There is a lot of chatter around City Hall these days about the Solar Plan on the March 3 ballot. The Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council has not taken a position on this issue so this post is for your information only. If a position is taken, you will have the opportunity to join the debate and have your opinion heard.
The Sustainability Committee has invited Soledad Garcia of the DWP to present at our February meeting. I think it is important for us all to get up to speed on this issue in advance of the meeting. Please note, we will not be debating ballot measure rather we are looking forward as we develop our strategies for the community greening plan and hope to partner with the DWP.
With that said, I have included links to more and I encourage you to look into this issue in greater detail. Check out the final ordinance language here: http://clkrep.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2009/09-1100-s8_ord_180376_12-3-08.pdf
If you have any suggested reading, please send me an email at sustainability@dlanc.com.
Some links of interest:
Simplified Ballot Measure Language
Final ordinance for March 3, 2009 ballot
Full Solar Plan (published by Mayor's Office)
Overview of the Solar Plan (published by Mayor's Office)
11/25/08 Villaraigosa unveils solar plan for Los Angeles (LA Times Article)
12/19/08 Analysis calls ambitious L.A. solar plan 'extremely risky' (LA Times Article)
LADWP Renewable Energy Workshop SATURDAY, JANUARY 10
In an effort to inform and seek input from Neighborhood Council members and stakeholders, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) will hold a workshop about efforts to reduce L.A.'s reliance on fossil-fuels and to increase the supply of renewable energy to 20% of the City's energy use by 2010 and 35% by 2020. The discussion will also include an overview and question and answer period regarding the Comprehensive Solar Plan, an integral part of our move to renewable energy. This is an opportunity for all Neighborhood Councils to learn more about LADWP's renewable energy programs and projects and dialogue with LADWP's CEO David Nahai and Senior Power System Managers on this timely topic.
9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
LADWP John Ferraro Building
LA/Portland/San Francisco Conference Center
111 North Hope Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Considerations for a green office space
The Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council has recently opened an administrative office in the Spring Arts Tower and the Sustainability Committee is considering contributing to the "greening" of this office.
The room is a small office for approximately two people at a time and should be adaptable into a small meeting space. This is not an outreach office per se and the Neighborhood Council aspires to have a storefront community center in the future. Therefore, all improvements should be temporary and reusable.
Our meeting on Monday is to determine if the Sustainability Committee should fund and organize this retrofit to make the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council office more sustainable. If you cannot attend, please leave your thoughts in the comments - I will consider your vote in abstentia.
Below are some considerations for the office space. I will be speaking with one of the office volunteers tomorrow to determine other needs.
Storage: We need to store Neighborhood Council files, outreach materials including a banner, and other supplies. There is a tall file cabinet in the office and two desks with drawers but additional storage space would be helpful.
Seating: There is just enough for the desks and a visitor. More seating is required to support small meetings (6 people).
Desks: Two have been donated by Russell Chan, Director, Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council.
Meeting Table: There is no meeting table.
Walls: Bare and white. It would be great to develop a system for posting outreach information for the Neighborhood Council that could easily be moved into a new space.
The room is a small office for approximately two people at a time and should be adaptable into a small meeting space. This is not an outreach office per se and the Neighborhood Council aspires to have a storefront community center in the future. Therefore, all improvements should be temporary and reusable.
Our meeting on Monday is to determine if the Sustainability Committee should fund and organize this retrofit to make the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council office more sustainable. If you cannot attend, please leave your thoughts in the comments - I will consider your vote in abstentia.
Below are some considerations for the office space. I will be speaking with one of the office volunteers tomorrow to determine other needs.
Storage: We need to store Neighborhood Council files, outreach materials including a banner, and other supplies. There is a tall file cabinet in the office and two desks with drawers but additional storage space would be helpful.
Seating: There is just enough for the desks and a visitor. More seating is required to support small meetings (6 people).
Desks: Two have been donated by Russell Chan, Director, Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council.
Meeting Table: There is no meeting table.
Walls: Bare and white. It would be great to develop a system for posting outreach information for the Neighborhood Council that could easily be moved into a new space.
12/08/08 Special Meeting: Greening the Neighborhood Council
Special Meeting for the Sustainability Committee
Monday, December 8, 2008 at 6:30PM
Ardas Cafe, 418 W. Sixth Street
1. Welcome and initial comments.
2. Public comment on non-agenda items.
3. Budget item for approval: Approve money to be used for sustainable improvements to the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council office in the Spring Arts Tower for an amount to be determined. Motion to recommend to the Board of Directors that the Sustainability Committee make sustainable improvements to the Neighborhood Council office.
4. Future agenda items.
5. Adjournment
The public is requested to fill out a “Speaker Card” to address the DLANC SUSTAINABILITY Committee on any item of the agenda prior to the Committee taking action on an item. Comments from the public on agenda items will be heard only when the respective item is being considered. Comments from the public on other matters not appearing on the agenda that is within the Committee’s subject matter jurisdiction will be heard during the public comment period. Public comment is limited to 2 minutes per speaker, unless waived by the presiding officer of the Committee. As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, or other auxiliary aids and/or services may be provided upon request. To ensure availability of services, please make your request at least 3 business days (72 hours) prior to the meeting you wish to attend by contacting Committee Board Chair Ashley Zarella at ashley.zarella@DLANC.com.
SI REQUIERE SERVICIOS DE TRADUCCION, FAVOR DE NOTIFICAR A LA OFICINA 3 dias de trabajo (72 horas) ANTES DEL EVENTO. SI NECESITA ASISTENCIA CON ESTA NOTIFICACION, POR FAVOR LLAME A NUESTRA OFICINA AL 323-224-2316.
Parking is available at Pershing Square, across the street.
Thank you, Jon Toktas of Ardas Cafe for your generosity and your space!
Monday, December 8, 2008 at 6:30PM
Ardas Cafe, 418 W. Sixth Street
1. Welcome and initial comments.
2. Public comment on non-agenda items.
3. Budget item for approval: Approve money to be used for sustainable improvements to the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council office in the Spring Arts Tower for an amount to be determined. Motion to recommend to the Board of Directors that the Sustainability Committee make sustainable improvements to the Neighborhood Council office.
