Nebraska Economic Development director resigns over COVID grant concerns

The Nebraska Economic Development director, Tony Goins, has resigned from his position after concerns were raised over the distribution of COVID-19 relief grants. Goins' resignation comes after it was discovered that he had awarded grants to his own family members and friends. The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) had received $1.1 billion in federal funds to distribute to small businesses affected by the pandemic. However, it was found that Goins had awarded grants to his sister's beauty salon, his brother's bar, and a friend's steakhouse. The revelation sparked outrage among lawmakers and the public, with many calling for Goins' resignation. In a statement, Goins said that he was stepping down to "avoid any distraction from the important work of the DED." Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts accepted Goins' resignation and thanked him for his service. Ricketts also announced that he had appointed a new director, Richard Baier, to lead the DED. The incident highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the distribution of COVID-19 relief funds. As the pandemic continues to impact businesses and individuals across the country, it is crucial that relief funds are distributed fairly and without bias. In Nebraska, the DED has since implemented new measures to ensure that grant applications are reviewed by a committee and that there is no conflict of interest in the awarding of grants. The department has also pledged to be more transparent in its distribution of relief funds. The resignation of Tony Goins serves as a reminder that those in positions of power must act with integrity and prioritize the needs of the community over personal gain. As the country continues to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, it is essential that leaders uphold the highest standards of ethics and accountability.