21st Annual NCR Job Fair

"You are cordially invited to join us for the

21st Annual NCR Job Fair

 Tuesday, March 6 RSVP at www.ncrhokies.org

7054 Haycock RoadFalls Church, VA 22043

Looking for a job or just a new opportunity? Join the NCR Hokies at the 21st Annual National Capital Region Job Fair and access 60+ companies hiring for all levels. FREE for all job applicants.

RSVP deadline is 12 PM on Tuesday, March 6. To register, please go to www.ncrhokies.org. If you have questions, contact Scott Pence at scott.pence@ncrhokies.org."

Research Assistant, Metropolitan Housing and Communities Policy Center, Washington, D.C.

The Urban Institute's Metropolitan Housing and Communities Center is looking for a Research Assistant to work with senior researchers collecting and analyzing data for research projects on a range of issues including housing and community development, economic development and performance management.
 

Responsibilities:
Responsibilities will consist of managing data, writing computer programs for data processing and analysis, and producing tables, charts, and maps for reports. Other responsibilities may include producing literature reviews, conducting field work, and writing summaries of research procedures and results.
 

Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree required. Mathematics, Statistics, Economics, Public Policy, Urban Studies, Sociology, or other social science field preferred.
 

Candidate must demonstrate solid mathematical ability, analytic thinking, and research skills. Experience with qualitative or quantitative analysis, statistical packages (SAS, SPSS, Stata), mapping software (ArcGIS), database development, or computer programming languages a plus.
Requires an organized, highly motivated, creative, and self-confident individual who can work effectively on multiple projects at once.
 

Should have a strong interest in one or more of the following topics: community building and neighborhood revitalization, low-income housing, affordable homeownership, discrimination and segregation, economic development, or performance management.

The Urban Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/H. We welcome diversity in the workplace and encourage all minorities and women to apply.

Overview:

Research Assistant jobs-urban.icims.com 

The Urban Institute's Metropolitan Housing and Communities Center is looking for a Research Assistant to work with senior researchers collecting and analyzing data for research projects on a range of issues including housing...

Open positions, RENAISSANCE PLANNING GROUP, Orlando, FL and Charlottesville and Arlington, VA

Renaissance Planning Group looking to hire two new employees in one of our primary offices: Orlando and Tampa, FL and Charlottesville and Arlington, VA.

Renaissance has an informal recruiting process. Any interested candidate is welcomed to call with questions or send a letter of interest and resume to:

Alan Steinbeck, AICP
Project Manager
RENAISSANCE PLANNING GROUP
ph. 813.254.7741 x204 c. 813.546.0788
asteinbeck@citiesthatwork.com
www.citiesthatwork.com
400 North Ashley Drive, Suite 1010
Tampa, Florida 33602

Community Planner II Position Number: 60081219 Department: Dept of Commerce Wake County, North Carolina

Closing Date/Time: Thu. 03/08/12

This position is located in the Program Development and Grants Management Section of the NC Community Development Grant (CDBG) program. This position is responsible for on-site and desktop monitoring of grantees, receiving CDBG funds for compliance with federal and state rules, regulations and the approved program requirements. This position provides technical assistance to grantees, provides administrative services and reviews/responds to correspondence. Additionally, this position will resolve programs identified during the on-site and desk-top monitoring and process complaints from program beneficiaries. This position assists grantees with financial and regulatory requirements of the CDBG program related to the grant and must work with a wide range of people including local government staff and officials, consultants, non-profit staff and for-profit developers. This position will review and apply federal and state policies and regulations. Excellent writing and verbal skills are required.

Description of Work governmentjobs.com

Graduate students in urban affairs and planning conduct study for Capital Bikeshare

by Barbara Micale
 
NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION, Feb. 28, 2012 – Eleven graduate students in an Environmental Planning Studio taught by Ralph Buehler, assistant professor, Department of Urban Affairs and Planning,Virginia Tech National Capital Region, have completed a study of 340 short-term users of Capital Bikeshare, currently the largest bike sharing service in the United States.

The study is intended to provide Capital Bikeshare with a better understanding of short-term users who purchase either a 24-hour or five-day pass and to help the bike sharing service better focus its efforts to increase ridership and improve functionality.

Read more

March 30: 8th Mid-Atlantic Regional Planning Roundtable on Water, Energy and Transportation Intergovernmental Planning

Real World Challenges: Water, Energy and Transportation Intergovernmental Planning to Solve Complex Problems

March 30, 2012 – Arlington, Virginia

For: Planners and Elected and Appointed Officials, Business Persons and Citizens

Co-sponsored by: Regional and Intergovernmental Planning Division, American Planning Association (APA) and APA Chapters participating Mid-Atlantic Regional Councils and the Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions (VAPDC)

Hosted by: Northern Virginia Regional Commission (NVRC) and the Virginia Tech Department of Urban Affairs – National Capital Region

Location: Virginia Tech Research Center, 2nd Floor, East and West Falls Church Rooms
900 North Glebe Road, Arlington, Virginia 22203, Phone: (571) 858-3030

See the agenda and registration information at http://regional-communities.blogspot.com/2012/02/8th-mid-atlantic-regional-planning.html

Virginia Cooperative Extension Events in NoVa for March 2012

Tues., Mar. 6, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. ―Spring Lawn Care for Northern Virginia, Dr. Mike Goatley, Virginia Tech Extension Specialist, Fairlington Community Center

Tue., Mar. 13, 10 a.m. to noon―Gardening for Life: Getting Ready for Spring, Thomas Jefferson Senior Center, 3501 S. 2nd St., Arlington

Sat., Mar. 24, 9 a.m. to noon―Vegetable Gardening 101: Seed-Starting, Soil Preparation, and Where and When to Plant, Fairlington Community Center

To register for an event, contact the VCE Horticulture Help Desk at 703-228-6414. Many of the events will take place at Fairlington Community Center; the address is 3308 S. Stafford St., Arlington. For more information about VCE, visit the VCE website at http://offices.ext.vt.edu/arlington.

