Local officials and staff possess sustainability expertise that
is a valuable resource, and is helpful for others interested in
undertaking similar programs. Share your story with others
through the Sustainable Communities Learning Network.
Have a great sustainability story your local agency has been a
part of? Suggest a case story. Working
through a difficult project and need some feedback?
Join the conversation on
LinkedIn. Done a ton legwork to get a project
off the ground that you think others would benefit from?
Volunteer to speak on a webinar.
Have a better idea? Let us know.
The Learning Network is a platform for you to share your
expertise and help others learn from your experience. Email
an Institute for Local Government staff member so we can help
you share your story.
The Learning Network is a place to talk about what is happening in the sustainability field and share new resources and upcoming events. View newly released resources, upcoming events and information to help incorporate environmentally, socially, healthy and economically sustainable practices into your work.
California, like the rest of the nation, has been weathering a severe economic downturn that has resulted in near-record levels of unemployment, widespread home foreclosures and lost income. Local costs for safety-net programs and other essential services have grown while state and federal revenues have fallen, leading to chronic budget shortfalls and fiscal distress. This whitepaper looks at two very different California cities’ examples of pioneering efforts to chart a more sustainable economic future.
Vacant and abandoned lots in a community can attract crime, create health hazards or lead to depressed property values. City-owned lots are one area where local government can directly reduce neighborhood blight at a minimal cost. The City of Long Beach has a fairly simple, creative and easily replicated use for vacant city lots that also offers added benefits for sustainability, job training, community collaboration and access to healthy foods.
One of the “indispensable competencies” for local government
leaders is the ability to communicate through stories, according
to Frank Benest, former city manager of Palo Alto and consultant
to local governments. Benest uses storytelling as a tool to help
local officials with strategic decision-making, because stories
provide a compelling way to convey who you are and where you are
going.
The LinkedInTM group is a place for local government sustainability practitioners to connect, exchange information, discuss best practices, and seek feedback on project ideas directly from their peers.
