Ex-casino exec picked as Guinn’s chief of staff

Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2000 | 10:51 a.m.

As expected Gov. Kenny Guinn chose a former Las Vegas casino executive to succeed his outgoing chief of staff, Scott Scherer, who will move to the state Gaming Control Board.

Marybel Batjer, who most recently worked as an executive at Mirage Resorts, but also held top-level jobs in the Defense Department during the administrations of Presidents Ronald Reagan and George Bush, will take over as Guinn's chief of staff on Dec. 1.

"Marybel's extensive experience and talent make her an ideal choice for chief of staff, and I'm looking forward to having her as part of our team," Guinn said. "I have a dedicated, quality staff and I think she'll fit into a leadership role beautifully."

Batjer has extensive experience at the state government level having worked in the administration of former California Gov. Pete Wilson. She served as undersecretary for the California Business, Transportation and Housing Agency, and was a deputy director for that state's Department of Fair Employment and Housing.

"I think my experience in public service and the fact that I'm a fourth-generation Nevadan will be an asset to his administration, and I'm looking forward to taking on this new and exciting role," Batjer said.

Scherer worked as Guinn's legal counsel before becoming chief of staff in January 1999.

Scherer has been tabbed to fill the chair of Gaming Control Board Chairman Steve DuCharme, who announced his retirement last week from the three-member board that polices the casino industry.

"This is an opportunity I've been interested in since I was counsel to the board, and it will give my family a well-deserved break from the roller coaster of political campaigns and legislative sessions," Scherer said.