Showcase of Women Scientists Talk on Building a Weather-Ready Nation

The College of Natural Resources and Environment and AdvanceVT will be co-hosting Ms. Laura Furgione, Deputy Director of the National Weather Service (http://www.nws.noaa.gov/com/presentations/furgione.htm), for a keynote address that is a part of the Showcase of Women Scientists.  Her keynote address is open to the university and will be held on Tuesday, March 13th from 2-3:20 pm in 100 McBryde Hall.  Her talk will focus on:

Building a Weather-Ready Nation: The Next Generation The National Weather Service is leading a strategic alliance of partners to build a Weather-Ready Nation, where Americans understand the threat of extreme weather and prepare in advance for what we can't prevent. This effort to protect lives and livelihoods and help our economy thrive requires the work of many.  Laura Furgione, the Deputy Director of the National Weather Service, will describe the initiative and the potential opportunities for research, application, and communication that await new professionals.

For a full list of all the events associated with the Showcase of Women Scientists, please visit the event's website at: http://frec.vt.edu/fs/

NCPC Speaker Series in March and April Feature Federal Design, EcoDistricts

From the NCPC Newsletter: 
"Two Upcoming Speaker Series Events

Agents of Change: Local Perspectives on Federal Design
Thursday, March 29, 2012 | 6:30-8:00 PM

NCPC's next Speaker Series event will feature a panel discussion with three local planning directors -- Faroll Hamer from the City of Alexandria, VA, Rollin Stanley from Montgomery County, MD, and Harriet Tregoning from the District of Columbia. The discussion will focus on the impacts federal facilities have on local communities.

Learn more and RSVP

Shades of Green: Washington’s Emerging Ecodistricts
Wednesday, April 11, 2012 | 6:30-8:00 PM

Ecodistricts are popping-up throughout the National Capital Region, but each takes a different approach to sustainability. Join this casual spring gathering to hear from those planning the region's future showcases of sustainability.

Learn more and RSVP"

Transportation and Housing Toolkit - Free Regional Training Sessions in March 2012

From the Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission

"How Inclusive is Your Community?
It’s easy to overlook the needs of many in our community when those needs are different than our own. This workshop will provide tools for planners to use to assess their locality, highlight common barriers to inclusive communities, and present possible changes to ordinances and processes to serve all residents. The presentation will include an overview of the Transportation and Housing (THA) Toolkit, a step-by-step review of the new standardized assessment tool, results of case studies in the six localities in the Thomas Jefferson Planning District, and approaches to incorporate inclusive principles and considerations into the day-to-day operations of planning departments.

* This event is approved for 3.0 CM credits for AICP members.

Cost: Free. Registration is required to reserve lunch.
To register call (434) 979-7310 x210 or
email register@tjpdc.org"

Events:
March 9 –Wytheville
March 13 – Williamsburg
March 21 – Warrenton

All Events from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Click to download (Printable Invite )

Strong Cities, Strong Communities Fellowship Program Twitter Town Hall TOMORROW 2/28

On February 28 at 3:00 p.m. EST, the US Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Donovan and Assistant Secretary Poethig will host a Twitter town hall to launch the Strong Cities, Strong Communities Fellowship Program. The event will be streamed live on HUD’s website.

The Metropolitan Institute at Virginia Tech is pleased to be partnering with the German Marshall Fund (GMF) and Cleveland State University (CSU) for HUD’s SC2 Fellowship Program. Read more about this program.

UAPVirginiaTech's Ralph Buehler Presents on Travel Behavior, Transport Policy & Sustainable Transport in Germany and the USA

UAP Assistant Professor Ralph Buehler recently presented as part of the APA's Tuesdays at APA presentation series.  His talk was on "Travel Behavior, Transport Policy, and Sustainable Transport in Germany and the USA."  The presentation is available as a podcast at this link.

Professor Buehler is an Assistant Professor in Urban Affairs & Planning a Faculty Fellow with the Metropolitan Institute at Virginia Tech’s Alexandria Center.  Most of his research has an international comparative perspective, contrasting transport and land-use policies, transport systems, and travel behavior in Western Europe and North America. His research interests include: (1) the influence of transport policy, land use, socio-demographics on travel behavior; (2) active travel and public health; and (3) public transport demand, supply, and financial efficiency.

March 7 ULI Pgm on Navigating the Entitlements Process in the District of Coumbia

From ULI:
ULI Washington Young Leaders Group Real Estate 101:
Navigating the Entitlements Process in the District of Coumbia

Wednesday, March 7, 2012
6:00 – 8:00 PM
The George Washington University
Funger Hall (Room 108)
2201 G Street, NW
Washington, DC 20052


"The ULI Young Leaders Group continues its “Real Estate 101” series with a presentation on the entitlements process in the District of Columbia. A developer must navigate complex layers of politics, community relationships, local regulations and federal statutes to get a project approved in the District of Columbia so that it can be financed and built. Our presenter will be Phil Feola, a land use attorney at Goulston & Storrs and an adjunct professor at George Washington University School of Law. During the first half of his presentation, Phil will give an overview of the zoning regulations in the District of Columbia and the different avenues for obtaining relief from those regulations. During the second half of his presentation, Phil will talk about his recent experience entitling Cathedral Commons, a mixed-use, Planned Unit Development (PUD) project on Wisconsin Avenue.

