Capitol Calling

Missouri pols react to Hearnes' passing

Several other Missouri politicians have released statements praising former Gov. Warren Hearnes. Hearnes died yesterday at the age of 86.

Here's a statement from Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder, who defeated Hearnes' wife in a 1992 state Senate contest:

"I deeply saddened today by the passing of Gov. Hearnes. Gov. Hearnes' legacy of public service will forever be an inspiration to us all. As a former state representative, secretary of state and chief executive, Gov. Hearnes dedicated much of his life in service to the citizens of the great State of Missouri.  He also served his nation proudly as a graduate of West Point and in the United States Army.
As a fellow Southeast Missourian, I can truly say how proud we were to call Gov. Hearnes one of us.
I send my deepest sympathies to Betty, their children and the entire Hearnes family.  Today, Missouri owes a debt of gratitude to the Hearnes family for their commitment to our state."

Here's a statement from state Treasurer Clint Zweifel:

"The passing of Gov. Warren Hearnes is a sad moment for Missouri as we lose one of our great leaders. Gov. Hearnes was an innovator throughout his career in public service, and his contributions to our state will never be forgotten by Missourians.  His commitment to mental health care, education, civil rights and the environment forever changed Missouri for the better.  In this sad moment, my family and I express our deepest sympathies with Mrs. Hearnes and her family. Gov. Hearnes will truly be missed."

And here's a statement from U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-St. Elizabeth:

“Governor Hearnes was a dedicated public official who served the people of Missouri with distinction and conviction. It is certainly a sad day for our state. Jackie and I send our thoughts prayers to Betty and the entire Hearnes family as they mourn the loss of their loved one.”

CBT: Zweifel offering unclaimed assets at fair

State Treasurer Clint Zweifel is setting up shop at the Missouri State Fair to get people to pick up unclaimed assets.

Read more about it at the Columbia Business Times blog.

Zweifel pushes for MHDC changes

Days after revealing that the head of the Missouri Housing Development Commission was questioned by federal authorities, state Treasurer Clint Zweifel held a press conference to propose new ethics guidelines for the agency.

Some the changes Zweifel proposed include:
- Barring commissioners and staff from having personal financial relationships with anyone receiving benefits from MHDC.  If such a relationship exists, the commissioner or staff member should notify the entire commission in public meeting prior to any discussion and then recuse himself or herself from any vote at a minimum.

·   -Prompting entities applying to do work for or asking to receive funds from MHDC to disclose all of their business relationships to MHDC.

·   - Banning entities applying to do work for or receiving funding from MHDC to employ a former commissioner or employee for a period of time following the termination of the commissioner's or the employee's official relationship with the agency.

       Here's a clip of Zweifel answering some questions about the proposals: