NNDA director leaving

Ron Weisinger says he will resign as executive director of the Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA) to start a renewable energy company.

His job at the regional 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 of the development authority in May 2002.

He had previously worked as an economic development consultant.

Rafael Cappucci, authority board president, said the Northern Nevada Development Authority 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 reviews.

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."

The authority has two employees. Cappucci said he doesn't know if the board will have to make other staff changes.

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.

The Northern Nevada Development Authority 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.