4. Future agenda items.
5. Adjournment
The public is requested to fill out a “Speaker Card” to address the DLANC SUSTAINABILITY Committee on any item of the agenda prior to the Committee taking action on an item. Comments from the public on agenda items will be heard only when the respective item is being considered. Comments from the public on other matters not appearing on the agenda that is within the Committee’s subject matter jurisdiction will be heard during the public comment period. Public comment is limited to 2 minutes per speaker, unless waived by the presiding officer of the Committee. As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, or other auxiliary aids and/or services may be provided upon request. To ensure availability of services, please make your request at least 3 business days (72 hours) prior to the meeting you wish to attend by contacting Committee Board Chair Ashley Zarella at ashley.zarella@DLANC.com.
SI REQUIERE SERVICIOS DE TRADUCCION, FAVOR DE NOTIFICAR A LA OFICINA 3 dias de trabajo (72 horas) ANTES DEL EVENTO. SI NECESITA ASISTENCIA CON ESTA NOTIFICACION, POR FAVOR LLAME A NUESTRA OFICINA AL 323-224-2316.
Parking is available at Pershing Square, across the street.
Thank you, Jon Toktas of Ardas Cafe for your generosity and your space!
MEETING AGENDAS
12/01/09: December Meeting
11/04/09: November Meeting
10/06/09: October Meeting - One Year Anniversary Year in Review
09/01/09: September Meeting
08/04/09: August Meeting
07/07/09: July Meeting
06/02/09: June Meeting
05/05/09: May Meeting
04/20/09: April Meeting
03/30/09: Special Meeting: Neighborhood Council Committees & The SDAT Process
03/16/09: March Meeting
02/26/09: February Meeting (note special date and time)
01/19/09: January Meeting
12/08/08: Special Meeting: Greening the Neighborhood Council Office
11/17/08: November Meeting
11/03/08: Special Meeting: SDAT Grant Application Review and Discussion
10/20/08: October Meeting - Our first!
11/04/09: November Meeting
10/06/09: October Meeting - One Year Anniversary Year in Review
09/01/09: September Meeting
08/04/09: August Meeting
07/07/09: July Meeting
06/02/09: June Meeting
05/05/09: May Meeting
04/20/09: April Meeting
03/30/09: Special Meeting: Neighborhood Council Committees & The SDAT Process
03/16/09: March Meeting
02/26/09: February Meeting (note special date and time)
01/19/09: January Meeting
12/08/08: Special Meeting: Greening the Neighborhood Council Office
11/17/08: November Meeting
11/03/08: Special Meeting: SDAT Grant Application Review and Discussion
10/20/08: October Meeting - Our first!
Our mission
As approved by the Sustainability Committee on Monday, November 17:
The Sustainability Committee is dedicated to empowering the downtown community to create a culture of sustainability.
We will work with the community to increase accessibility to existing programs and services through outreach and public education. We will identify and create opportunities for new programming and partnerships to meet our goals for a more livable, affordable, and efficient urban center.
The Sustainability Committee is dedicated to empowering the downtown community to create a culture of sustainability.
We will work with the community to increase accessibility to existing programs and services through outreach and public education. We will identify and create opportunities for new programming and partnerships to meet our goals for a more livable, affordable, and efficient urban center.
MEETING MINUTES
01/05/10 - January Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
12/01/09 - December Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
11/03/09 - November Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
10/06/09 - October Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
09/01/09 - September Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
08/04/09 - August Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
07/07/09 - July Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
06/02/09 - June Regular Sustainability Meeting
05/05/09 - May Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
04/20/09 - April Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
03/16/09 - March Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
02/26/09 - February Special Monthly Sustainability Meeting
01/19/09 - January Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
12/08/08 - Special Meeting on Greening the Neighborhood Council
11/17/08 - November Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
11/03/08 - SDAT Grant application discussion and review
10/20/08 - First meeting
12/01/09 - December Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
11/03/09 - November Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
10/06/09 - October Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
09/01/09 - September Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
08/04/09 - August Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
07/07/09 - July Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
06/02/09 - June Regular Sustainability Meeting
05/05/09 - May Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
04/20/09 - April Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
03/16/09 - March Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
02/26/09 - February Special Monthly Sustainability Meeting
01/19/09 - January Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
12/08/08 - Special Meeting on Greening the Neighborhood Council
11/17/08 - November Regular Monthly Sustainability Meeting
11/03/08 - SDAT Grant application discussion and review
10/20/08 - First meeting
List of Potential Media Partners
Start building our list of potential local media partners by commenting on this post.
List of Potential Community Business Partners
Start building our list of potential local business partners by commenting on this post.
List of Potential Event Collaborations
Start building our list of potential event partnerships by commenting on this post.
Lists of Downtown Non-Profits (potential partners)
Start building our list of potential neighborhood non-profit partners by commenting on this post.
Meeting agenda for Monday, November 17, 2008
DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE
Committee Board Chair Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA • ashley.zarella@dlanc.com • sustainability@dlanc.com
When: Monday, November 17, 2008, 6:30-8:00pm
Where: Ardas Café (418 W. Sixth Street)
MEETING AGENDA
1. Welcome.
2. Presentation by the Mayor’s Office of Housing & Economic Development on the new Green Building program and other work being done to help the committee with our gap/needs assessment (20 minutes).
3. Public Comment on Non-agenda items including community announcements (10 minutes).
4. Review meeting minutes from the first Sustainability Committee meeting on Monday, October 20, 2008 (5 minutes). Action Item: Approve minutes of the October 20, 2008 meeting (all meeting attendees).
5. Overview of the AIA Communities by Design SDAT grant application process including an overview of the November 3, 2008 brainstorming meeting, the final document submitted, and lessons-learned (10 minutes). Action Item: Approve minutes of the November 3, 2008 meeting at Angelus Plaza (meeting participants only). Action Item: Committee to review the SDAT application and consider how this proposal can be useful in the future.
