State Rep. Tim Knopp, R-Bend, has been chosen to head the Central Oregon Builders Association (COBA).

Last month, the House Majority Leader announced that he would not seek re-election in November 2004, saying he wanted to spend more time with his wife and three young children.

”When I thought about what I might do, I couldn’t think of anything more important than continuing Kevin (Wing’s) legacy and help Central Oregonians with the American dream of home ownership,” Knopp said. ”It’s a great position where I have an opportunity to help make that happen.”

Knopp will take over the executive director position formerly held by Kevin Wing.

Wing died in late September from complications associated with type 1 diabetes.

COBA President Gretchen Palmer said the organization is thrilled to have Knopp on board.

”Tim is very experienced in areas of government,” Palmer said. ”Our area is going to be facing a lot of issues in the future that Tim can assist us in working through on a regulatory level, as well as a political level.”

Palmer said the association received between 10 and 15 applications for the position. In addition to applying for the COBA position, Knopp had previously expressed interest in becoming a Deschutes County Commissioner.

”I’d been encouraged to run for commissioner, but we just decided that this was a great opportunity,” Knopp said.

”I’m excited and pleased to bring the experience that I’ve had over the last five years in trying to bring people together.”

Knopp will officially take over the full-time position in January in addition to finishing out the year as a legislator.

As executive director, Knopp’s duties will include recommending and formulating new policies, overseeing and directing COBA programs and working with city, county and other governmental agencies to promote and implement policies as they relate to planning, land-use control and environmental regulation.

Palmer declined to comment on what Knopp’s annual salary will be.

Kristy Hessman can be reached at 541-383-0350 or khessman@bendbulletin.com.