NNDA director leaving

The executive director of the Northern Nevada Development Authority is resigning, and plans to start a renewable energy company.

Ron Weisinger said his job at the economic development corporation has helped him gain the background to explore wind, solar and biodiesel energy as an entrepreneur, he said.

Rob Hooper, secretary of the authority's board of directors, will serve as interim executive director.

Weisinger said he will step down in the next few weeks. He started as executive director in May 2002. He previously worked as an economic development consultant.

Rafael Cappucci, authority board president, said NNDA recently decided to restructure and focus on renewable energy, manufacturing and new markets.

This business plan did not include Weisinger as executive director, he said.

The authority's new plan will "help us realign our position with the emerging economy," he said.

Cappucci said he could not discuss Weisinger's job performance.

Teresa Shouppe, authority board vice president, said everyone at the authority recognizes the "tremendous" work Weisinger had done. But the authority decided to reorganize, she said, and "unfortunately, uncomfortable change comes with that."

Michael Skaggs, executive director of the Nevada Commission on Economic Development, said local development companies have had to put a lot of pressure on their directors to perform in the slow economy. The commission watches development authorities through their quarterly reports, he said.

NNDA helps attract, retain and expand business in Carson City, Douglas, Lyon and Storey counties. It is funded by state grants, fundraisers and membership dues. Its state grants are regulated by the Nevada Commission on Economic Development. The authority got about $135,000 this year from the state. This made up about 40 percent of its budget.

- Contact reporter Dave Frank at dfrank@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1212.