6. Discussion and consideration of the Committee Mission Statement (10 minutes). Action item: Committee to vote to approve statement. Next steps: The committee-approved mission statement will be presented to the Board of Directors at the next meeting (Tuesday, December 9, 6:30pm at the Los Angeles Theater, 615 S. Broadway).
7. Group discussions on committee goals to help the Sustainability Committee develop policies and implementation actions. Two groups to develop a list of brainstorming ideas – we will discuss these in more detail at the next meeting (20 minutes). Compile the initial list of goals as a committee for the upcoming year (2009) (5 minutes).
8. Future agenda items (2 minutes).
i. Happy Holidays – we will not be meeting in December. Our next meeting is Monday, January 19, 2009, 6:30-8:00pm at Ardas Café.
ii. Next meeting’s presenter – Erik Knutzen , co-author of The Urban Homestead, will introduce us to his perspective on more sustainable living in an urban environment. You can read about the book here: http://www.homegrownevolution.com/
iii. Review list of goals for discussion and prioritization.
iv. Committee budget to be presented for approval.
9. Adjournment
The public is requested to fill out a “Speaker Card” to address the DLANC SUSTAINABILITY Committee on any item of the agenda prior to the Committee taking action on an item. Comments from the public on agenda items will be heard only when the respective item is being considered. Comments from the public on other matters not appearing on the agenda that is within the Committee’s subject matter jurisdiction will be heard during the public comment period. Public comment is limited to 2 minutes per speaker, unless waived by the presiding officer of the Committee. As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, or other auxiliary aids and/or services may be provided upon request. To ensure availability of services, please make your request at least 3 business days (72 hours) prior to the meeting you wish to attend by contacting Committee Board Chair Ashley Zarella at ashley.zarella@DLANC.com.
SI REQUIERE SERVICIOS DE TRADUCCION, FAVOR DE NOTIFICAR A LA OFICINA 3 dias de trabajo (72 horas) ANTES DEL EVENTO. SI NECESITA ASISTENCIA CON ESTA NOTIFICACION, POR FAVOR LLAME A NUESTRA OFICINA AL 323-224-2316.
Committee Board Chair Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA • ashley.zarella@dlanc.com • sustainability@dlanc.com
When: Monday, November 17, 2008, 6:30-8:00pm
Where: Ardas Café (418 W. Sixth Street)
MEETING AGENDA
1. Welcome.
2. Presentation by the Mayor’s Office of Housing & Economic Development on the new Green Building program and other work being done to help the committee with our gap/needs assessment (20 minutes).
3. Public Comment on Non-agenda items including community announcements (10 minutes).
4. Review meeting minutes from the first Sustainability Committee meeting on Monday, October 20, 2008 (5 minutes). Action Item: Approve minutes of the October 20, 2008 meeting (all meeting attendees).
5. Overview of the AIA Communities by Design SDAT grant application process including an overview of the November 3, 2008 brainstorming meeting, the final document submitted, and lessons-learned (10 minutes). Action Item: Approve minutes of the November 3, 2008 meeting at Angelus Plaza (meeting participants only). Action Item: Committee to review the SDAT application and consider how this proposal can be useful in the future.
6. Discussion and consideration of the Committee Mission Statement (10 minutes). Action item: Committee to vote to approve statement. Next steps: The committee-approved mission statement will be presented to the Board of Directors at the next meeting (Tuesday, December 9, 6:30pm at the Los Angeles Theater, 615 S. Broadway).
7. Group discussions on committee goals to help the Sustainability Committee develop policies and implementation actions. Two groups to develop a list of brainstorming ideas – we will discuss these in more detail at the next meeting (20 minutes). Compile the initial list of goals as a committee for the upcoming year (2009) (5 minutes).
8. Future agenda items (2 minutes).
i. Happy Holidays – we will not be meeting in December. Our next meeting is Monday, January 19, 2009, 6:30-8:00pm at Ardas Café.
ii. Next meeting’s presenter – Erik Knutzen , co-author of The Urban Homestead, will introduce us to his perspective on more sustainable living in an urban environment. You can read about the book here: http://www.homegrownevolution.com/
iii. Review list of goals for discussion and prioritization.
iv. Committee budget to be presented for approval.
9. Adjournment
The public is requested to fill out a “Speaker Card” to address the DLANC SUSTAINABILITY Committee on any item of the agenda prior to the Committee taking action on an item. Comments from the public on agenda items will be heard only when the respective item is being considered. Comments from the public on other matters not appearing on the agenda that is within the Committee’s subject matter jurisdiction will be heard during the public comment period. Public comment is limited to 2 minutes per speaker, unless waived by the presiding officer of the Committee. As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. Sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, or other auxiliary aids and/or services may be provided upon request. To ensure availability of services, please make your request at least 3 business days (72 hours) prior to the meeting you wish to attend by contacting Committee Board Chair Ashley Zarella at ashley.zarella@DLANC.com.
SI REQUIERE SERVICIOS DE TRADUCCION, FAVOR DE NOTIFICAR A LA OFICINA 3 dias de trabajo (72 horas) ANTES DEL EVENTO. SI NECESITA ASISTENCIA CON ESTA NOTIFICACION, POR FAVOR LLAME A NUESTRA OFICINA AL 323-224-2316.
It's going ON! Sustainability Commitee is looking for community partners
We are progressing with the grant application. We are finding some community support letters and working on incorporating feedback from Monday's meeting into the draft. We are still pursuing some leads into partners, identifying images and maps to be included, and getting ready for Tuesday's presentation to the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council Board of Directors. A letter of support will be up for a vote as part of the Sustainability Committee report. Please feel free to contact me directly (sustainability@dlanc.com) with any images, information, letters of support or anything else you feel would help us with the grant application. I appreciate your help. The Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council Board of Directors meeting is on Tuesday, November 11 at 6:30pm in the Los Angeles Theater (615 S. Broadway) at 6th and Broadway - all are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Meeting tonight to review the SDAT Grant Application
Just a reminder that we are meeting this evening to review the SDAT Grant Application (due November 14). We will be reviewing some sections in detail and discussing our proposal objectives as a committee. All are welcome and encouraged to attend!
