On January 8, the Business Development Authority will be under the helm of a new leader. With long time president Bill Dunn resigning at the end of December, the group was in need of someone to fill that vacancy. Although Mitch DeBoard has only been a member of the BDA for eight months, the group was familiar with his leadership abilities and elected him to take over. DeBoard is very active in the community and was recently awarded the Governor’s Service Award for volunteerism. Employed as a school bus driver for the past few years, DeBoard is also a small business owner himself. His experience with the Buffalo Creek Watershed and the Big Knob Hunting Club have showcased his management skills, making him a wise choice for the position. DeBoard will lead the group to the State Capital on January 23 to voice the needs for the people of Clay to state legislators. Anyone interested in participating in the day at the legislature should contact the BDA at 304-587-4166.