Obie to leave house, appointed by Shumlin to Department of Buildings and General Services

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I’m sort of in shock over this– Obie’s been my rep for most of the time I’ve lived in Vermont.  He’s one of my favorite members of the house– whenever I’d send him questions, he’d respond with depth and detail, even if the answer wasn’t what I wanted to hear.  I’ve got an immense amount of respect for the man, and figured he’d be my rep forever.  Here’s the message from Shumlin:

…Rep. Michael Obuchowski to serve as Commissioner of the Department of Buildings and General Services. The department employs more than 350 people and oversees construction, renovation, maintenance and other services — including security — related to state buildings and grounds. The department also manages the state’s vehicle fleet and coordinates worker compensation claims.

I’ve no idea who Shumlin plans to appoint to replace him, but, just… wow.  I’m kind of stunned.

7 thoughts on “Obie to leave house, appointed by Shumlin to Department of Buildings and General Services”

  1. Here’s what I wrote before you beat me to it:


    Long time Windham-4 Representative (and former Speaker of the House) Michael Obuchowski will be the Commissioner of the Department of Buildings and General Services in the new administration. From the transition team press release:

    The department employs more than 350 people and oversees construction, renovation, maintenance and other services — including security — related to state buildings and grounds. The department also manages the state’s vehicle fleet and coordinates worker compensation claims.

    “I can’t imagine a better fit for this job,” said Gov.Elect Shumlin. “Michael’s extensive legislative background and direct experience with state buildings and grounds will enable him to hit the ground running in this position.”

    Obuchowski is a great guy and has done a lot for the state of Vermont. While it’s hard to imagine a House Democratic caucus without him, it’s great to see him recognized with an appointment (although I was hoping the rumors about a potential appointment to Treasurer would bear out). It ain’t sexy, but it’s a nuts-and-bolts position, and Obie does nuts-and-bolts very well

  2. Mike Obuchowski has been an fine example of what is meant by “citizen-legislator.”  While I hardly know the guy personally, I have observed him for many years, and whether you agree with him politically or not, he has been serious-minded, hard-working, more than competent and trusted. The Vermont Legislature could use more people who have those characteristics.  Congratulations, Obie, and thank you for your service.

  3. A Shumlin facebook post from less than an hour ago:

    Today I appointed Michael O’Neil as Director of Vermont Emergency Management – currently Chief Engineer and Emergency Management Director for the city of Burlington’s Fire Department. Mike’s experience heading up emergency services in Burlington has prepared him for any emergency that could adversely impact the lives of Vermonters.

  4. no further comment is necessary. It was rumored that the BGS commissioner would be a name that would step a few people back a little.  Another great call by Shumlin and Crew…

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