Arizona’s mine inspector has resigned. Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs has appointed a replacement to serve out the term.
Arizona is the only state that elects a mine inspector. It’s actually one of the highest elected offices in the state, although probably the least well-known statewide positions.
Since 2021, the mine inspector has been Republican Paul Marsh.
But Hobbs announced on Friday that Marsh resigned on August 15, something the office did not reveal until she announced his replacement nearly a month later.
Marsh did not respond to requests for comment about his resignation.
As of Monday, the mine inspector’s website still lists Marsh as the mine inspector.
Steve Trussell, the executive director of the Arizona Rock Products Association & Arizona Mining Association, said Marsh moved to Texas and got a new job a few weeks ago.
Hobbs appointed longtime mineral enthusiast and former mining engineer Walter Lesley “Les” Presmyk to the post.
Presmyk said his office will focus on safely securing abandoned mines, preserving mineral specimens and training miners to ensure they’re operating safely.
“So, anybody that works for a mine understands that when they go to work they will have a safe working environment, and that at the end of their shift, they get to go home,” Presmyk said.
Presmyk will serve through 2026 and says he plans to run for another four-year term after that.
“Inspector Presmyk has the experience, knowledge, and tenacity to ensure Arizona’s miners are safe, and that our mines are operating in accordance with the law. I look forward to seeing him thrive in this new role,” Hobbs said in a statement.
Presmyk holds a degree in mining engineering from the College of Mines at University of Arizona. He worked as a mining engineer for the Salt River Project for 30 years.
He was also a Gilbert Town Council member for 12 years.
Presmyk said his favorite mineral is wulfenite, also the Arizona state mineral — with azurite and malachite as close seconds.
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