Presenter: Phil T. Feola, Director at Goulston & Storrs, Adjunct Professor at George Washington University School of Law"

YLG/Student $10 members, $20 nonmembers
Registration increases by $5 after 3/2/2012

Register at https://netforum.uli.org/eWeb/DynamicPage.aspx?webcode=DCouncilEventInfo&Reg_evt_key=9b515a0b-3e78-4826-862f-673dcb9743fb&RegPath=EventRegFees

Job Oppty: Planner Position at Chesapeake Public Schools

PLANNER POSITION
Chesapeake Public Schools
Chesapeake, VA

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:
Analyzes rezoning applications and determines the impact the rezoning of the property will have on the school system's capital needs;
Reads, analyzes, and interprets site plans, development applications, and address plans;
Maintains departmental web page;
Tracks new residential development;
Tracks and maintains an accurate and detailed accounting of cash proffers related to residential development impact on schools;
Provides information and responds to zoning inquiries and capital needs from the public;
Responds to requests from city departments regarding general inquires;
Assists in the preparation of the capital improvement plan including assimilating and analyzing demographic information;
Assists in the preparation of a variety of planning documents, reports, maps, and charts for presentations to the School Board and various other groups including civic leagues;
Assists with the creation of Microsoft PowerPoint presentations;
Assists in geographic and data analyses relative to school boundaries, enrollment, and school site acquisition;
Assists in identifying potential school sites; gathering and evaluating data pertaining to potential school sites;
Assists in maintaining records of all real property owned by the School Board; and
Performs related tasks as required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Knowledge of school planning and development procedures, practices and strategies; thorough knowledge of public information techniques and procedures; ability to develop and present ideas effectively, orally and in written form; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with school and governmental officials, governmental bodies and associates; ability to read and interpret specialized maps (including site plans, tax maps, development plans, aerials, and plats), regulations, and various school and city documents; significant experience and demonstrated proficiency in using Microsoft Office applications (including Access, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint), including being able to create new projects within a spreadsheet or database with minimal supervision; knowledge of GIS is helpful; ability to learn new computer software and/or methodology; ability to multitask by planning, organizing, and executing multiple projects concurrently; ability to analyze, diagnose, and resolve planning-related problems on a daily basis; ability to produce accurate information in a timely manner prerequisite for work to be completed by coworkers and other departments; ability to create clear and concise reports, including narrative and statistical representations for use in tables and in charts.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in planning or related field and experience in planning, site identification/acquisition, zoning and demography required.

Full job announcement and link to application at: www.cpschools.com/departments/human_resources/job_description_new.php?id=192

Questions? Call 757.547.0580 Deadline: March 9, 2012

Graduate Student Invitation to Participate in the SPIA/Ridenour Faculty Fellowship Conference

To all graduate students in CAUS

Please consider submitting a proposal to present your work at the upcoming Ridenour Faculty Fellowship Conference, hosted by SPIA.  The conference theme is Distressed Cities.  We invite graduate students from SPIA, SOVA, SoC, and S A + D to develop proposals, and encourage collaboration.  

The attached flyer provides details about the event and the process for submitting proposals.  In general terms, we hope you will consider the ways in which your work may address, inform or engage the topic of Distressed Cities.  You may consider presenting research in progress that addresses the topic, an individual or collaborative research proposal, plans, designs, or art that engages the topic.

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please contact the conference organizers at  rff.spia@vt.edu

Feb 22 Research in Progress Lunch Cancelled

The Research in Progress Lunch for Wednesday, February 22 has been cancelled.  Please stay tuned for news about our next program date.

Job Oppty (2): Researchers at CIRCLE

From the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement:

"CIRCLE is hiring for two positions – Researcher and Senior Researcher. Please apply by April 13, 2012 for best consideration. Applications will only be accepted via the Tufts jobs site. You can access the appropriate page for each position via the links below.

Researcher
CIRCLE is seeking a Researcher to conduct research, perform data analysis, participate in program evaluations, help with project administration, and help communicate our findings to audiences that include academics, educators, policymakers, and the press. Responsibilities include conducting quantitative research for CIRCLE’s in-house research program; drafting fact sheets, web pages, and other research products for various audiences; participating in research and evaluation projects that may use a mix of methods, including qualitative research and field experiments; and answering queries from the general public, reporters, policy makers and academics.
Basic Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Three (3) years of related experience.
• Excellent computer skills and knowledge of at least one statistical package, such as STATA, SASS, or SPSS.
• Strong quantitative research (social science methods) and writing skills required. Familiarity with analyzing large public datasets such as those provided by the US Census.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a social science field. Knowledge of youth civic engagement programs (such as service-learning, youth media-production, or youth voting) is desirable.

To apply to this position,  send in an application and cover letter by April 13, 2012 via the Tufts page here.

Senior Researcher
CIRCLE is seeking a Senior Researcher to conduct research and to help to lead some of CIRCLE’s research or evaluation projects. The Senior Researcher will be a Tufts University employee and will work in the main CIRCLE office on the Tufts campus in Medford/Somerville, Massachusetts. Responsibilities include:

• serving as a researcher on a range of research projects that may include secondary data-analysis, literature reviews, field experiments, program evaluations and original surveys;
• producing reports, fact sheets and press releases on timely and relevant topics, often in close collaboration with CIRCLE colleagues;
• providing guidance to other CIRCLE staff and students who produce research (quantitative and qualitative);
• contributing to research grant proposals;
• representing CIRCLE at a wide range of events including research conferences, practitioner forums, press events and other public events;
• answering queries from reporters about CIRCLE research.

Although the Senior Researcher position does not come with regular teaching responsibilities, there may be opportunities to teach undergraduate courses on civic engagement and leadership periodically.
Basic Requirements:

• Master’s degree
• Five (5) years of related experience
• Experience with statistical software packages, databases, and Microsoft Office
• Strong research skills, including a good working knowledge of at least one statistical package, such as STATA, SAS, or SPSS, and some experience using large public datasets. Experience with multivariate statistical techniques or qualitative methods and evaluation methods
• Ability to communicate effectively with practitioners, reporters, scholars, and young people through writing, speech, and graphs
• Ability to produce reliable, accurate, and readable evaluations and research products on short deadlines
• Ability to work collaboratively with CIRCLE colleagues from varied backgrounds and to interact with practitioners
• Ability to teach research methods to colleagues and student/workers

Preferred Qualifications:
PhD in a social science discipline. Enthusiasm for youth civic engagement desired; however, prior research in this specific area is not required.

To apply to this position, send in an application and cover letter by April 13, 2012 via the Tufts page here. 

