Sebelius names Joe Harkins to Kansas Corporation Commission

A dedicated Kansan who has served the people of this state for 40 years as a cabinet secretary, educator and expert in issues including health care, energy and water policy is Governor Kathleen Sebelius’ latest appointment to the Kansas Corporation Commission.

Joe Harkins, who currently serves as director of the Kansas Energy Office at the KCC, is Sebelius’ nominee to replace Commissioner Robert Krehbiel, whose term has expired.

“Joe is someone who has committed his life to public service, both by being a public servant himself and by training the next generation of public administrators.  He has a wealth of knowledge on the subjects handled by the commission, as well as a vision for where this state can go in terms of renewable energy.  Joe also possesses a leadership style that will help bring people together to achieve Kansas’ energy goals,” said Sebelius.

The KCC regulates the energy, transportation and telecommunications industries within Kansas, including public utilities, common carriers, motor carriers and oil and gas producers.

Throughout his career, Harkins has served in a variety of capacities in the health care and public sectors, working for Democratic and Republican governors alike. At various points in his career Harkins served as secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, director of the State Water Office and director of the University of Kansas Public Management Center.

After his retirement from KU in 2003, Sebelius asked Harkins to return to state government and serve as acting director of the Kansas Water Office Harkins. In this role, he reinvigorated the state’s water planning process and tackled critical water-related issues including protecting and restoring the state watersheds to improve water quality and developing regional water supply strategies throughout Kansas.

After serving as a special assistant to Sebelius for the past several years, Harkins was this year named by the Governor to serve as director of the Kansas Energy Office at the KCC.  While at the KCC Harkins has worked to promote renewable energy and energy efficiency, work that he’ll continue as a commissioner.

Harkins holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas, as well as a master’s degree in public administration from KU.

Harkins and his wife, Judy, have three grown children and currently live in Lawrence.

Harkins’ appointment is for four years and is subject to Senate confirmation.

# # #