Homans Takes Over as Spaceport Chairman

Gov. Bill Richardson has named a veteran state government administrator to take over the reins of the New Mexico Spaceport Authority.

Taxation and Revenue Secretary Rick Homans, who previously served as Spaceport Authority chairman from 2005 to 2007, will keep his current cabinet position while also resuming his previous duties, Richardson’s office said in a press release.

As chairman, Homans will head the search for a new Spaceport Authority executive director while also overseeing construction of the Spaceport.

The Spaceport’s previous director, Steve Landeene, announced his resignation last week.

In a statement released by his office, Richardson said Homans will serve as the designee of Economic Development Secretary Fred Mondragon.

“We need all the expertise we can get as we complete construction of Spaceport America, and I am tapping Secretary Homans to lead that effort,” Richardson said.

More information, check tomorrow’s Journal.