Governor Beshear Appoints Wilder as Commissioner of the Governor’s Office for Local Development

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 12, 2008) – Gov. Steve Beshear today appointed Tony Wilder, Judge/Executive of Boyle County, as commissioner of the Governor’s Office for Local Development (GOLD).

Wilder, 51, has served as Boyle County Judge/Executive since 1993. He previously served as Boyle County Circuit Court Clerk from 1988-93.
“Judge Wilder has been an outstanding leader for the people of Boyle County,” said Gov. Beshear. “This new role as commissioner of GOLD will give him the opportunity to continue to make a difference for local communities across the commonwealth.”

Wilder received a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from Eastern Kentucky University. He lives in Danville with his wife, Sandy, and their two children.

Active in the community and his profession, Wilder is a member of the local Kiwanis and Lions Clubs and participates in the mentor program for Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Bluegrass. He has served as president of both the Kentucky County Judge/Executive Association and the Kentucky Association of Counties.

“I am honored and privileged to accept this appointment to serve Gov. Beshear and the people of the commonwealth,” said Wilder. “I’ve had a passion for public service since a very young age, particularly for local government. It is the very foundation of the American system of democracy and is closest to the people.”

Wilder assumes his new position April 16. He will replace Jim Cauley, Gov. Beshear’s chief of staff, who is currently serving as acting commissioner of GOLD.