When: Monday, November 3, 2008, 6:30pm-8:00pm
Where: Angelus Plaza (255 South Hill Street), Conference Room 312
When: Monday, November 3, 2008, 6:30pm-8:00pm
Where: Angelus Plaza (255 South Hill Street), Conference Room 312
2008-10-31 (T.Guembes) Re: Sustainability Committee -- Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council
Hi Ashley,
We definitely would love to support what you are doing. We need more
leaders like you in our city. Let me know exactly what you need from
me and I will do my best to provide you with that information.
If there is something you'd like to get published also send that my way.
Keep up the great work.
Best,
Tony Guembes
--
Publisher / Editor
ECO-LA MAGAZINE
A publication for the Eco-Conscious Community
8350 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 200
Los Angeles, CA 90211
323.556.0629 Tel
323.556.0601 Fax
webmaster@ecolatoday.com
www.ecolatoday.com
On 10/30/08, Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA
wrote:
> Dear Tony,
>
> As you know, I am a new member of the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood
> Council and recently launched a Sustainability Committee to develop a
> community greening strategy for our neighborhood. We have an enthusiastic
> and diverse group of community members participating and we look forward
> to developing a program that compliments the great work being done at the
> city level. The intent is to enhance existing programs and services at the
> neighborhood and community level through outreach and education as we hope
> to foster a healthy urban environment for this and future generations.
>
> Although we are a new committee, we have already gotten to work on a grant
> opportunity that would provide this community with valuable resources and
> expert advice through the AIA (American Institute of Architects). The
> Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) program is a community
> assistance program that focuses on the principles of sustainability. SDATs
> bring teams of volunteer professionals (such as architects, urban
> designers, planners, hydrologists, economists, attorneys, and others) to
> work with community decision-makers and stakeholders to help them develop
> a vision and framework for a sustainable future. We believe that this
> opportunity will empower our neighborhood with valuable information and
> resources and facilitate the work being pursued by the Downtown Los
> Angeles Neighborhood Council Sustainability Committee.
>
> You can read more about the SDAT grant here: http://www.aia.org/liv_sdat
>
> I am writing because one requirement of the grant application is to
> provide letters of support from community leaders. I would like to ask you
> to partner with us as we pursue this exciting opportunity to focus on the
> environment at the community level. Your publication provides a focused
> look at work being done in Los Angeles and your partnership would help us
> fulfill some of the grant requirements for media outreach. Our deadline is
> fast approaching and we will need any letters of support by Wednesday,
> November 12. If you would like to discuss this in more detail, please let
> me know as I would be happy to meet with you to provide you with more
> information.
>
> Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you.
>
> Sincerely,
> Ashley Zarella
>
>
>
> --
> Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA
> Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Private Sector
> Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, 2008-2010
> http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com
>
We definitely would love to support what you are doing. We need more
leaders like you in our city. Let me know exactly what you need from
me and I will do my best to provide you with that information.
If there is something you'd like to get published also send that my way.
Keep up the great work.
Best,
Tony Guembes
--
Publisher / Editor
ECO-LA MAGAZINE
A publication for the Eco-Conscious Community
8350 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 200
Los Angeles, CA 90211
323.556.0629 Tel
323.556.0601 Fax
webmaster@ecolatoday.com
www.ecolatoday.com
On 10/30/08, Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA
> Dear Tony,
>
> As you know, I am a new member of the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood
> Council and recently launched a Sustainability Committee to develop a
> community greening strategy for our neighborhood. We have an enthusiastic
> and diverse group of community members participating and we look forward
> to developing a program that compliments the great work being done at the
> city level. The intent is to enhance existing programs and services at the
> neighborhood and community level through outreach and education as we hope
> to foster a healthy urban environment for this and future generations.
>
> Although we are a new committee, we have already gotten to work on a grant
> opportunity that would provide this community with valuable resources and
> expert advice through the AIA (American Institute of Architects). The
> Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) program is a community
> assistance program that focuses on the principles of sustainability. SDATs
> bring teams of volunteer professionals (such as architects, urban
> designers, planners, hydrologists, economists, attorneys, and others) to
> work with community decision-makers and stakeholders to help them develop
> a vision and framework for a sustainable future. We believe that this
> opportunity will empower our neighborhood with valuable information and
> resources and facilitate the work being pursued by the Downtown Los
> Angeles Neighborhood Council Sustainability Committee.
>
> You can read more about the SDAT grant here: http://www.aia.org/liv_sdat
>
> I am writing because one requirement of the grant application is to
> provide letters of support from community leaders. I would like to ask you
> to partner with us as we pursue this exciting opportunity to focus on the
> environment at the community level. Your publication provides a focused
> look at work being done in Los Angeles and your partnership would help us
> fulfill some of the grant requirements for media outreach. Our deadline is
> fast approaching and we will need any letters of support by Wednesday,
> November 12. If you would like to discuss this in more detail, please let
> me know as I would be happy to meet with you to provide you with more
> information.
>
> Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you.
>
> Sincerely,
> Ashley Zarella
>
>
>
> --
> Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA
> Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Private Sector
> Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, 2008-2010
> http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com
>
2008-10-31 (B.Westwater) SDAT Grant Application - Exec. Committee Mtg
Dear Brady,
Thank you for your time this evening and I really appreciate your offer to give me your thoughts about the recent history of downtown, upcoming projects and timeline, and other considerations as we prepare the Sustainability Committee application for the 2009 Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) Program.I would be happy to meet you on Sunday so we both might have more time to consider this application. I hope this information will help and I look forward to your feedback.
Per our conversation, you mentioned the following projects as good examples for the SDAT application:
* Pershing Square - the initial park plan versus the community gardens
* Quimby fees and downtown parks
* The study on green views and learning
For more information on the grant: http://www.aia.org/liv_sdat
I hope this helps. I look forward to your feedback on Sunday. Please let me know when you are available.
Thanks and Happy Halloween!
