in Wisconsin after the federal government finalizes a stimulus package.

“Many Wisconsin workers have seen their hours cut or lost their jobs as a direct result of this national economic crisis,” Governor Doyle said.  “Through this new office, we will work to turn federal stimulus money into paychecks as efficiently and quickly as possible.  This stimulus package not only helps us maintain or create jobs here in the state, it also provides us with an opportunity to take on larger, longer-range projects that invest in our state’s assets and set a new direction for a  stronger economy and a greener, more energy independent future for Wisconsin.”

Governor Doyle also announced that he appointed Madison Gas and Electric Chairman, President and CEO Gary J. Wolter to head the new office.  Wolter has agreed to serve on a voluntary basis while he retains his duties with MGE.  “The Office of Recovery and Reinvestment provides us with a tremendous opportunity to help rebuild the state and put people to work in a way that will get the economy moving again,” Wolter said.

Although the details of the federal stimulus package are still in development, the Office of Recovery and Reinvestment will continue efforts to explore avenues to deploy funds as well as work with local governments, schools, non-profits and the business community on possible projects that will create jobs and provide long-term investment in Wisconsin.

In order to maximize Wisconsin’s ability to use the federal funds, the office will also begin identifying obstacles to move funds quickly and work to remove barriers while still maintaining environmental and quality standards.

Governor Doyle said he appreciated the hard work of the Obama Administration and the leadership of U.S. Representative Dave Obey in developing the stimulus package and that he sees the Office of Recovery and Reinvestment as a means for Wisconsin to effectively implement the federal legislation once it is finalized.

University of Wisconsin-Madison Associate Vice Chancellor of Facilities, Planning and Management Alan Fish will also be joining the Office of Recovery and Reinvestment.  Other key infrastructure experts from state agencies will be added to staff the office, as well.

The Office of Recovery and Reinvestment webpage, www.recovery.wisconsin.gov, has information about the new office and information on current drafts of the federal stimulus package.  The Office of Recovery and Reinvestment encourages suggestions for projects that create jobs and fit the federal criteria through this new website.

To view the Executive Order creating the office, please visit: http://www.wisgov.state.wi.us/journal_media_detail.asp?locid=19&prid=3913.