FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  April 12, 2004
CONTACT: Jill Johnson, (561) 681-6714
                  Deena Wells, (850) 245-2112

 

DEP Appoints Kevin Neal as Southeast Environmental Chief

PALM BEACH – Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Colleen M. Castille and Deputy Secretary Allan F. Bedwell today announced the appointment of Kevin Neal as DEP's new Director of District Management for Southeast Florida.

“Kevin brings a host of governmental and management experience to the Department,” said Allan Bedwell, who oversees DEP’s statewide regulatory programs. “His comprehensive knowledge of state government and dedication to public service provide a strong foundation for further protecting south Florida’s environmental and economic interests.”

Neal is the Deputy Executive Director for the Public Service Commission, where he oversees the Commission staff and serves as a liaison to governments and the Florida Legislature. He has considerable experience in state government, working as a legislative analyst for the Agency for Health Care Administration and, later, as a policy coordinator for the Department of Labor. Before his appointment as Deputy Commissioner for the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Neal served as Legislative Affairs Director to Governor Jeb Bush.

“I am looking forward to furthering Florida’s environmental priorities and, above all, working with our state and federal partners to continue restoring America’s Everglades,” said Neal. “Commonsense environmental management and smart growth of one of Florida’s most populated areas will protect our quality of life and strengthen our economy.”

Neal’s public commitment is evident in a history of volunteerism and community involvement. He volunteers for Habitat for Humanity and the Conversation Partner Program, which matches native speakers of English with non-native speakers to promote mutual learning and understanding.

Neal received a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Florida A&M University and holds a law degree from Florida State University. He begins his new position as DEP's Southeast District Director on May 17, 2004.

The Department’s Southeast District regulatory staff conducts environmental permitting, compliance and enforcement activities throughout a six county area spanning the east coast from Dade to St. Lucie County and including Okeechobee County.

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