Sincerely,
AZ
--
Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA
917-974-1891
Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Private Sector
Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, 2008-2010
Sustainability Committee Blog: http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com
Thank you for your time this evening and I really appreciate your offer to give me your thoughts about the recent history of downtown, upcoming projects and timeline, and other considerations as we prepare the Sustainability Committee application for the 2009 Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) Program.I would be happy to meet you on Sunday so we both might have more time to consider this application. I hope this information will help and I look forward to your feedback.
Per our conversation, you mentioned the following projects as good examples for the SDAT application:
* Pershing Square - the initial park plan versus the community gardens
* Quimby fees and downtown parks
* The study on green views and learning
For more information on the grant: http://www.aia.org/liv_sdat
I hope this helps. I look forward to your feedback on Sunday. Please let me know when you are available.
Thanks and Happy Halloween!
Sincerely,
AZ
--
Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA
917-974-1891
Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Private Sector
Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, 2008-2010
Sustainability Committee Blog: http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com
2008-10-31 (JR.Brown) SDAT Grant Application - Exec. Committee Mtg
Dear Russ,
Thank you for your time this evening at the Neighborhood Council Executive Committee meeting. I was pleased to present the Sustainability Committee's proposal to apply for the AIA Center for Communities by Design 2009 Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) Program. We will be meeting on Monday, November 3 to review the grant application and look forward to our presentation for approval at the Board of Directors Meeting on November 11 (dlanc.com). The RFP response is due in Washington, DC by Friday, November 14.
This will be a great opportunity to work with community partners as we develop the means for a more sustainable future. The Sustainability Committee agrees that we will benefit no matter the outcome of the application because we will develop materials to use for future applications. We hope to fairly represent our neighborhood so please send me any recommendations you have about recent developments and history of downtown. If you have any suggestions over the next few days as we prepare the application, I would appreciate your feedback. We are looking for letters of support from community partners that "demonstrate community support and participation" for a "broad base of community members."
Thank you for your support. I look forward to the final presentation of the grant application on Tuesday, November 11 for the Board's approval. I will forward the agenda items to you this week per the outcome of the Sustainability Committee meeting.
Happy Halloween!
AZ
Here's more on the grant: http://www.aia.org/liv_sdat
cc: Sustainability Committee blog
--
Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA
917-974-1891
Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Private Sector
Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, 2008-2010
Sustainability Committee Blog: http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com/
Thank you for your time this evening at the Neighborhood Council Executive Committee meeting. I was pleased to present the Sustainability Committee's proposal to apply for the AIA Center for Communities by Design 2009 Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) Program. We will be meeting on Monday, November 3 to review the grant application and look forward to our presentation for approval at the Board of Directors Meeting on November 11 (dlanc.com). The RFP response is due in Washington, DC by Friday, November 14.
This will be a great opportunity to work with community partners as we develop the means for a more sustainable future. The Sustainability Committee agrees that we will benefit no matter the outcome of the application because we will develop materials to use for future applications. We hope to fairly represent our neighborhood so please send me any recommendations you have about recent developments and history of downtown. If you have any suggestions over the next few days as we prepare the application, I would appreciate your feedback. We are looking for letters of support from community partners that "demonstrate community support and participation" for a "broad base of community members."
Thank you for your support. I look forward to the final presentation of the grant application on Tuesday, November 11 for the Board's approval. I will forward the agenda items to you this week per the outcome of the Sustainability Committee meeting.
Happy Halloween!
AZ
Here's more on the grant: http://www.aia.org/liv_sdat
cc: Sustainability Committee blog
--
Ashley Zarella, LEED AP, Assoc. AIA
917-974-1891
Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Private Sector
Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, 2008-2010
Sustainability Committee Blog: http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com/
Gap Assessment & Other Programs of Interest
We will be surveying other sustainability programs in Los Angeles and identify resources that might be applicable. Please feel free to make suggestions here.
Some programs of interest mentioned at our first meeting:
Some programs of interest mentioned at our first meeting:
- LACCD
- Sustainable Works (nonprofit) in Santa Monica
- Chrysalis and Conservation Corps
- Community Partners
Mission Statement Brainstorming
Draft statement that was discussed at our first meeting:
Please feel free to propose a revised mission statement. This feedback will be incorporated for review/approval of the Mission Statement at the next regularly scheduled meeting on November 17, 2008 at 6:30pm at the Ardas Cafe.
- The Sustainability Committee is committed to providing tools to all Downtown stakeholders to make more sustainable choices where they live, work and play.
We will work with the community to develop a building-by-building strategy for Downtown Los Angeles through parternship and planning to empower stakeholders to foster a healthy, sustainable environment.
Please feel free to propose a revised mission statement. This feedback will be incorporated for review/approval of the Mission Statement at the next regularly scheduled meeting on November 17, 2008 at 6:30pm at the Ardas Cafe.
More information from the Bureau of Sanitation (Cathleen)
This information was provided by our presenter from the Bureau of Sanitation this morning:
1. Mind Your Business Publication: A Recycling Guide to Offices http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/mindyourbiz.pdf
2. Business Recycling Brochure http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/BusinessRecycling.pdf
3. Business Waste Assessments http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/2008/BWABroch2008.pdf
The Bureau (our division) provide waste audits. We help you identify how much and the type of materials being thrown away. Then we try to put you in touch with the right folks at nonprofits or commercial haulers that can accept the material from businesses. These groups are all found in the Mind Your Business document, but it is a bit dated so it is best to request an assessment. Then our folks can give personal guidance. Members interested in a waste assessment can contact Rene Spencer at Rene.Spencer@lacity.org
4. Let's Reuse LA a Reuse Guide for Businesses http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/letsreusela.pdf
5. Restaurant Food Recycling Brochure http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/FoodWaste.pdf
Here is the info you requested about the big belly .. Sorry. I couldn't find any articles about our big belly's in LA. This is about New York City's initiative. https://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/bronx/2008/07/07/2008-07-07_city_officials_of_planyc_trash_new_green.html
I had a quick correction. The restaurant composting and the residential kitchen scrap composting are a part of the Bureau. Only the Restaurant Composting programis a part of our division. Thanks for inviting us .. I am so glad to hear that recycling is important. If you would like individual program manager to come talk to your group about the other above mentioned programs, just let me know. We can try to arrange to have them come out and answer specific questions about the program.
