Gov. Mike Beebe has appointed Charles Robinson as state treasurer, filling a vacancy left when Martha Shoffner resigned last week after being charged with extortion.
Beebe introduced Robinson, a longtime legislative auditor, during a news conference Wednesday at the state Capitol.
Beebe thanked Robinson for agreeing to fill the remainder of the 19-month term, calling him a "perfect fit."
"I'm very grateful he's accepted this because he wasn't looking for it," Beebe said.
Robinson worked 34 years in the Division of Legislative Audit, including 28 as legislative auditor. He retired in 2007.
Robinson said he believed he can assure in a short period of time that the state the office will run "efficiently and effectively."
After being introduced, Robinson said he looked forward to starting work immediately by visiting with the treasurer's staff. He also said he doesn't want to receive a salary during his time in the role, though Beebe said officials are exploring whether that's possible since the pay is in the constitution.
Robinson will be sworn in at 1 p.m. Wednesday.
Shoffner resigned May 21, three days after she was arrested at her Newport home.
Shoffner is accused of accepting thousands in cash bribes to direct state bond business to one broker.
See Thursday's Arkansas Democrat-Gazette for more on this story.
