Board of Directors

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Governance and Board Leadership

Missouri River Historical Development, Inc. (MRHD) is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors that provides fiduciary oversight, strategic guidance, and accountability for the distribution of gaming revenues for the benefit of Woodbury County.

The Board consists of 13 to 26 voting directors who are residents of Woodbury County, Iowa. Directors are selected to represent a broad cross-section of the community and bring experience from areas such as business, education, tourism, public safety, human services, rural communities, and civic leadership. The Board maintains balanced representation, including gender balance, to ensure diverse perspectives in decision-making

Voting directors serve three-year terms beginning January 1 following their election and may serve up to two consecutive terms. All voting directors must complete a background investigation and obtain a gaming license from the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission before voting. Elected public officials and individuals affiliated with a gaming operator contracted with MRHD are not eligible to serve as voting directors.

The Board acts in a fiduciary capacity, overseeing MRHD’s policies, finances, and grantmaking activities. Directors are responsible for ensuring compliance with Iowa law, gaming regulations, and MRHD’s governing documents while acting in the best interests of the organization and the public it serves. The Board meets monthly, with an annual meeting held each November. Directors serve on standing and ad-hoc committees that support governance, grant review, financial oversight, and strategic initiatives. Meetings may be held in person or electronically.

Board service is voluntary and uncompensated, though reasonable expenses incurred on behalf of the organization may be reimbursed. The Board may approve compensation for Executive Officers. All directors are required to adhere to MRHD’s Conflict of Interest and Attendance policies, and are held to high ethical standards. The Sioux City Council and the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors each appoint one elected official to serve as a non-voting, ex-officio director, supporting coordination with local government while preserving independent governance.