1. Mind Your Business Publication: A Recycling Guide to Offices http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/mindyourbiz.pdf
2. Business Recycling Brochure http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/BusinessRecycling.pdf
3. Business Waste Assessments http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/2008/BWABroch2008.pdf
The Bureau (our division) provide waste audits. We help you identify how much and the type of materials being thrown away. Then we try to put you in touch with the right folks at nonprofits or commercial haulers that can accept the material from businesses. These groups are all found in the Mind Your Business document, but it is a bit dated so it is best to request an assessment. Then our folks can give personal guidance. Members interested in a waste assessment can contact Rene Spencer at Rene.Spencer@lacity.org
4. Let's Reuse LA a Reuse Guide for Businesses http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/letsreusela.pdf
5. Restaurant Food Recycling Brochure http://www.lacity.org/san/solid_resources/pdfs/FoodWaste.pdf
Here is the info you requested about the big belly .. Sorry. I couldn't find any articles about our big belly's in LA. This is about New York City's initiative. https://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/bronx/2008/07/07/2008-07-07_city_officials_of_planyc_trash_new_green.html
I had a quick correction. The restaurant composting and the residential kitchen scrap composting are a part of the Bureau. Only the Restaurant Composting programis a part of our division. Thanks for inviting us .. I am so glad to hear that recycling is important. If you would like individual program manager to come talk to your group about the other above mentioned programs, just let me know. We can try to arrange to have them come out and answer specific questions about the program.
Meeting Minutes 10/20/08 – Approved
- City of
- Multi-family residential recycling is available to all mixed-use and single use buildings downtown. Any stakeholder, in addition to the building manager/owner, can call and request the blue bin pick-up service. The Department of Sanitation will coordinate service strategies with the building owner for pick-up at a central, interior location. Trash fees could be reduced.
- For all buildings with five (5) or more units, a private hauler is required. Only the private haulers
- Recommendations included introducing more “Big Bellies” to downtown – solar-powered trash compactors meant for our streets – and public recycling bins (with education to minimize contamination).
- Commercial recycling must maintain their own contract – however, there are nonprofits that will do a trash assessment to help business figure out how to reduce waste and effectively minimize trash fees. A list of nonprofit names will be requested from the speakers and posted on http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com/
- If you have any to report for illegal dumping, please call 311 or submit a complaint through the website for Los Angeles Housing Code Enforcement Division through the Building Department or Street Services and register your complaint.
- Direct contact information for information about these or other programs, such as restaurant composting (which isn’t actually a Bureau of Sanitation program), can be found by calling 213-473-4142.
- The Sustainability Committee Mission Statement will be amended to reflect the qualities we understood as a committee this evening: it is about communities and not just buildings; we must minimize the cost of individual participation through partnership and participation; we must encourage inclusive and relevant opportunities for all stakeholders in our neighborhood and communities; and we need to survey our landscape to understand where we can enhance existing opportunities through outreach and develop programming to meet those needs not being met in Downtown Los Angeles. We should identify our objectives and establish criteria that will enable us to prioritize them. Finally, we should develop programs to support our objectives with periodic review based on the established criteria.
- It was recommended that the United Nations definition of sustainability be incorporated into the mission statement.
- The United Nations Report of the Brundtland Commission, Our Common Future:
Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
A more comprehensive list of other objectives outlined will be posted on the blog at http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com/. The committee and community are encouraged to leave their ideas as comments which will be incorporated for the committee record. This discussion will resume at the next regularly scheduled meeting (November 17, 2008 at 6:30pm at Ardas Café,
Future agenda items:
American Institute of
- Items for the regularly scheduled November 17, 2008 meeting:Presentation by Kristine Kline for the Mayor’s Office on city-wide greening initiatives; Resource compilation for gap analysis and needs assessment; List development will begin on the blog and go to the committee for review and evaluation; Objectives list will be reviewed; and Committee member introductions.
Adjournment. Thank you for all of your great ideas, participation and time this evening!
First Meeting Agenda - Monday, October 20, 6:30pm at Ardas Cafe
MEETING AGENDA - Our first meeting!
Ardas Cafe is located at 418 W6th Street across the street from Pershing Square.
SI REQUIERE SERVICIOS DE TRADUCCION, FAVOR DE NOTIFICAR A LA OFICINA 3 dias de trabajo (72 horas) ANTES DEL EVENTO. SI NECESITA ASISTENCIA CON ESTA NOTIFICACION, POR FAVOR LLAME A NUESTRA OFICINA AL 323-224-2316.
Ardas Cafe is located at 418 W6th Street across the street from Pershing Square.
- Welcome and Initial Comments.
- Public Comment on Non-agenda items
- Presentation by the City of Los Angeles Department of Sanitation on recycling resources including the 3-bin program, multi-family residential recycling, LAUSD recycling, Safe Centers, and Composting. Guest speakers: Benet Sanchez and Cathleen Chavez
- Discussion of the Committee Mission Statement. Action item: approve statement or next steps.
Draft statement: The Sustainability Committee is committed to providing tools to all Downtown stakeholders to make more sustainable choices where they live, work and play. We will work with the community to develop a building-by-building greening strategy for Downtown Los Angeles through partnership and planning to empower stakeholders foster a healthy, sustainable environment.
- Outline of objectives for the Sustainability Committee regarding the building-to-building strategy for Downtown Los Angeles, including projects such as the Huntington Hotel Proposal (Natalia Aguilar). Action item: Designate committee roles and responsibilities.
- Future agenda items.
- Adjournment.
SI REQUIERE SERVICIOS DE TRADUCCION, FAVOR DE NOTIFICAR A LA OFICINA 3 dias de trabajo (72 horas) ANTES DEL EVENTO. SI NECESITA ASISTENCIA CON ESTA NOTIFICACION, POR FAVOR LLAME A NUESTRA OFICINA AL 323-224-2316.
