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Michigan man takes over the Idaho Transportation Department

He replaces Pam Lowe, who is suing over how she was fired.

BY CYNTHIA SEWELL - cmsewell@idahostatesman.com

Published: 11/20/09


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As the Idaho Transportation Board selected 30-year road department veteran Brian Ness to head the agency, Gov. Butch Otter lashed out at the woman Ness is replacing.

"In the end, despite her claims, Pam (Lowe) was ineffective and lost the faith and confidence of the board, my office and many in the Legislature," Otter said.

Lowe is suing the state on whistleblower and gender discrimination claims, contending she was terminated after refusing to bow to political pressure from Otter's office not to reduce a highway contract with two of his big political contributors.

Ness, who starts in January, comes to the state after a long career with the Michigan Department of Transportation.

He holds a bachelor's degree in engineering and a master's degree in public administration. His most recent role was as a regional administrator in northern Michigan.

"I am convinced Brian possesses the professional background, leadership skills and energy to make an immediate impact on transportation in Idaho," ITD board chairman Darrell Manning said.

While considering the move to Idaho, Ness said he looked into ITD and the state.

Idaho and Michigan have "similar transportation issues and similar lifestyles with the love of the land and the natural resources that you have here to enjoy," Ness said.

Ness' starting salary is $165,000 annually; Lowe, an engineer who worked at ITD for 15 years, was making $143,000.

Before January, Ness will travel to Boise for legislative meetings and briefings.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Cynthia Sewell: 377-6428

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