IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 18, 2023
Maryland LCV Statement on Inauguration of Gov. Wes Moore And Initial Environmental Appointments
Annapolis, MD–Maryland LCV Executive Director Kim Coble issued this statement today about both the inauguration of Governor Wes Moore and his initial environmental appointments, including Sen. Paul Pinsky as director of the Maryland Energy Administration; Serena McIlwain as secretary of the Maryland Department of the Environment; Josh Kurtz as secretary of the Department of Natural Resources; Kevin Atticks as secretary of the Department of Agriculture; and Mayor Jake Day as secretary of Housing & Community Development.
“The inauguration of Governor Wes Moore marks a bright day for Maryland and its environment. While working closely with Governor Moore since the primary season, we at Maryland LCV have seen first-hand his deep commitment to environmental justice and moving Maryland towards a clean and equitable energy future.
“Governor Moore is a perceptive, strategic leader and has what it takes to inspire Marylanders across the political spectrum to meet the environmental challenges facing our state. The Moore-Miller Administration has a strong 100-day plan to urgently address the climate crisis and they hit the ground running with their pivotal environmental appointments.
“Ms. McIlwain, Senator Pinsky, Mr. Kurtz, and Mr. Atticks will all play key roles in the implementation of Maryland’s landmark Climate Solutions Now Act and their tremendous records of success leave them well positioned to do so. But even beyond the obvious strengths and experience of these individuals, the Administration’s appointments send an exciting message of change, and heightened perspectives, on agriculture, the Bay and its ecology, and where climate and the environment need and presumably will go.
“Ms. McIlwain has decades of experience in leading and transforming government agencies on both the national level and in California, a leading state in creatively addressing climate-changing emissions.
“Senator Pinsky has been a steadfast environmental champion and key architect of Maryland’s historic climate legislation. We will greatly miss his leadership in the Senate, of course, but his appointment bodes well for an urgent transition towards a clean energy future for Maryland.
“Like Senator Pinsky, Mr. Kurtz has been a valued longtime partner of Maryland LCV. He has a deep understanding of the issues facing Maryland’s environment and a track record of leading strategic initiatives to address environmental challenges from Chesapeake Bay Restoration to promoting broader acceptance of renewable energy.
“Mr. Atticks has extensive experience working with both traditional agriculture as well as the broader world of agricultural enhancements. His depth of understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing rural Maryland, as well as urban farming, will make him a strong leader for this Department
“Mayor Day, who won Maryland LCV’s Theodore Roosevelt Award in 2018 for his environmental leadership as mayor of Salisbury, has experience working in local government and building partnerships while also protecting Maryland’s environment and rural communities.
“Maryland LCV’s Executive Director and a number of board members have been honored to lead and serve on the transition teams for Governor Moore, Comptroller Lierman and Attorney General Brown. We are thrilled about these strong appointments and look forward to working with the new administration as it implements Maryland’s landmark Climate Solutions Now Act and moves the state toward 100% clean energy by 2035.”
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Maryland LCV uses political action and education to fight for clean water, healthy air, and a resilient climate for everyone in Maryland. Maryland LCV is known for educating lawmakers and holding them accountable for their leadership and votes on key environmental issues. Maryland LCV’s annual scorecard, along with other reports, inform voters about legislators’ records.