October 20 Meeting - Location confirmed
We have confirmed a location for our meetings:
October 20, 2008 at 6:30pm
Arda's Cafe (http://www.ardascafe.com/)
418 W 6th StreetLos Angeles CA, 90014
The cafe closes at 5:00pm but we'll be there to let you in. It is easily accessible from the Pershing Squre Red Line stop and other public transit. Click here for a map.
An agenda will be available by October 13. See you then!
October 20, 2008 at 6:30pm
Arda's Cafe (http://www.ardascafe.com/)
418 W 6th StreetLos Angeles CA, 90014
The cafe closes at 5:00pm but we'll be there to let you in. It is easily accessible from the Pershing Squre Red Line stop and other public transit. Click here for a map.
An agenda will be available by October 13. See you then!
First Meeting Announced - Location To Be Determined
Our first meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 20 at 6:30pm. We plan on meeting the Third Monday of the month thereafter. We hope you will be able to attend.
We are still looking for a location for this meeting so please let me know if you have any ideas. In order to comply with the Brown Act, we must be in a place that does not require identification to enter and is accessible to the general public. However, if you are not sure if your suggestion meets these requirements, I encourage you to still let me know and I will help make that determination.
Our first meeting will cover the mission statement of the committee and outline a general scope of work for the next few months. I am also hoping to invite someone from the Department of Public Works to discuss recycling programs downtown. A formal agenda will be issued by October 13.
If you have any questions, please let me know. Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you on Monday, October 20!
We are still looking for a location for this meeting so please let me know if you have any ideas. In order to comply with the Brown Act, we must be in a place that does not require identification to enter and is accessible to the general public. However, if you are not sure if your suggestion meets these requirements, I encourage you to still let me know and I will help make that determination.
Our first meeting will cover the mission statement of the committee and outline a general scope of work for the next few months. I am also hoping to invite someone from the Department of Public Works to discuss recycling programs downtown. A formal agenda will be issued by October 13.
If you have any questions, please let me know. Otherwise, we look forward to seeing you on Monday, October 20!
Looking for Sustainable Downtown Images
The Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council is working on a new website and we're looking for images to represent the Sustainability Committee. Please contact me if you have any you'd like to donate to the cause!
Park[ing] Day LA 2008 Block Party
Friday, September 19, 2008 was Park[ing] Day LA and the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council and community partners hosted the first-ever downtown block party to celebrate. Winston Street became a temporary urban park with Skid Row 3-on-3 Basketball, g727 interactive cityscape, live art by Crewest, live music by Little Radio and their featured artists, a community table, and a dog park by the Pussy and Pooch and their partners. You can check out image from the event here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/parkingdayla2008/sets/72157607436752181/
We thought the event was a great first attempt at a block party and many of our neighbors involved and participants agree. Gunnar Hand (Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Public Sector) and I (Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Private Sector) will be issuing a final summary of the event and hope this will encourage the success of many future events to come. Thank you to all of our sponsors and participants. We look forward to more fun and community outreach over the next 22 months of our term!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/parkingdayla2008/sets/72157607436752181/
We thought the event was a great first attempt at a block party and many of our neighbors involved and participants agree. Gunnar Hand (Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Public Sector) and I (Director, Area-Wide Work-Force, Private Sector) will be issuing a final summary of the event and hope this will encourage the success of many future events to come. Thank you to all of our sponsors and participants. We look forward to more fun and community outreach over the next 22 months of our term!
A Call for Volunteers
Please get involved with the new Sustainability Committee - now approved by the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council. Submit your qualifications and interest today!
The Sustainability Committee will work to develop a building-by-building greening strategy for Downtown Los Angeles. Through partnership and planning, we will develop the tools necessary to get the participation of all downtown stakeholders – whether residential tenants, building owners, business owners, or homeless. We will make resources available to all stakeholders to foster a healthy, sustainable neighborhood and assist our community in establishing their own sustainable goals.
A website will be maintained to facilitate the distribution of information, accessibility and compliance with the Brown Act, and engage the community in this project. The intent is to plan and design the program over the first 9-12 months. Implementation will follow with a period of review and revision before the completion of the 2008-2010 Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council term. A project summary and committee recommendations will be published with the hope that the program will continue in the hands of the community.
Local chapters of organizations such as the USGBC (United States Green Building Council), headquartered Downtown, have already expressed interest in participating and we continue to solicit interest from all stakeholders for this exciting project and opportunity for involvement. We want this committee to broadly represent and reflect the needs of our community (public and private sector employees, business owners, residents, property owners, homeless, students, and those who have an active role in an organization downtown) as we work towards a better future for our neighborhood.
The committee will meet once a month to develop the building-by-building greening strategy and there will be many opportunities for your involvement. Please contact us at with your qualifications or interest and contact information – this will become part of our project as we appoint members of the committee, volunteers for outreach and awareness, and participants in the greening of our neighborhood. You can contact me either by completing our form, posting to this blog or by emailing me directly at ashley.zarella@gmail.com.
We look forward to working with you. In the meantime, check out our initial blog and post your ideas at http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com/ Thank you Downtown!
The Sustainability Committee will work to develop a building-by-building greening strategy for Downtown Los Angeles. Through partnership and planning, we will develop the tools necessary to get the participation of all downtown stakeholders – whether residential tenants, building owners, business owners, or homeless. We will make resources available to all stakeholders to foster a healthy, sustainable neighborhood and assist our community in establishing their own sustainable goals.
A website will be maintained to facilitate the distribution of information, accessibility and compliance with the Brown Act, and engage the community in this project. The intent is to plan and design the program over the first 9-12 months. Implementation will follow with a period of review and revision before the completion of the 2008-2010 Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council term. A project summary and committee recommendations will be published with the hope that the program will continue in the hands of the community.
