Michael Vekich Named Interim Executive Director Of The Minn. Lottery

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Mark Dayton has tapped an experienced hand to lead the Minnesota Lottery as he searches for a full-time replacement.

Dayton named Michael Vekich to head up the agency on Monday. Vekich served as the agency's interim director for an eight-month stint in 2004. He currently runs his own management and accounting firm in Minneapolis.

Dayton says Vekich served the state well in his short tenure atop the lottery agency.

Vekich fills a leadership void at the state lottery after its director resigned amid questions about his work expenses. Ed Van Petten stepped down last month after the Star Tribune revealed he was reimbursed for more than $7,000 for staying at personal timeshare units.

Van Petten had held the job since 2012. The state is searching for a permanent replacement.