Rock Rapids, Iowa — There have been some changes to the Lyon County Riverboat Foundation Board of Directors.
Foundation officials tell us that Doon representative Jerry Keizer, who has been serving as the foundation’s president has completed his service on the board after two three-year terms. Keizer had replaced Eugene Schroeder as Doon representative in 2015. They tell us Keizer served the Lyon County Riverboat Foundation as president for the last four years.
Foundation officials tell us several major changes happened under his leadership. The board found ways to lower the unpaid balance on long-term multi-cycle grants (from $2.4 million to $650,000). Keizer lead the way in changing the frequency that competitive grants were distributed from twice a year to once a year, allowing better control and estimate of funding available for grants. He was also at the helm during the changing of distribution amounts on competitive grants from unlimited to a maximum of $250,000 per grant, and for changing the Grants Awards Ceremony, making it more personal and interesting, allowing grant winners to explain their projects publicly.
Aaron Kelderman of Doon will succeed Keizer as Doon’s representative on the LCRF Board.
Meanwhile, officer elections were held recently, and Randy Waagmeester, Rock Rapids attorney and LCRF representative from the Rock Rapids area was elected to succeed Keizer as president for the upcoming year.
Waagmeester has served on the board for several months. Other officers elected included Vice President Marlys Conaway of George, Secretary Shawn Dreesen of Little Rock, and Treasurer Alicia Ver Meer of Larchwood. These members will serve a one-year term and also serve as the Executive Committee as IRGC interprets as the Governance Council. Board meetings are open to the public.
