Since 1979, Helen Wean has had but one goal: to stop Mallard Lake landfill.
While that outcome has yet to be determined, Wean’s focus and persistence have earned her many admirers — and a few adversaries.
During a June ceremony in Frankton, Wean accepted the Frontline award from the Hoosier Environmental Council for her work with the Killbuck Concerned Citizens Association.
“Coming from them, it truly is a great honor,” said Wean. “The HEC is probably the main organization statewide to help grassroots people like the KCCA fight for justice. They are truly a clearinghouse of information and a wonderful asset to the state of Indiana.”
Through approvals, appeals, litigation and dismissal, Wean has led the charge against JM Corp. in its attempt to create Mallard Lake landfill in eastern Madison County. KCCA members have come and gone during the past 27 years, county commissioners have been replaced and boards remade, but Wean has been the one constant. She served as president of the KCCA for 10 years but plans to remain involved indefinitely.
Founded in 1983, the HEC is one of Indiana’s oldest environmental organizations.
“I haven’t heard of any environmental organization older than the KCCA, but they’ve been in existence almost as long as we have,” Wean said. “They’ve done a lot to help us organize, they have people at the state level in different organizations to help not-for-profits lobby for environmental justice.”
During their long-standing relationship, Wean said the KCCA and HEC traded ideas while helping newer groups find their footing.
Wean said the HEC was instrumental in overturning a court ruling that took away legal standing of environmental organizations.
“They are leaders in fighting for environmental justice,” Wean said. “They do their part to keep the rules and regulations at a level playing field when it comes to corporations versus citizens.”
Wean’s successor has found inspiration in her dedication.
“Helen really deserves this work from the Hoosier Environmental Council for her 10-year effort heading up the KCCA,” said Sheryl Myers, who took over as president of the organization in May. “She has single-handedly kept this going when a lot of other people had given up.”
Other Indiana environmentalists were also honored. Connie Wick of Indianapolis was presented with the Rober Klawitter Lifetime Achievement Award and Jackson County Citizens Against Rumpke Expansion was named HEC Environmental Organization of the Year.
Martin Lucas was named Max Goodwin Environmental Litigator of the Year, while Gardens Alive of Lawrenceburg was honored with the HEC Green Business Award.
“We are pleased to honor these dedicated people and groups who work so tirelessly to keep our air clean, our water safe and to protect our imperiled wild places,” said HEC President Mike Sutherlin.
Local News
Hoosier Environmental Council decorates Wean
Former KCCA president earns award for landfill fight
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