Tufts University is an AA/EO employer and actively seeks candidates from diverse backgrounds.
—-
CIRCLE (The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement) is a research center that studies young Americans’ civic participation.  CIRCLE is the premier source of information—facts, trends, evaluations, and best practices—related to youth civic engagement.  CIRCLE disseminates the results of research to policy makers, practitioners, journalists, and scholars in various disciplines. CIRCLE is part of The Jonathan M. Tisch College of Citizenship and Public Service at Tufts University, which prepares students in all fields of study for lifetimes of active citizenship, promotes new knowledge in the field, and builds an enduring and broadly shared ethos of citizenship and public service across Tufts University. Tisch College offers opportunities to engage Tufts students in meaningful community building and public service experiences, explore personal commitments to civic participation, and take on active and effective roles in public life and to engage faculty in expanded active citizenship research and teaching.  Tisch College also seeks to influence higher education in the US and abroad to embrace active citizenship."

CNU DC Scholarship Opportunity for CNU 20 West Palm Beach

From the Congress for New Urbanism:

"The Congress for the New Urbanism DC Chapter (CNU DC) is pleased to announce it will award two scholarships to attend the annual CNU Congress. The Congress will take place May 9-12, 2012 in West Palm Beach, Florida.

CNU DC provides the scholarships to local students and recent graduates. Each scholarship will award the sum of $800, which is sufficient to cover the cost of Congress registration ($125-$255) as well as some of the travel costs.

Eligibility

Those eligible for scholarship application will be graduate-level students in DC, Maryland, or Virginia who are studying architecture, planning, transportation, health, public policy/government, real estate/finance, law, or business/economics; or recent graduates (within the last five years) from those same fields who are now working in DC, Maryland, or Virginia.

Essay

Interested candidates will submit an 1-2 page essay (500-1,000 words) on a topic determined by the CNU DC board of directors. For 2012, the topic is the following:

The Congress for the New Urbanism celebrates its 20th Congress this May in West Palm Beach, Florida. CNU has come so far and accomplished so much -- or has it? What is your assessment of CNU's twenty years of efforts and its prospects for the near future? Where has CNU made the most progress, and where has it fallen short? What issues should CNU focus on in the next several years and who should it partner with?

Eligible candidates must submit their essay to CNU DC no later than 9:00 p.m., Friday, March 23, 2012. Submittals, questions, and comments should be sent via email to the CNU DC secretary, Laurence Aurbach. Winning candidates will be notified by Friday, March 30, 2012.

Additional details

Prior to the West Palm Beach Congress, scholarship recipients must provide their contact information (email address, phone number, and local mailing or business address). Student candidates must provide documentation of current enrollment. Recent graduates must provide documentation of enrollment within the past five years.

The recipient will be required to attend the CNU DC chapter meeting during the Congress, and briefly meet with the CNU DC board of directors.

CNU DC will pay the cost of Congress registration directly to the Congress for the New Urbanism on behalf of each scholarship recipient. The remaining amount will be paid to the recipient following the Congress. Previous scholarship winners are ineligible to receive a second scholarship.

CNU DC does not discriminate in the granting of any scholarship on the basis of race, sex, marital status, age, handicap, religion, national origin, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law."

Job Oppty: County Planner II

From the APA Virginia Listserve:

 

County Planner II

Henrico County, Virginia

Department of Community Revitalization

Salary Range:  $47,172  -  $84,765

Closing Date:  This position closes on Monday, February 20, 2012.

This position requires considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of urban planning, including basic statistics, mathematics, economics and sociology; ability to research and organize material in good report form and to give reliable advice on planning problems; ability to express ideas both orally and in writing in a clear and concise manner; ability to coordinate and supervise the work of professional and technical staff; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, officials and the public; good judgment.

This position is responsible for administration of the County Enterprise Zone program, undertaking necessary grant administration tasks, coordinating program marketing and outreach, providing technical assistance to businesses and associations, and providing design assistance and coordination.  

Position requires knowledge of architectural design and working knowledge of landscape architecture, zoning and building code requirements relative to commercial revitalization and redevelopment.  Ability to establish and maintain effective and professional working relationships with staff, elected and appointed officials and, business owners and representatives of business organizations.  Requires working knowledge of CDBG program requirements pertaining to economic development. 

Excellent customer service skills are essential for this position.

Applications for this position must be made through the Henrico County on-line application system, which is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.  To see the complete listing and to apply for this position, please access our job site portal through www.henricojobs.com.

Please note, this position closes end of day (maybe midnight) Monday, and on-line applications are required

If you have specific questions about the position, feel free to call or email me directly.

David Sacks

Community Development Manager

Henrico County Department of Community Revitalization

804-501-7611

sac01@co.henrico.va.us

High Table 2012

The Center for Public Administration and Policy (CPAP) and the Public Administrators at Virginia Tech (PAVT) are pleased to announce that Dr. James C. Scott, Sterling Professor of Political Science and Professor of Anthropology and the Director of the Agrarian Studies Program at Yale University, will be this year’s featured speaker.

We invite you to join us on Friday March 30th for open events including a Scholars lunch with Dr Scott.  You may also wish to register for the Friday night reception featuring alumni and our invited guest, as well as the Saturday lunch and keynote speech featuring Dr. Scott.  More details are available at http://www.cpe.vt.edu/hightable/.

Aaron Smith-Walter
High Table 2012 Chair
aaronsw1@vt.edu

Job Oppty: Assistant Chief of Planning

Assistant Chief of Planning

Organization: Fauquier County
Location: Warrenton, Virginia 

Fauquier County is currently seeking an experienced planner to fill the position of Assistant Chief of Planning.  Located in the Virginia Piedmont, the County has a long established planning philosophy of developing thriving service districts surrounded by active agriculture.  The County also seeks to preserve environmental and historic resources while encouraging economic development.  Planners are therefore involved in a great variety of challenging cases and projects.  

