Lead tourism director appointed; job in jeopardy

Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2008 | 3:15 p.m.

CARSON CITY – Kirk Montero knows his new job as state tourism director might not last very long.

The administration of Gov. Jim Gibbons, who appointed Montero to the post on Wednesday, is studying combining the state Commission on Tourism with the state Commission on Economic Development. Such a move, which would require legislative approval, would eliminate the need for one director.

In naming Montero, 60, to the $117,000 a year job, Gibbons said he “will bring fresh ideas, leadership and a willingness to partner with others in order to draw more visitors to Nevada.”

Dan Burns, director of communications for the governor, said the final shape of a potentially combined agency hasn’t been determined. And there most likely will be a director of tourism in the final makeup.

Burns said Montero is aware of the possible consolidation. And it’s unknown if the Legislature will accept the reorganization by Gibbons.

Burns said the governor wanted to get a director of tourism appointed to help draw more visitors to the state and aid the stagnant economy.

Montero replaces Tim Maland who resigned in September. He has been station manager for US Airways at Reno International Airport and before that he was reservations manager for Reno Air.

The governor said Montero has 38 years experience in international and domestic tourism.