Steve Landes named to Growth and Opportunity Board

Del. R. Steven Landes, R-Weyers Cave, Vice Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, was appointed to the Virginia Growth and Opportunity Board by House Speaker William Howell, R-Stafford. The Board was established by House Bill 834 patroned by Majority Leader Kirk Cox, R-Colonial Heights.

“Throughout his time in the General Assembly, Delegate Landes has championed the House’s efforts to strengthen Virginia’s economy,” said Speaker Howell. “He understands small business, the need for long-term economic growth and how the private sector can work with state government to cultivate a pro-business climate. Delegate Landes will be a great asset to the GO Virginia Board.”

“The establishment of GO Virginia was a significant piece of the General Assembly’s economic development efforts this session,” noted Landes. “I look forward to serving on the GO Virginia Board and I am eager to be part of this collaborative effort to grow Virginia’s economy. I am pleased to be involved in the accountability and oversight requirements of GO Virginia to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being spent wisely.”

Delegate Landes will be joined by Delegates Chris Jones, R-Suffolk, Kirk Cox, R-Colonial Heights and Terry Kilgore, R-Gate City, on the Board. The Virginia Growth and Opportunity Board will administer grants from the Virginia Growth and Opportunity Fund for regional economic and workforce development projects. The bill provides that regional councils will be established across the Commonwealth, consisting of representatives of government and the business and education communities, and councils may submit applications for collaborative projects in their regions that enhance private-sector growth, competitiveness, and workforce development. A portion of the grant funds will be awarded on a population basis and a portion on a competitive basis, but no such grants shall be awarded absent a subsequent enactment of the General Assembly authorizing the award of grants.

Landes represents the 25th House District, which includes parts of Albemarle, Augusta, and Rockingham Counties. Landes is currently serving his eleventh term in the Virginia House of Delegates.