Gov. Ivey appoints Jo Bonner as new Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Chairman

Jo Bonner

By

Jo Bonner, a former U.S. House Representative, was appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey Wednesday as the new chairman of the Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council, according to a state press release.

"The Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council is tasked with restoring and protecting one of our state's greatest natural resources, our Gulf," said Gov. Ivey. "Its work is important not only because God has called us to be good stewards of the planet He has given us, but also because the major economic impact that the Gulf plays in our state is through tourism, fishing, shipping and other ways."

"I can think of no one better than Jo Bonner to serve as my designee to lead its efforts," Gov Ivey added. "Jo has a long history of being a tireless advocate for Alabama's coast. I am excited to see the great things he accomplishes in this new endeavor."

In his new role, Bonner will take the lead on protecting and restoring Alabama's gulf coast. One of his priorities will be ensuring that the compensation given to the state after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in April 2010 is used to reverse "wildlife damage, workforce development, infrastructure improvements and tourism promotion, among other efforts," according to the statement. More than 130 million gallons of oil spilled into the Gulf Coast causing extensive damage to the environment and associated industries.

Bonner served Alabama's 1st District from 2003 until 2013, which included a stint as Chairmen of the House Ethics Committee from Jan. 2011 until Jan. 2013. He resigned from Congress in Aug. 2013 to take a job with the University of Alabama.

"I am honored to be chosen by Governor Ivey to serve as her designated chairman of the Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council," said Bonner. "Much of my life and career has been focused on serving the people of Alabama - including a significant role in crafting the RESTORE Act when I was in Congress. I look forward to ensuring that the Council's efforts are effective, efficient and transparent. My focus will be on restoring our coast and promoting all our coast has to offer."

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.