Texas Governor Greg Abbott has tapped four new appointees to lend their expertise to the Business Advisory Council of the Texas Division of Emergency Management. Aaron Negherbon from McKinney and Patricia Rigney from Edinburg have been appointed to terms concluding on February 1, 2025. Meanwhile, Matthew Powell of Cedar Park and Colonel Michael Matthews (Ret.) of New Braunfels will see their terms come to an end on February 1, 2026, and February 1, 2027, respectively, a press release from the Governor's office confirms.
This council is tasked with advising on how best to help businesses recuperate following disasters, their input seen as vital in shaping policies and strategies for economic rebound post-catastrophe, the press release outlines that Negherbon, a CEO of the non-profits Troops Direct and Cops Direct, has a background in finance and marketing from the University of Southern California, while Rigney, a practicing attorney and city attorney for Mission, TX, boasts almost two decades in law with multiple service roles including an assistant United States attorney.
Incorporating a wealth of experience across various sectors and responsibilities, the council is heeding perspectives from both public service and private enterprise, according to the Governor’s office. Powell, a former mayor and an active member in Texas economic circles, and Matthews, a seasoned veteran in several high-level positions post-military service, including a tenure with Boeing, complement the council's diverse skill set.
The anticipated contribution of the newly appointed members is considerable, with Governor Abbott's office highlighting the extensive backgrounds of the council members in their dedication to both the public welfare and the resilience of local economies in the face of adversity, Rigney’s contribution extends beyond legal adeptness to involvement in community boards and associations, while Powell's extensive background in municipal leadership and economic development will help steer the council’s objectives, meanwhile, Matthews adds to the mix his teaching experience and community leadership focused on supporting military families.