This position, within the Planning Division of the Department of Community Development, is responsible for providing case management of complex land use applications for Comprehensive Plan Amendments, Rezonings, Special Exceptions, Subdivisions and Construction Plans.  The Assistant Chief of Planning oversees Comprehensive Plan updates, special studies and citizen committees, and assists the Chief of Planning in overseeing and coordinating daily operations and activities of the Planning Division. The position provides staff support to various boards and commissions and has extensive contact with citizens, property owners, developers and design firms.  The Assistant Chief of Planning supervises subordinate personnel.

Minimum requirements include a Bachelor’s degree in urban planning or closely related field, with a Master’s degree preferred; at least 6 years of progressively responsible experience including comprehensive planning, land development review and long-range and/or current planning; knowledge of related fields such as transportation planning, environmental planning, urban design, zoning or historic preservation; strong communication and writing skills; proficiency with GIS and Microsoft Office.  Supervisory experience is desirable.  

Minimum starting salary is $63,000 with salary commensurate with qualifications and experience.  Position is open until March 10, 2012.

Interested applicants must submit an on-line Fauquier County classified application, available on the County's website:  www: fauquiercounty.gov.    For assistance with the on-line application call the Human Resources Department at 540-422-8300.  Please direct specific position-related questions to Susan Eddy, AICP, Chief of Planning at 540-422-8200 or email susan.eddy@fauquiercounty.gov.

NEW DATE: February Research in Progress Lunch

Dear All,

Please note that the research in progress (RIP) lunch (initially scheduled for tomorrow) has now been rescheduled to 22^nd February.

Apologize for any inconvenience caused.

Thank you!

**

Dear All,

Please join us at 12pm for the Research in Progress (RIP) Lunchtime discussion on Wednesday, February 22^nd, 2012!

Presentation topic:

“Translating from Drawing to Building”

In the early 16th century the professional role of the architect was rapidly changing amidst new technologies, profound shifts toward secularization, and the culture of Humanism.  This dissertation centers on how the practice of architecture in 16th century Florence was both absorbing and inventing new ways of communicating and representing the building process.  As we confront recent shifts in our own forms of representation and communication, many of these same questions remain surprisingly pertinent.
Jonathan Foote

Visiting Faculty, California Polytechnic State University

Venue: 3rd Floor Library, 1021 Prince Street

Looking forward to seeing all of you!!

Course on Sustainability in Russia

Virginia Tech’s Global Sustainability Initiative’s Russia Project, taking place in Russia from August 9-18, 2012, will explore some of the sustainability challenges presented by a rapidly shrinking population, particularly in large urban areas such as Moscow and St. Petersburg. Led by UAP faculty member Kris Wernstedt and working with partners including USAID and the Moscow-based Strelka Institute, the team will explore how effective public-private partnerships are being developed to achieve international environmental sustainability goals and to upgrade urban ecological infrastructure.  To learn more about GSI and how graduate students, senior undergrads, and professionals can sign up for the 6-credit course, visit http://gsi.cnre.vt.edu.

In partnership with Virginia Tech, the Global Sustainability Initiative (GSI) is coordinating a series of international projects to provide graduate students and professionals with hands-on experience exploring sustainability challenges in some of the world’s most rapidly developing nations. Participants are organized into consulting teams to examine the complexities and solutions for sustainable development in a variety of national and local contexts. Through online pre/post-trip work and 10 days working in-country, team members gain a sense of the broad context of sustainability challenges at the national level, an in-depth awareness of the complex issues facing local communities, and exposure to the strategies being developed by local, national, and international organizations to address them. GSI projects are available for graduate or continuing education credits and provide participants a unique opportunity to travel and gain international experience.  GSI International Projects for 2012-2013 focus on sustainable development in the BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.  Applications are now being accepted for the China and South Africa Projects taking place in May 2012, and the August 2012 project in Russia.

Feb 17 Event: Why Don't American Cities Burn?

Why Don’t American Cities Burn?

Inequality, Poverty, and Hope for Urban America

Friday, February 17 -- 12:15

American cities have remained relatively free of collective violence in recent years. Why, given record inequality and historically negative economic events, is this the case? University of Pennsylvania Professor Michael Katz explores these questions and the intersections of race, inequality and poverty in his new book, Why Don't American Cities Burn?

One of the country's leading urban historians, Katz has previously chronicled the evolution of the welfare state and the transformation of urban forms. He now has set out to explain the shift away from images of a pathological black "underclass" to praise of the entrepreneurial poor who work to find the beginning of the path to the middle class. Katz examines the possibility of a new narrative that acknowledges the complicated history of American cities while simultaneously demonstrating the capacity of residents, advocates and government to address many of the problems facing urban centers. Rather than waiting for a "silver bullet" to solve long-standing problems, he asks, can we create a politics of modest hope?

Join us on February 17th for a discussion with the author on how the interlocking forces of lingering racial inequality, social and economic exclusion, and urban policy have contributed to a society deeply fragmented along the lines of race and class.

This event will be live webcast on the event page starting at 12:15pm on February 17th for viewers outside the Washington area. No advance registration is necessary.

PARTICIPANTS

Featured Speaker

Michael B. Katz

Walter H. Annenberg Professor of History, University of Pennsylvania

Author, Why Don’t American Cities Burn?

Discussant

Devin Fergus

Assistant Professor of US History

Hunter College

Moderator

Reid Cramer

Director, Asset Building Program

New America Foundation

For additional details, please go to:
http://newamerica.net/events/2012/why_don_t_american_cities_burn

Feb 28 Community Voices

February  COMMUNITYVOICES

Woody Crenshaw

President of SustainFloyd
will speak on "Leading and Lighting Social Change: Ag, Arts and Advocacy"

Tuesday, February 28, 7:00pm
The Lyric Theatre - free admission

On Tuesday, February 28th at 7:00pm at the Lyric Theatre, social entrepreneur and businessman Woody Crenshaw will speak on sustainable development in Floyd County and the Blue Ridge Plateau, particularly the revitalization of agriculture and farming. Crenshaw is a founding member and President of rapidly growing SustainFloyd, a social benefit organization operating projects that include the Floyd Farmers Market, the Farm to School Program, the Floyd Artisan Tour, the SustainFloyd Film Series, the first Floyd Energy Inventory and new development projects for produce and dairy processing facilities.  

