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FRANCIS X. LYONS NAMED AS EPA REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR IN MIDWEST
Release Date: 04/20/99
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FOR RELEASE: TUESDAY, APRIL 20, 1999
FRANCIS X. LYONS NAMED AS EPA REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR IN MIDWEST
EPA Administrator Carol M. Browner today announced the appointment of Francis X. Lyons as the Agency’s Administrator for Region 5, headquartered in Chicago. Lyons is an attorney with over 10 years experience in federal and state government, principally on environmental matters.
"Frank Lyons’ experience in environmental enforcement matters at the national and state level makes him exceptionally qualified to be a regional administrator for the Agency," said Browner. "He will do an excellent job of helping to protect the public health and environment of the citizens of the midwest."
The Region 5 Administrator manages EPA regional programs in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, including the Great Lakes National Program and cooperative efforts with state, city and county governments, industry, and public and private organizations.
Lyons has been an attorney in the Department of Justice Environmental Enforcement Section since October 1994. He served as lead counsel on numerous complex air and Superfund cases and as a member of litigation teams dealing with other environmental disputes. He received an EPA award as a member of a Superfund Enforcement Team of the Year and Department of Justice awards for sustained superior performance of duty and outstanding service.
From October 1988 to September 1994, Lyons served as an Illinois Assistant Attorney General. For four years, he represented various state agencies in state and federal district court litigation, and for two years he handled environmental enforcement cases in state courts and before the state Pollution Control Board.
"Frank Lyons is an excellent choice to become the Regional Administrator for the EPA. Frank’s experience at the Department of Justice in environmental law gives him the background necessary to succeed in this position," said Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill). "I look forward to working with him."
"Francis Lyons has a demonstrated record of commitment to public health and the environment. He is a consensus builder, who will work together with diverse interest groups and government agencies," said Rep. William Lipinski (D-Ill).
In 1996, Lyons was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army Reserve with the rank of Captain. During his 13 years as an officer and in different leadership positions, he received many honors, including twice having been awarded both the Army’s Commendation Medal and Achievement Medal.
Lyons, 37, is a native of Chicago. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota in 1984 and a law degree from Loyola University in Chicago in 1988.
David Ullrich, acting Regional Administrator since June 1997, reverts to his previous position as Deputy Regional Administrator. These appointments are effective on May 3, 1999.
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