FRANKFORT, KY - (September 7, 2004) - Governor Ernie Fletcher and Transportation Cabinet Secretary Maxwell C. Bailey have appointed Bill Nighbert to serve as Commissioner for the Department of Intergovernmental Programs. The Department of Intergovernmental Programs, formerly the Division of Rural and Municipal Aid, is responsible for managing the Rural and Secondary Roads Program and the Transportation Enhancement Program.

"I would like to express my sincerest appreciation to Governor Fletcher and Secretary Bailey for the opportunity to serve the Commonwealth as Commissioner of Intergovernmental Programs," said Nighbert. "I am extremely excited and looking forward to being part of such an outstanding team with Secretary Bailey leading the Transportation Cabinet."

Prior to joining the Transportation Cabinet, Nighbert served on behalf of Governor Fletcher as Deputy Commissioner for the Governor's Office for Local Government (GOLD). Before moving to state government, Nighbert served as mayor for the City of Williamsburg for three terms. He also served as Whitley County treasurer and Williamsburg City administrator for four years. In addition, he served as district chairman of the Cumberland Valley Area Development District, former past president of the Kentucky League of Cities (KLC), former board member of the Kentucky Appalachian Commission (KAC) and he is a 2002 Inductee of the Williamsburg High School Hall of Fame. Commissioner Nighbert currently resides in Williamsburg.

"Bill Nighbert has a long history of effectiveness and getting things done," stated Governor Fletcher. "I know Bill's long history working with local governments will make him a tremendous asset to the Transportation Cabinet and I look forward to working with him and Secretary Bailey towards making our state a better place for every Kentuckian."

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