Walker cabinet: Huebsch out, Neitzel in at Administration

MADISON Gov. Scott Walker announced a number of changes in the ranks of his top administrators Monday, including the replacement of state Department of Administration Secretary Mike Huebsch with former Madison Gas & Electric executive Scott Neitzel.

Neitzel, who abruptly stepped down as senior vice president of the utility company late last week, will lead the powerful agency, which is responsible for the states two-year budget plan, introduced by Walker in early February.

Huebsch is moving to the Public Service Commission, where hell serve as one of three commissioners appointed by the governor. Ellen Nowak, who is currently a commissioner, will replace Phil Montgomery as chairperson, starting March 1.

Bob Seitz, previously a spokesman for Gogebic Taconite, has been named executive assistant for the Public Service Commission.

Neither Seitz nor Bill Williams, the mining companys president, could be reached for comment Monday.

As we work to reform government, I am confident we have selected great partners to join our efforts to build a government that is more effective, more efficient, and more accountable to the public, Walker said in a statement announcing the changes. Your leadership and professionalism will be invaluable as we work to build a more free and prosperous state.

Neitzel will make $128,026 as DOA secretary; the executive position he left at MGE paid him $493,996 in salary and bonus. Huebschs salary at the Public Service Commission will be $129,000.

Walker also announced two appointments in agencies that he wants to merge in his 2015-17 budget. Tricia Braun, was named chief operating officer of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., replacing Ryan Murray, who left the job in November.

Murray now works for The Firm consulting group.

And Brian Schimming, vice chairman of the state Republican Party, was named deputy executive director and chief operating officer of the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority.

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Walker cabinet: Huebsch out, Neitzel in at Administration