By Erica Peterson/KPR
Frankfort, KY – The current head of Kentucky's Abandoned Mine Land's Program has been promoted to Natural Resources Commissioner. Steve Hohmann will fill the position left vacant by the dismissal of Carl Campbell last year. The appointment has been well-received by both the environmental community and the coal industry. Kentucky Coal Association President Bill Bissett says he's had good experiences working with Hohmann, and would expect him to bring a balance similar to what Campbell brought to the position.
"I would expect Mr. Hohmann to have a very similar open door policy with both the energy and environmental communities. He's a very respected person who we have a working relationship with and would expect that to continue in this new role."
Tom FitzGerald of the Kentucky Resources Council also said Hohmann is a good choice to lead the department. Hohmann will oversee the divisions of forestry, abandoned mine lands, mine reclamation, oil and gas and mine safety, among others.