BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA — Delegate Gary Howell, R-Mineral, has been selected by his legislative colleagues from throughout the South to serve as the 2025-2026 Chairman of the Economic Development, Transportation, and Cultural Affairs Committee of The Council of State Governments Southern Office (CSG South). The appointment was made during CSG South’s annual Southern Legislative Conference, which took place in July in Birmingham, Alabama.
“I’m honored that my colleagues from across the South have entrusted me with this leadership role,” Delegate Howell said. “West Virginia has a powerful story to tell when it comes to economic development, workforce potential and quality of life.
“I look forward to working with leaders from throughout the region to promote smart policies that strengthen our infrastructure, expand opportunity and preserve the unique cultural heritage that makes the South such a special place.”
Delegate Howell had previously served as Vice Chairman of the Committee, and he continues to represent West Virginia as a member of the CSG South Executive Committee. He first was elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates in 2010 and currently serves as Chairman of the House Economic Development Subcommittee as well as the Joint Standing Committee on Economic Development.
About CSG South: The Council of State Governments Southern Office (CSG South) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan member organization that serves the southern governments of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.
With regionally-based leadership and perspective, and national-level resources, CSG South provides Southern government officials and staff with a variety of programs and services that facilitate regional cooperation and encourage the exchange of information. Acting as an extension of its members’ offices, the organization offers policy research and analysis, leadership development and staff training. CSG South also curates events, including its marquee annual Southern Legislative Conference, policy delegations and masterclasses, where lawmakers and government staff can build relationships and learn from one another across state lines.
