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Dunn leaves Environmental Protection Division to head up OPB

by Governor's office


Posted on Jul 12, 2023 at 0:00 AM


On June 30, Gov. Brian Kemp announced his appointment of Richard “Rick” Dunn as director of the Office of Planning and Budget (OPB), effective July 1. Dunn moves from his previous position as director of the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Environmental Protection Division (EPD).

“I’m grateful for Rick’s continued willingness to serve his fellow Georgians as he returns to OPB, where he made valued contributions as the deputy director prior to his current role,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “He is an accomplished public servant who has made state government more efficient and more responsive to the needs of those we’re honored to serve, and I look forward to his continued impact.”

The DNR Board voted on June 30 at a called meeting to appoint the governor’s Executive Counsel David Dove as interim director of EPD, also effective July 1. The governor approved this interim appointment. Dove will continue in his role as executive counsel.

The governor also announced the appointment of Russel Carlson as Commissioner of the Department of Community Health (DCH), effective Aug. 1. Carlson currently serves as DCH Chief Health Policy Officer.

In addition to the above announcements, Gov. Kemp approved the DNR Board’s vote to appoint Walter Rabon as interim commissioner of DNR, effective July 1. Rabon will take on these additional duties while maintaining his current responsibilities as DNR Deputy Commissioner.

"Walter has been a dedicated member of the DNR team for many years," Gov. Kemp said. "I know he will work hard to uphold the agency’s important mission of protecting Georgia’s natural wonders, and I appreciate his continued service.”


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