DARKE COUNTY – After several months of searching for a new Economic Development Director for the county, the Community Improvement Corporation of Darke County (CIC) named Greenville Mayor Mike Bowers as its choice.

Bowers will be replacing former director Marc Saluk who left the position in February to take a similar job in Hunterdon County, New Jersey.

“I appreciate the confidence that the folks and the president of council for the City of Greenville have had in me for the past eight years, and I look forward to continue working with, and for, the city in my new position,” said Bowers.

“A good portion of my time has been spent on economic development over the years as Mayor,” he explained. “I look to continue that, but now at the county level. We have a great manufacturing base across the county and I look to continue to help with their growth and expansion possibilities. It’s an exciting time to continue building working relationships across the county.”

Bowers admitted declining the position initially because he said a lot of positive things were going on in Greenville.

“There’s a lot of positive momentum in the city and our downtown,” he said.

He ultimately decided to accept the position saying it was a good opportunity for himself and his family.

Bowers will begin working the position full time beginning Monday, August 29.

Prior to becoming Mayor, Bowers was a closing agent for a local title company and senior buyer for the municipal materials division of the Treaty Company. He graduated from Bowling Green State University with a degree in business. He is a lifelong resident of Greenville where he resides with his wife, Kim. He has two children, both of whom have graduated from Greenville Senior High School.

Bowers will resign his remaining term as Mayor. The Darke County Republican Central Committee will appoint a replacement.