Landowner Dinner Panel, November 19
On November 19, we gathered for a landowner dinner and project update. We also organized a panel of leaders in communities who have welcomed an Apex wind project to discuss the economic impact of projects like Goldrush.
Moderator David Reis was raised on his family's fifth generation family farm in rural Southeast Illinois, and brings a diverse and balanced background to serving in Public Engagement with Apex Clean Energy. After graduating with degrees from Lake Land College and the University of Illinois, David went on to manage his family's farm and serve 14 years in the Illinois House of Representatives.
Don Schurr led Greater Gratiot Development, Inc. for over 30 years, driving rural economic growth and spearheading Michigan’s largest wind farm. He remains active on community boards and has earned multiple awards for his leadership in economic development.
David G. Loomis is President of Strategic Economic Research, LLC, specializing in economic impact analyses for energy projects. As a former Illinois State University professor and director of its Center for Renewable Energy, he led initiatives on renewable energy policy and economic development, earning recognition for his contributions to the field.
Dane Simpson is the Director of the Great Plains Laborers-Employers Cooperation & Education Trust (GPLECET). He is a 22 year member of Laborers Local 996, having served as President of LiUNA 996 from 2006-2019. Dane’s commitment to and experience with the trades includes roles as the Recording Secretary of the Illinois Prevailing Wage Council, Recording Secretary of the Transportation for Illinois Coalition, and Board Member of the Workforce Investment Board of Western Illinois, Power Up Illinois, Illinois Department of Transportation Safety Council, and Climate Jobs Illinois.