The Senate Transportation Committee, chaired by Senator Larry Grooms (R-Berkeley), met on February 7 to vet the appointment of SCDOT’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), Justin Powell,to serve as the Secretary of Transportation.
You will recall that the SCDOT Commission unanimously appointed Powell to the position in January, effective upon the retirement of Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall on March 31.
Commissioners and SCDOT staff were present for the hearing, which served as an opportunity for Senators to question Powell and ultimately determine if he was qualified for the position so his nomination could move forward to the full Senate.
Powell was sworn in, and Chairman Grooms opened with interview type questions for someone appointed to lead a massive agency. Other senators offered everything from praise for Powell, Secretary Hall, and the SCDOT team – to inquiries about how specific issues/projects are handled in their areas.
Powell was able to answer all of the questions thrown his way – even the tough ones.
The Committee unanimously approved Powell’s nomination, which now moves to the full Senate for approval.
View Powell’s official bio here.