Governor Makes Appointments to Liquor Control Commission

Liz Gullett

Sep 11, 2020

This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer made two appointments to the Liquor Control Commission, which is the sole wholesaler for all distilled spirit products in the state. Additionally, it is responsible for the licensing of the manufacture and sale of all beer, wine, distilled spirits, and mixed drinks in the state. The Commission is also responsible for the enforcement of the state’s liquor laws and the collection of excise and specific taxes.

Lee Gonzales, current deputy director of legislative and external affairs for the Department of Civil Rights, has been appointed to succeed Edward Clemente, whose term ended on June 12. Mr. Gonzales is a former state representative, assistant treasurer for Genesee County, and development director for the Genesee County Board of Commissioners. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Michigan-Flint. His term commences on October 5, 2020 and expires on June 12, 2024.

The second appointment is Edward Toma, who currently serves as a state investigator and regulation agent for the Liquor Control Commission. Prior to that, he worked in the alcohol retail and restaurant industry. Mr. Toma holds a Bachelor of Integrative Studies in Mechanical Engineering and Biological Science from Oakland University. His term commences on October 5, 2020 and expires on June 12, 2024.

The appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Michigan Legislative Consultants is a bipartisan lobbying firm based in Lansing, Michigan. Our team of lobbyists and procurement specialists provide a wide range of services for some of the most respected companies in America. For more on MLC, visit www.mlcmi.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.