SustainFloyd operates organic certified Shooting Creek Farm, developing it to be a farm education center. Now undertaking curriculum development for the farm with a grant from Virginia Tech, SustainFloyd has responded to growing local interest and support for revitalizing Floyd's agricultural assets.

Woody and his wife Jackie are owners of Crenshaw Lighting, a high-end lighting studio, employing forty local craftsmen and designers. The Crenshaws own the Floyd Country Store, home of the famous Friday Night Jamboree. The restored historic site features a snack bar, book, CD, and clothing sections; and, has become a hub of local community activity. The Crenshaws are beginning the second growing season at their Riverstone farm on the Little River. A certified organic farm, Riverstone represents for the Crenshaws a major sustainable development initiative building on local strengths and environmental resources.

Woody Crenshaw's program for Community Voices will combine stories and living cases from an emerging and vital expression of local innovation and entrepreneurship for sustainable development. For more than a decade, Woody has been an advocate for the creative economy of Southwest Virginia and specifically Floyd County. His interests have basically been to try to use craft, and music  and alternative agriculture as a vehicle for community development.

Wed Feb 15 Research in Progress (RIP) Lunchtime Discussion

Please join us at 12pm for the Research in Progress (RIP) Lunchtime discussion on Wednesday, February 15th, 2012!

Presentation topic:

“Translating from Drawing to Building”

In the early 16th century the professional role of the architect was rapidly changing amidst new technologies, profound shifts toward secularization, and the culture of Humanism.  This dissertation centers on how the practice of architecture in 16th century Florence was both absorbing and inventing new ways of communicating and representing the building process.  As we confront recent shifts in our own forms of representation and communication, many of these same questions remain surprisingly pertinent.

Jonathan Foote

Visiting Faculty, California Polytechnic State University

When: Wednesday, 15th February 2012

Venue: 3rd Floor Library, 1021 Prince Street

Looking forward to seeing all of you!!

UAP's Professor Ralph Buehler Presenting at Tuesdays at APA

From the CASPA Listserve:

"Professor Buehler Presenting at Tuesdays at APA. UAP Professor Ralph Buehler will be presenting at Tuesdays at APA on February 21st at 5:30pm. The topic of his presentation is: Travel Behavior, Transport Policy, and Sustainable Transport in Germany and the USA. More details (including RSVP instructions) are available here: http://www.planning.org/tuesdaysatapa/dc/index.htm. We hope to see you there as well!"

WE ACT for Environmental Justice Seeks to Fill FederalPolicy Analyst Position in Wash DC Office

From the Community-Campus Partnerships for Health listserve:
"This year WE ACT for Environmental Justice (http://weact.org) will be opening a new office in Washington, DC. The purpose of the DC office will be to develop strategic, unified, and sustained advocacy to achieve equity in federal policy and practice by influencing federal legislative and non-legislative agency actions, and by educating legislators/officials on key environmental justice issues.

WE ACT is seeking a skilled and experienced legislative policy analyst and grassroots federal agency liaison who can successfully advocate for federal legislative and regulatory action that addresses its eight core environmental and public health indicators affecting environmental justice communities in New York City. This Environmental Justice Federal Policy Analyst position will be based in Washington, DC, though regular visits to the main WE ACT office in New York City will be required.

The full job description is posted at http://bit.ly/ym9hGk"

Assistant Director of Community Development, Durham, North Carolina

Assistant Director of Community Development - #2953

Housing and Community Development

Hours: Monday-Friday
8:00a.m.-4:30p.m.

Hiring Range: $73,322.00 - $95,319.00

Last Edited Date: 01/27/2012

Closing Date: 02/24/2012

Description:
The purpose of this position is to assist with direction and activities of the Community Development Department, which include the administration of HUD-funded entitlement programs and their associated requirements and managing departmental staff. This position has fiscal and reporting responsibility for the Community Development Department including developing the department budget, assuring that appropriate linkages exist between budget, funding limitations and service levels, preparing financial statements and budget reports, forecasting revenues and expenditure, presenting proposals for approval, authorizing payments and monitoring expenditures. Other administrative responsibilities include planning and prioritizing work, ensuring compliance with policy and procedure, and participating in staff development and hiring processes. The position monitors the compliance component of the entitlement programs, manages the loan portfolio, and the Departments administrative functions; participates in long range planning and organizational responsiveness for the Department and represents the Department to the public, other departments, and outside agencies.

Deadline date for application: February 24, 2012

Applications/resumes to:
Human Resources Department
101 City Hall Plaza
Durham, NC 27701
or e mail: jobs@ci.durham.nc.us
or fax to (919) 560-4969

An EOE/AA employer

Requirements:

Bachelor's Degree in public or business administration or related field (Master's degree is preferred);
Nine (9) years experience including experience in Federal fund monitoring /reporting and supervisory experience;
Valid NC Class C driver's license.

Individuals selected for conditional offers of employment must pass the City of Durham physical examination including drug and alcohol testing. A driver's history check is conducted for applicants applying for jobs requiring a valid North Carolina Driver's License and/or CDL. "This Agency Seeks Diversity in the Workplace". The City of Durham is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

Research Assistant, The Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness, Arlington, VA

The Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC), a non-profit consulting organization, seeks a research assistant to support its research, consulting, and association management activities.

The position's responsibilities would assist in:

Analyzing state economic development budgeting and policy;
Supporting regional economic research and facilitated consulting projects through data analysis and report writing/editing; and
Providing member services and outreach to federal, state, and local government agencies and research organizations.

The candidate should possess minimum background of a Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Economics, Geography, Urban and Regional Planning or other relevant field (Master's degree is preferred). The candidate must have a demonstrated writing ability and proficiency with Microsoft Office (especially Excel and Word). The ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously is also necessary. The candidate should demonstrate a genuine interest in U.S. economic development and strong sense of intellectual curiosity. Some domestic travel may be required.

