WASHINGTON, D.C. -   Stephen A. Walz, a recognized leader on environmental policy and energy, has been named the Director of Environmental Programs for the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, the Council’s executive director, Chuck Bean, announced today.

Walz served as the Director of Virginia’s Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy during the administration of Gov. Timothy Kaine and was the former governor’s energy policy advisor.  He currently serves as the Director of Regional Energy Planning for the Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC.)  He also is widely recognized for his work on water quality, air quality, climate, waste disposal and open space issues.

“I am very happy to welcome Steve Walz, a respected environmental leader and manager, to the Council,” Bean said. ”His knowledge and experience will help us as we work to achieve the environmental goals that are part of Region Forward, our vision to make the metropolitan area the most prosperous, accessible, livable and sustainable region in the country.”

During his 31 year tenure with the Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy, Walz led the development of the Virginia Energy Plan.  He also represented Virginia on the Council’s Climate, Energy and Environment Policy Committee.

Walz has addressed complex environmental and regulatory challenges during his career which required a combination of technical and communication skills.  His work often required advising and briefing elected officials at the local, state and federal levels.

Stuart Freudberg, who served as the Council’s Environmental Programs Director for 26 years, recently was named Senior Director, Environment, Public Safety and Health, with oversight responsibilities for those departments.  “Steve Walz has distinguished himself as a thoughtful, patient expert on a wide range of environmental topics.  I look forward to having him on my team,” Freudberg said.

Walz will officially join the Council of Governments on March 3.