Gov. Maura Healey named  Jordan Maynard as Interim Chair of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, Thursday, elevating the former Baker aide to lead the board during a search for a new permanent chair.

Maynard’s appointment comes following the announcement of Chair Cathy Judd-Stein’s retirement.

Maynard was appointed as a Commissioner by former Gov. Charlie Baker, then-Attorney General Healey, and Treasurer Deb Goldberg in 2022.

“Since joining the Commission, Jordan Maynard has proven to be a leader in this space. He has worked with people across the gaming industry and has helped oversee Massachusetts gaming regulations. We are grateful for his service as he takes over as Interim Chair and look forward to working with him more closely,” said Healey.  “In the meantime, we continue our search for a permanent chair.”

Maynard previously served as Governor Baker’s Chief Secretary and Director of Boards and Commissions for the Office of the Governor  from February 2019 through July 2022.

Mortgage rates climb again

The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate climbed back to nearly 7% this week, pushing up borrowing costs for home shoppers with the spring homebuying season underway.

The average rate on a 30-year mortgage rose to 6.87% from 6.74% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 6.42%. The average rate is now just below where it was two weeks ago.

Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with homeowners refinancing their home loans, also rose this week, pushing the average rate to 6.21% from 6.16% last week. A year ago it averaged 5.68%, Freddie Mac said.

“After decreasing for a couple of weeks, mortgage rates are once again on the upswing,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist.