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The Republican Party of Minnesota has turned to businessman and accountant Mike Vekich to help clean up its financial problems.

The party's acting chairwoman Kelly Fenton announced today that Vekich, who is CEO of Vekich Associates, will provide voluntary assistance until Dec. 31. That's when the party's state central committee is scheduled to elect a new chair.

In a news release, Fenton said Vekich may enlist others in his evaluation of party finances, if necessary.

"Mike is a turnaround expert who has guided a number of organizations through difficult transitions," Fenton said. "We're looking to him to provide immediate advice on the financial, organizational structure, political and public relations operations in light of the Party's debt problem and the recent leadership change."

Vekich previously served as chair of the Board of Trustees of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. Gov. Tim Pawlenty hired Vekich as acting director of the Minnesota State Lottery and appointed him to chair Minnesota's 21st Century Tax Reform Commission.

The news release added that Vekich will not run for party chair on Dec. 31.

Vekich will advise state GOP on finances

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