The applicant should submit a resume, cover letter and writing sample. CREC is an equal opportunity employer and is based in Arlington, Virginia. Please email your application materials to Sean McNamara at sam@crec.net.

The Council for Community and Economic Research c2er.org

Research Assistant, U.S. Regional Economic Development Date Posted: February 02, 2012 The Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness Arlington, VA The Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC), a non-profit...

Expiring in 13 days

Feb Events on Greening America's Capital - The Anacostia Metro Station

From the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments:

"The District of Columbia was recently selected as one of five capital cities to receive the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Greening America’s Capitals technical design assistance.

This assistance will focus on green design and pedestrian/bicycle safety in the public spaces surrounding the Anacostia Metro Station and its proximity to the Anacostia River. Part of the design process will include a community work session—or a “charrette”—which will focus on designing a public space that connects the metro station to neighborhood assets, makes the area safer for pedestrians and bicyclists, better manages local stormwater and complements upcoming economic development projects in the community.

The Office of Planning, District Department of the Environment, the Department of Housing and Community Development, and the District Department of Transportation are seeking your help in reaching out to the surrounding community and spreading the word about the event. We would like to engage as much local support and participation as possible to in order to understand what area residents would like to see in their neighborhood and what some of the major concerns are for the metro station area. We are asking you to forward the flyer attached this email to your contact lists or to those you think would be interested in improving the area surrounding the Anacostia Metro Station.

The attached flyer provides more detailed information on the event, which will be held at Matthews Memorial Baptist Church (2616 Martin Luther King Jr., Washington, DC 20020) following this draft schedule:

Monday February 13th, 6:30pm to 8pm – Public Evening Presentation
Tuesday February 14th, Daytime – Design Charrette
Wednesday February 15th, 12:30pm to 2pm – Community Open House

For more information, please contact Laine Cidlowski at the Office of Planning at laine.cidlowski@dc.gov or (202) 442-8809."

Save the Date for Spring Break 2013 Study Abroad Pgm: Walking Trek Across N. England

 Save the Date!

Spring Break 2013 Study Abroad Program

Walking Trek Across Northern England

March 2013

Northern England is one of the most intensively managed natural landscapes and village networks in the world. At the core of this beautiful region are the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales National Parks. On this 10 day trek you will be hiking 110 miles through this rich planning laboratory, staying in youth hostels and B&Bs.

The English countryside and village planning system is a direct reflection of English culture and history. It varies significantly from American policy and practice including such considerations as regulatory rigor, legal foundation, housing policy, open space and natural resource protection schemes, and urban design formats. This UAP Study Abroad Program utilizes the techniques of contrast and comparison to rapidly advance your insight into American planning practice by exposing you to an alternative national system. You will learn a number of techniques and policy approaches that are rare or nonexistent in America.  The best way to fully absorb the implications of these differences is through a long and reflective walk. It is a ramble filled with examples, ideas, and images that will last through a lifetime of professional practice.

Information sessions will be held in Spring 2013.

Questions? Contact

Dr. Donald Chance (Oregon/Washington State)
dochance@vt.edu 540-808-8847

Dr. Diane Zahm (Virginia Tech)
dzahm@vt.edu

Professor Jesse Richardson (Virginia Tech)
jessej@vt.edu

Working with Nature for Sustainable, Beautiful Gardens: June 9-10

Virginia Cooperative Extension/Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia are hosting a 2-day symposium on Sustainability "Working with Nature for Sustainable, Beautiful Gardens" June 9-10

From the Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia:

A Two-Day Symposium Featuring

* Douglas W. Tallamy, Author of Bringing Nature Home
* Holly Shimizu, Executive Director, U.S. Botanic Garden

Register now through EventBrite.

Day 1: Keynote presentation by Dr. Tallamy on how native plants can beautify our gardens while serving as central food sources for the insects, birds and butterflies that are essential to a healthy local ecosystem. Holly Shimizu will describe the Landscape for Life ™ program, an eco-friendly approach to gardening from the U.S. Botanic Garden that can provide a wealth of health and environmental benefits. The day also includes break-out sessions with local experts on elements of the Landscape for Life ™ program. To be held at Fairlington Community Center.

Day 2: Participants will tour the VCE/MGNV Demonstration Gardens in Arlington and Alexandria to see the elements of the Landscape for Life™ program in action.

Registration fee (includes a box lunch): $40 for early registration; $50 starting on April 1.

Register Now through EventBrite.

See the attached flyer for more information. Sustainability Symposium (PDF)
More information is available about the Landscape for Life program at their website."

New Post from UAP's Max Stephenson: The Idea of the Nation

Max Stephenson

From the Institute for Policy and Governance blog:

"Some 30 years ago the eminent political scientist Samuel Beer wrote an article for the New Republic in which he questioned the implications for what he called the idea of the nation of then President Reagan’s declaration that “government” was the nation’s most pressing challenge. We now know the Reagan years ushered in a period of neo-liberal politics in which it has become common currency for elected leaders in the United States and Europe to argue that economic growth requires smaller government, diminished regulation of market actors and, in general, increased political support for the market and for investors and investment capital in society. If anything, as I have written recently, this predilection has only deepened in our society and politics since the Reagan presidency, with all of the current Republican Party presidential candidates adopting the neo-liberal stance as axiomatic"  Read more

Appalachian Food & Agriculture Summit 2012

From AFAS:

"Appalachian Food & Agriculture Summit 2012
Common Roots, Common Goals
March 23-25
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA

What is it?
The inaugural Appalachian Food and Agriculture Summit 2012: Common Roots, Common Goals will provide opportunities for connection, education, discourse, and hands on experience focused on engaging in a healthy food system. Through workshops, FOOD, farm tours, hands-on components, poster sessions, and keynotes, this summit should help showcase the benefits of understanding your food system.

