Contact: Cullen Werwie, 608-267-7303
Madison–Today Governor Walker announced the members who will serve on Commission on Waste, Fraud and Abuse that was created on his first day in office. In addition, the first meeting has been scheduled for tomorrow at 2 p.m. in the Governor’s conference room.
Craig Rakowski—Rakowski worked as a certified public accountant for nine years primarily dealing with housing and construction clients. He now serves as the CEO and President of James Craig Builders, which he co-founded with James Nichols. He will serve as the chairperson of the Waste, Fraud and Abuse Commission.
Ara Cherchian – Cherchian is part-owner of Northern Wire in Merrill and the former owner of Northland Stainless in Tomahawk. He is also a former Board member and Board chair of the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership.
Cindy Archer—Archer has a long history of public service, working at the Wisconsin Department of Administration, Department of Corrections, and most recently as the Director of Administrative Services of Milwaukee County. She is now currently serving as the Deputy Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Administration
Sen. Frank Lasee—Senator Lasee represents the 1st Senate District and will be serving as the Republican representative from the Senate.
Sen. Chris Larson – Senator Larson represents the 7th Senate District and will be serving as the Democratic representative from the Senate.
Rep. Samantha Kerkman – Representative Kerkman represents the 66th Assembly District and will be serving as the Republican representative from the Assembly.
Rep. Mark Pocan – Representative Pocan represents the 78th Assembly District and will be serving as the Democratic representative from the Assembly.
Media is welcome at the first meeting, where Governor Walker will task the members of the commission with their mission and each commission member will give a brief introduction. Governor Walker will not be available for questions at this event.
