The Valparaiso City Council has announced the appointment of members to its newly established Environmental Advisory Board. “These individuals bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in sustainability, environmental science and community engagement,” said Ellen Kapitan, City Council President and member of the Environmental Advisory Board. “We had a lot of interest, with more than 25 applicants interested in serving, so we are particularly gratified with the expertise of this board,” she said.
The newly appointed members are:
- Sara McKelvey
McKelvey brings a background in environmental policy and education, trained in ocean conservation initiatives, waste management, regenerative agriculture, native species protection and environmental stewardship.
- Malorie Medellin
Medellin is an attorney with extensive experience in environmental matters. She is currently with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management where she serves as Senior Environmental Manager and coordinates IDEM’s clean air partnership program.
- Greg Quartucci
Quartucci brings 30 years of environmental experience working on projects throughout Northwest Indiana, including Coffee Creek, Vale Park Road, NICTD Doubletrack and Gary Airport.
- Maureen Turman
Turman is an accomplished environmental health and regulatory affairs executive with more than 35 years of experience. She has served on a number of environmental boards and recently retired as director of environmental policy and sustainability from NiSource.
- Ellen Kapitan
Kapitan serves as Valparaiso City Council President and brings a background in forestry and natural resources with an emphasis on outreach and education. She currently works with the Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County.
- Naia Nikitaris
Nikitaris is a Valparaiso High School student with experience with the InVest Valpo environmental group as well as the environmental group in Culver, Indiana.
- Austin Sabec
Sabec is a Valparaiso High School student with an interest in science, the environment.
The Environmental Advisory Board was established by Ordinance 26, 2024 in October 2024 to provide guidance and recommendations to the City of Valparaiso, staff, boards, commissions and community members on environmental sustainability policies and practices. The Board will promote sustainability, enhance environmental quality, and ensure the responsible stewardship of natural resources for the benefit of current and future generations.
“The Environmental Advisory Board will help guide our city’s efforts toward a sustainable future. The board’s insight will help strike the right balance between development and conservation, empowering meaningful action on sustainability, conservation, climate action and environmental education efforts for the community,” said Kapitan.
The Environmental Advisory Board will meet monthly to discuss ongoing projects, review city policies and provide recommendations to the Mayor and City Council. For more information about the Environmental Advisory Board or upcoming meetings, please visit the City of Valparaiso's website at Valpo.us.