Isgar gets USDA appointment

State Sen. Jim Isgar (D-Hesperus) has been appointed the USDA's state director of rural development, Isgar told Mile High Politics on Tuesday.

With his appointment, a vacancy committee will be convened to fill the seat for the last year of Isgar's term (term limits prevent Isgar from running for re-election in 2010). Isgar said he'll likely start his new Lakewood-based job around July 20, and resign his senate seat around that time.

Isgar said as state director of rural development, he'll work to publicize federal grants and programs available for rural Coloradans.

"It's a good fit for me with my background, and it's just a real opportunity with the new administration coming in -- these opportunities don't come along that often," Isgar said. "I'm going to miss being in the Senate -- that's been a great opportunity also -- but this opportunity is available now. I'm just honored to be considered for the appointment."