ATLANTA (October 18, 2013) – Senate President Pro Tempore David Shafer (R – Duluth) announced today that Melody DeBussey will succeed Jason Fernandes as Director of the Senate Budget and Evaluation Office. DeBussey joined the Georgia State Senate staff in 2006 and currently serves as the office’s Deputy Director.
“Melody DeBussey has done excellent work as Deputy Director of the Senate Budget and Evaluation Office. I know she will bring the same skill and professionalism to the Director’s job,” said Sen. Shafer.
“Melody’s extensive background in auditing and in private industry, combined with her experience as Deputy Director, makes her an ideal successor as Director. She will lead the Budget Office in continuing to provide timely and effective counsel to Senate leadership and responding to Senators’ need for budget information. I look forward to working with her,” said Sen. Jack Hill, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
A search committee was appointed by Sen. Shafer in July after current Director Jason Fernandes tendered his resignation, effective December 1, 2013. Sen. Jack Hill served as chair of the search committee, alongside committee members Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and Sen. Shafer.
The Senate Budget and Evaluation Office was established during the 2003 legislative session in an effort to provide the Senate with an independent capacity to evaluate the State of Georgia’s annual budget. The office is committed to the production and development of accurate, thorough and non-partisan budget and policy analysis for the Georgia State Senate.
RELEASE
For Immediate Release:
October 18, 2013
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Jennifer.Yarber@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028