Governor Appoints Interim Chair of Gaming Commission

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BOSTON — Today, Governor Maura Healey appointed Commissioner Jordan Maynard as Interim Chair of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, following the announcement of Cathy Judd-Stein's retirement. 
 
The administration is in the process of searching for a permanent chair. Maynard was appointed as a Commissioner by Governor Charlie Baker, then-Attorney General Healey, and Treasurer Deb Goldberg in 2022. 
 
"Since joining the Commission, Jordan Maynard has proven to be a leader in this space. He has worked with people across the gaming industry and has helped oversee Massachusetts gaming regulations. We are grateful for his service as he takes over as Interim Chair and look forward to working with him more closely," said Governor Maura Healey. "In the meantime, we continue our search for a permanent chair." 
 
"We are thankful for Jordan's leadership as he steps into this new role as Interim Chair of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission," said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. "His track record speaks for itself and we are grateful for his continued service."  
 
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission was created after "An Act Establishing Expanded Gaming in the Commonwealth" was signed into law on November 22, 2011. The Commission is a full-time, five-member independent body that is the single licensing and regulatory body of the casino, horse racing, and sports wagering industries in Massachusetts. 
 
The Commission consists of 5 commissioners, 1 appointed by the governor, 1 appointed by the attorney general (who must have experience in criminal investigations and law enforcement), 1 appointed by the State Treasurer (who must be proficient in corporate finance and securities), and 2 appointed by a majority vote of the same three constitutional officers. The Governor designates the Chair of the Commission. 
 
Jordan Maynard was appointed as a Commissioner to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission in July 2022 and began his five-year term on August 1, 2022. Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker, Attorney General Maura Healey, and Treasurer Deborah Goldberg appointed Maynard to the Commissioner spot slated for an individual with experience in the legal and policy issues related to gaming. 
 
"I'm honored that Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll have placed their trust in me to serve the Gaming Commission in this interim role," said Jordan Maynard. "I was grateful to be appointed Commissioner by Governor Baker, then-Attorney General Healey and Treasurer Goldberg several years ago, and have been deeply appreciative of the opportunity to serve the people of Massachusetts and support this important industry." 
 
Maynard previously served as Governor Baker's Chief Secretary and Director of Boards and Commissions for the Office of the Governor from February 2019 through July 2022. In that capacity, he oversaw appointments for over 800 state boards and commissions and recruited and placed senior officials across the administration. 
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Dalton Board of Health Nominates New Members

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — The Board of Health last week couldn't decide between two board candidates so flipped a coin to appoint Dr. Patrick Carsell.
 
The board needed a fifth member, with the vote between Carsell and Rachel Branch. Branch was appointed as the alternate. 
 
Members couldn't decide which would be the best fit — a resident with some experience advocating on public health issues, or a dentist with a background in health care. 
 
Branch has deep roots in the Berkshires and ran for mayor in North Adams before moving to Dalton a few years ago. While living in Connecticut, she worked to stop an asphalt plant, and has attended zoning board meetings regarding power plants and how to clean them up. Branch hosts "Solutions Rising" on Dalton Community Television, focusing on local issues and vulnerable communities.
 
Carsell has a dental practice in Dalton and ran for Select Board last year. He has spoken out on many local concerns, such as the police station and other town infrastructure.
 
"I'm very impressed with both candidates. Pat is a resident of the town, and got a medical degree, and Rachel Branch has very strong credentials in fighting for things like pollution into a neighborhood," said James "Jimbo" Doucette. "For that reason, I think I'm voting for Rachel." 
 
Fellow member Matthew Bryan agreed it as a "tough choice."
 
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