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.
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.
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.
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.