Local chapters of organizations such as the USGBC (United States Green Building Council), headquartered Downtown, have already expressed interest in participating and we continue to solicit interest from all stakeholders for this exciting project and opportunity for involvement. We want this committee to broadly represent and reflect the needs of our community (public and private sector employees, business owners, residents, property owners, homeless, students, and those who have an active role in an organization downtown) as we work towards a better future for our neighborhood.
The committee will meet once a month to develop the building-by-building greening strategy and there will be many opportunities for your involvement. Please contact us at with your qualifications or interest and contact information – this will become part of our project as we appoint members of the committee, volunteers for outreach and awareness, and participants in the greening of our neighborhood. You can contact me either by completing our form, posting to this blog or by emailing me directly at ashley.zarella@gmail.com.
We look forward to working with you. In the meantime, check out our initial blog and post your ideas at http://downtownsustainability.blogspot.com/ Thank you Downtown!
What do you envision for a sustainable downtown?
I have had several conversations with people from around our neighborhood about sustainability and how it might impact their daily lives. Now I'm asking for your feedback too -- what would you like to see? What can the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council do to help you meet your own sustainability goals?
One of the first items on my list: RECYCLING.
One of the first items on my list: RECYCLING.
Sustainability Committee Chairs
Downtown NOW... I was recently elected as Director, Area-Wide Work-Force Private Sector to the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council. This committee is an extension of my personal commitment to making a more sustainable future for our neighborhood through collaboration, outreach, and public participation. I hope to work with members of the community to develop tools for that we may all use to enhance not only our personal environment but that of the community at large. I believe that sustainability can be a fundamental part of how we live, work and play downtown and I hope we can lead the way for Los Angeles towards a greener future.
Recent work experience... I currently work downtown for AECOM, an architecture/engineering firm with a strong corporate commitment to sustainability - both in how it practices and what it designs. With their help, I recently became a LEED Accredited Professional which has given me an even more in-depth understanding of the steps we can take in the design and construction of better buildings. Previously, I worked as a design and marketing intern with Atelier Ten , a New York City environmental consultancy that uses tools such as daylight simultion and energy modelling to help designers understand the impact of their buildings.
Education... I graduated with honors from the Master of Architecture program at the Pratt Institute where I championed on-campus sustainability intitiatives as the Graduate Student Trustee. I have an undergraduate degree in political science from McGill University and am originally from Hartford, Connecticut. I have lived in Montreal, Toronto, Brooklyn, Rome, New Orleans and now Los Angeles where I have fallen in love with the historic buildings, natural density, and diversity of Downtown. I look forward to working with you over the next two years and encourage you to engage me as often as possible as we look to address the issues facing our neighborhood.
"Sustainability" as an idea to be explored... I believe sustainability is inherent to good design and healthy living. I believe we are all responsible and capable of contributing to the preservation and rejuvenation of our urban environment for future generations. I believe all stakeholders (see how this is defined in the Downtown Neighborhood Council bylaws) can and should be included in planning the future of our community. I believe Downtown Los Angeles is unique and this is where we can really work together to address the challenges facing our urban environment TODAY.
The Sustainability Committee has nominated two public vice chairs: Tamara Gishri and Pamela Tuttle. To be confirmed by Board of Directors January 12, 2010.
Tamara Gishri
Tamara is a special advisor on clean technology at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. Her responsibilities include forging strategic water and energy partnerships with local universities, the development of a clean technology research campus, and advocacy of federal grant opportunities. She is also the primary liaison with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Prior to working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, she worked in the Office of Mayor Villariagosa as a policy analyst on the Economic Development team, helping to create the CleanTech Los Angeles organization and establish a clean technology cluster in LA. Before returning to Los Angeles, she was a bilingual teacher and tutor to an elementary school and adult education program in Barcelona, Spain.
Tamara, also a resident of Downtown, received her Masters of Urban Planning with honors from the University of Southern California and a Bachelors of Business Administration from Emory University.
Recent work experience... I currently work downtown for AECOM, an architecture/engineering firm with a strong corporate commitment to sustainability - both in how it practices and what it designs. With their help, I recently became a LEED Accredited Professional which has given me an even more in-depth understanding of the steps we can take in the design and construction of better buildings. Previously, I worked as a design and marketing intern with Atelier Ten , a New York City environmental consultancy that uses tools such as daylight simultion and energy modelling to help designers understand the impact of their buildings.
Education... I graduated with honors from the Master of Architecture program at the Pratt Institute where I championed on-campus sustainability intitiatives as the Graduate Student Trustee. I have an undergraduate degree in political science from McGill University and am originally from Hartford, Connecticut. I have lived in Montreal, Toronto, Brooklyn, Rome, New Orleans and now Los Angeles where I have fallen in love with the historic buildings, natural density, and diversity of Downtown. I look forward to working with you over the next two years and encourage you to engage me as often as possible as we look to address the issues facing our neighborhood.
"Sustainability" as an idea to be explored... I believe sustainability is inherent to good design and healthy living. I believe we are all responsible and capable of contributing to the preservation and rejuvenation of our urban environment for future generations. I believe all stakeholders (see how this is defined in the Downtown Neighborhood Council bylaws) can and should be included in planning the future of our community. I believe Downtown Los Angeles is unique and this is where we can really work together to address the challenges facing our urban environment TODAY.
The Sustainability Committee has nominated two public vice chairs: Tamara Gishri and Pamela Tuttle. To be confirmed by Board of Directors January 12, 2010.
Tamara Gishri
Tamara is a special advisor on clean technology at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. Her responsibilities include forging strategic water and energy partnerships with local universities, the development of a clean technology research campus, and advocacy of federal grant opportunities. She is also the primary liaison with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Prior to working at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, she worked in the Office of Mayor Villariagosa as a policy analyst on the Economic Development team, helping to create the CleanTech Los Angeles organization and establish a clean technology cluster in LA. Before returning to Los Angeles, she was a bilingual teacher and tutor to an elementary school and adult education program in Barcelona, Spain.
Tamara, also a resident of Downtown, received her Masters of Urban Planning with honors from the University of Southern California and a Bachelors of Business Administration from Emory University.
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