The Office of the Ombudsman and Public Services facilitates communication between DEP, businesses, governmental entities, advocacy groups and the public. Activities include:

  • Assisting with questions and concerns.
  • Providing references for agency services.
  • Resolving agency issues and advocating solutions.
  • Public record requests processing.
  • Agency records retention compliance.

Contact

Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Office of the Ombudsman and Public Services
3900 Commonwealth Blvd., MS 49
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Public.Services@FloridaDEP.gov
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850-245-2118

Meet the Ombudsman

John Calhoun, Office of Ombudsman and Public Services

John Calhoun-Ombudsman Office of the Communications

John Calhoun serves as DEP's ombudsman and oversees the Office of Public Services. Mr. Calhoun’s prior experience with state government includes management of the Florida Customer Contact Center in the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, implementation of the Business New Hire Reporting Program and management of the Central Locate Investigations Unit for the Florida Department of Revenue.

Mr. Calhoun served in the U.S. Navy for 22 years and retired as a chief petty officer. His last assignment was as senior enlisted leader for the Naval Office of Information (NAVINFO) and Public Affairs supporting commander, Naval Forces Europe, Africa and Sixth Fleet. Additional assignments included deployments with Provincial Reconstruction Team, Baghdad (Iraq), Fifth Fleet Headquarters (Bahrain) and Commander Naval Forces Japan (CNFJ). His military awards include Navy Commendation, Army Commendation, Operation Iraqi Freedom, GWOT Expeditionary, Overseas Service, Sea Service, Meritorious Service and Battle E.