The Economic Development and Workforce Services Interim Committee met Wednesday, September 16, 2026, to review performance audits for the Governor's Office of Economic Development and World Trade Center Utah. During the session, officials addressed recommendations for improving oversight of passthrough funding and reporting requirements for international trade efforts.
Committee Business and Minutes
The meeting, which commenced at 8:36 a.m. at the Senate Building, began with the committee business of approving the minutes from the August 19, 2026, meeting. The motion to approve the previous minutes passed with a vote of 9-0-9.
Legislative Auditor General Audits
The Office of the Legislative Auditor General presented findings from performance audits concerning both the Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED) and World Trade Center Utah. Jesse Martinson, an Audit Manager for the Office of the Legislative Auditor General, introduced the presentations, which were delivered by Kyle Pepp and Nick Varney.
GOED Oversight and Funding
Kyle Pepp provided an overview of the audit regarding the Governor's Office of Economic Development. The audit focused on how the agency can improve oversight regarding budget management, industrial assistance account grants, and passthrough funding. Additionally, Nick Varney, a Senior Audit and Operations Supervisor, addressed committee questions regarding Economic Development Tax Increment Financing (EDTIF).
Agency Response to Audits
Jefferson Moss, the Commissioner of the Governor's Office of Economic Development, responded to the audit findings. Moss noted that the agency has implemented changes in response to the audit, including organizational restructuring, improvements to lines of communication, and the inclusion of a dedicated finance team. Aaron Price, the Chief Compliance Officer for GOED, added that the agency has utilized internal audits to assist with the management of the Industrial Assistance Account and other grants.
World Trade Center Utah Review
The committee also reviewed a performance audit of World Trade Center Utah. Kyle Pepp, representing the Office of the Legislative Auditor General, discussed contract deliverables and emphasized the need for World Trade Center Utah to improve performance measurement and compliance regarding reporting. Jonathan Freedman, the President and Chief Executive Officer of World Trade Center Utah, responded to the audit, stating that a clerical issue identified in the findings has been rectified. Freedman also addressed a recommendation to adjust the methodology used to calculate new trade opportunities.
Quantum Computing Initiative
The final portion of the meeting focused on the Utah Quantum Initiative. Jefferson Moss, Commissioner of GOED, delivered a presentation regarding the initiative and the governor's executive order concerning quantum computing in the state. The presentation was followed by a period of questions from committee members.
Committee Attendance
The meeting included participation from several committee members, including Sen. Ann Millner and Rep. Jon Hawkins, who served as chairs. Other members present included Sen. Karen Kwan, Sen. Michael K. McKell, Sen. Evan J. Vickers, Rep. Paul A. Cutler, Rep. Jake Fitisemanu, Rep. Leah Hansen, Rep. Sahara Hayes, Rep. Colin W. Jack, Rep. Jackie Larson, Rep. Carol S. Moss, Rep. David Shallenberger, Rep. Troy Shelley, and Rep. Jordan D. Teuscher.
