The Ukiah (Calif.) Daily Journal, September 13, 2006

COLFAX CHOOSES GUALALA RESIDENT AS PLANNER

[Rachel's introduction: Britt Bailey, who successfully shepherded a precautionary principle ordinance through the legislative process in Mendocino County, has now been appointed to the County Planning Commission.]

By James Arens

Fifth District Supervisor David Colfax has nominated Gualala environmentalist and community activist Britt Bailey to succeed attorney Don Lipmanson as his appointed planning commissioner.

Bailey is an environmental policy teacher, the director of the Environmental Commons, an eight-year member and former chairwoman of the Gualala Municipal Advisory Council (GMAC) and coordinator of the Mendocino Partnership for the Precautionary Principle.

Colfax has worked with Bailey in the past on various projects and said he nominated her because of her commitment, ability and reputation.

"I think she has demonstrated her commitment to planning issues," Colfax said. "And she already has some experience working on coastal development permits with GMAC to help assist the Planning Commission. I also wanted to find someone wanting to make the commitment to spend a couple of long days working on planning issues each month."

Lipmanson said Colfax has made a good decision for his replacement on the Planning Commission.

"I can't think of a better choice," Lipmanson said in a written statement." Britt brings intelligence, experience and commitment to a demanding but immensely rewarding job."

Bailey, who will be appointed in January when Colfax begins his third term on the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors, is looking forward to the new challenges of being on the Mendocino County Planning Commission.

"I have been involved with the Gualala Municipal Advisory Council for the past eight years, and Supervisor Colfax informed me about this opening and I think the position will be very interesting," Bailey said. "I am also involved with environmental policy and I've dealt with coastal issues for a while and I am looking forward to dealing with inland issues now as well."

The Mendocino County Planning Commission has seven members and all are appointed by the Board of Supervisors. Timber and Agriculture hold two seats, and each supervisor appoints a member, whose appointment is subject to board ratification.

James Arens can be reached at udjja@pacific.net.

Copyright 2006 The Ukiah Daily Journal