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Environment DEC


From the December 2005 issue

Denise M. Sheehan Confirmed as DEC Commissioner

Commissioner Sheehan and Governor PatakiCommissioner Sheehan has
worked closely with Governor
Pataki on many important
environmental issues

On November 29, 2005, Governor Pataki's September appointment of Denise M. Sheehan to serve as Commissioner of DEC was confirmed by the New York State Senate. Her appointment is effective immediately. She had been serving as Acting Commissioner since February 3, 2005 when her predecessor, Erin Crotty, left the position. Prior to that time, she held the position of Executive Deputy Commissioner at DEC.

Heartfelt Appreciation

Expressing her gratitude at her confirmation, Ms. Sheehan remarked, "I would like to thank Governor Pataki for the honor of nominating me for this position and the State Senate for their support. My heartfelt appreciation is extended to all DEC employees as we continue to work together to create a healthier environment and stronger communities for the benefit of this generation, and future generations of New Yorkers."

History with DEC

The Commissioner joined DEC in April 1998 as a Special Assistant in the Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act Office, where she helped coordinate the successful implementation of the Bond Act's many programs. In March 2001, she was appointed Assistant Commissioner for Administration and was responsible for the divisions of Operations, Management and Budget, Information Services, Environmental Permits and Public Affairs & Education.

Before joining DEC, Commissioner Sheehan was employed at the New York State Division of the Budget for nearly 11 years. In that capacity, she also worked on legislation to establish the Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act and the Environmental Protection Fund.