Who is invited?
YOU! Students from schools throughout the Appalachian region and community members are welcome.

Is there a cost?
Yes, there will be a registration cost for this event. Several meals will be included in your participation in AFAS 2012. Those looking for housing will have a slightly higher registration cost and those not needing housing for the weekend will get a slightly lower rate.

How do I register?
Check out our website: www.afas2012.com. Registration will be entirely online and will include a short survey.

Want to attend AND participate?
AFAS 2012 is happening March 23 - 25, 2012. Saturday includes workshops and a poster session to showcase projects, businesses, research, programs, organizations in the Appalachian region. If you're interested in hosting a workshop or manning a table during the poster session, please email afasummit@gmail.com

Who's in charge here?
Students involved with the Sustainable Food Corps at Virginia Tech as well as the Civic Agriculture and Food Systems Minor at Virginia Tech are collaborating to put on this inaugural event.

Who can I contact with questions/ comments?
We welcome all questions, comments, concerns, brainstorms for this summit. Email us at afasummit@gmail.com and we will get back in touch with you as soon as possible.

Goals of the AFAS 2012

• Provide opportunities for education and discourse centered around access and support of the Appalachian Food System(s).
• Facilitate hands on experiences associated with Food and Agricultural practice.
• Create connections among participants to help maintain healthy community/regional food systems.
• Create space for a diversity of perspectives.
• Showcase Appalachian Food Systems."

Call for Entries: 2012 ULI Global Awards for Excellence Program

From the Urban Land Institute:

"In its 34th year, the program is the centerpiece of ULI's efforts to identify and promote best practices in all types of real estate development. The awards define the standard for real estate development practice worldwide and welcome entrants from all regions.

Besides serving as examples to promote best practices, the winners and finalists receive many benefits such as worldwide publicity, coverage in Urban Land magazine (both print and online), inclusion—for both winners and finalists—in a hardcover book distributed worldwide, recognition at the ULI Fall Meeting, and more. Winning the award is a great way to boost your company or organization's visibility and support its continuing success while contributing to the corpus of best practices." Read more

Kevin Desouza, Director of Metropolitan Institute, Authors New Book on Intrapreneurship

by Barbara Micale

"Bridging academia and the corporate world, Kevin Desouza, director of the Metropolitan Institute at Virginia Tech, has written a recently published book looking at the critical role of ideas in the success of any new venture. Intrapreneurship, published by the University of Toronto Press, provides an engaging guide for managers and employees, as well as academics and staffers, on how to direct the flow of ideas and foster a culture of entrepreneurship within their existing structure."  Read more

Research Talk with Steven Rathgeb Smith, Thursday Feb 9th @ 5:30

Please join us for a SPIA and MI Event:  

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 9 @ 5:30-6:30, 1021 Prince Street, 2nd Floor

"Revisiting Nonprofit Advocacy"

A talk with

Professor Steven Rathgeb Smith

University of Washington, Evans School of Public Affairs

Nancy Bell Evans Professor of Public Affairs

American University

Visiting Professor, School of Public Affairs (Spring 2012)

VT’s School of Public andInternational Affairs and The Metropolitan Institute

Apply for the Innovations in American Government Awards

From the Harvard Kennedy School's Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation:

"Offered by the Harvard Kennedy School's Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation, the Innovations Award is heralded as the nation's premier award for the public sector. It recognizes programs that demonstrate creative and effective government at its best.

This year, the Center's Innovations Program will also continue to identify and promote promising government efforts and partnerships through our Bright Ideas program.

All units of government — federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial — from all policy areas are eligible to apply for recognition.

The top winner of the Innovations in American Government Award will receive a $100,000 grant to support replication and dissemination activities. Top finalists will also receive monetary grants.

Applications and additional information for both initiatives are available at: www.innovationsaward.harvard.edu

APPLICATIONS ARE DUE MARCH 1, 2012"

Green Neighborhood/Eco District Graduate Research Assistant Position(s) for Spring 2012 Semester Only

The Metropolitan Institute has the immediate need for a graduate research assistant (GRA) to inventory, classify, and compare emerging neighborhood or district level sustainability initiatives. The US Green Building Council has its LEED-ND (neighborhood development) system that establishes a series of performance measures and standards for the certification of neighborhood scale projects. These standards go beyond building energy efficiency to include a wide range of smart growth/sustainability planning standards.

Using LEED-ND as a baseline (or case study), the GRA would conduct a program inventory that classifies other neighborhood or district scale sustainability policy and planning frameworks and compare not only the performance metrics and standards among the different systems, but the overall planning process and program. For example, Portland State University is working with the city of Portland to pilot test five eco districts and the National Capital Planning Commission and District of Columbia’s planning department is seeking to do the same in Washington, DC, neighborhoods (link). The GRA would track down similar initiatives in the US and abroad and speak with planners, researchers, and citizens involved with these pilot initiatives. The deliverable would be a 25+ page report that synthesizes these different eco district frameworks along with relevant matrices, appendices, references, and interview summaries.

In addition to comparing these neighborhood/eco district models, the GRA would research innovative uses of technology that are supporting (or could support) the monitoring and measurement of these neighborhood base systems, such as mobile phone applications or other hand held PDA, with a special emphasis on processes that engage neighborhood residents in the inventory and tracking of various sustainability performance measures at the neighborhood scale. The deliverable would be an annotated inventory of technology examples with links to web sites and news/journal articles and a memorandum summarizing the findings for practitioners (about 20 pages).

A full-time GRA position is a 10 or 20 hours per week position. Qualified students must be enrolled for 12 credits for the spring semester. We will entertain interest from students who can work either 10 or 20 hours. We are also open to the idea of having two students at 10 hours per week or one student at 20 hours. Students with previous experience with green buildings, especially those that are LEED certified are preferred.

Please send an e-mail to mivt@vt.edu expressing your interest by Tuesday, February 7th. Please attach a writing sample and a current resume. Let us know your interest and availability for either the 10 or 20 hour assistantship.