Previous Story
Benavente is new DLNR chief
The Senate Committee on Executive Appointments and Government Investigation approved Friday during their session on Rota the nomination of former representative Anthony T. Benavente as secretary of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources.
Benavente succeeds the late Richard Seman in the position.
Prior to Benavente’s appointment by Gov. Ralph DLG Torres last May 22, 2017, former House speaker Eli Cabrera served as acting DLNR secretary since early April. Cabrera now returns to his post as director of the Division of Parks and Recreation.
In an earlier interview, Benavente said he is seeking to cooperate with the people in the department “in terms of making sure that our federal fund programs are in line with what we are doing.”
“My goal is to make sure we do our best. I’ll make sure our resources are well managed to provide for our people and for the safety and betterment of our people,” said Benavente, acknowledging the many local and federal issues that the department needs to focus on.
Acting Corrections commissioner Vincent Attao’s nomination was also brought up during the Senate session on Rota. However, it was not confirmed as of publication what the Senate’s action was in his case.
