Cyburbia Forums | Urban Planning Community http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/ Urban planning message board en Thu, 09 Sep 2010 06:48:41 GMT vBulletin 60 http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/images/misc/rss.jpg Cyburbia Forums | Urban Planning Community http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/ Environmental Science or Environmental engineering http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42023&goto=newpost Thu, 09 Sep 2010 01:35:46 GMT I am not sure if this is the right forum to ask this but I am trying to decide on the degree to get. I want to do environmental monitoring for the government or engineering firms. There is the 2 year tech programs but I thought I should get a degree and be more competitive and have a chance for advancement, and the I think the government wants you to have a degree. So that leaves me with Engineering or Environmental Science. I would rather do the science because it is in Vancouver and I just don't know if I can handle the work load of the engineering. Would the science get me into engineering firms or the government doing monitoring type work? Thanks. ]]> Student Lounge RhythmSection http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42023 Seatbelts http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42022&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 23:52:27 GMT Time for a poll. Seatbelts and their usage.

This weekend an older Toledo couple died in a horrific SUV crash on I-75, between Toledo and Bowling Green. Both were thrown from their vehicle. They were not wearing seatbelts.

I thought it odd that an older couple would not be wearing seatbelts. Seems that only younger (".....I am invincible.....") folks are most often the victims of fatals and non-seatbelt-usage was a factor. Triple A says that 211,000 lives have been saved by seatbelts in the last 30 years.....the years where seatbelt usage became common and often mandatory.

Seatbelts were not even installed on many vehicles in the 1950s and 1960s. This Bear never used a seatbelt until the following occured, about 1971:

I had just purchased a red Jeep CJ5. I was doing some off-roading on hills, with the doors off and the top down. As I roared down a big hill I had to turn a bit to miss a rock (or a stump.....I don't remember). That swerve almost forced me out of the driver's seat. Only my right hand grabbing the steering wheel saved me axx. :-c

From that day forward I have worn seatbelts.....and, later, as their availability became common, shoulder-belts. What about you? I would venture a guess that those born after 1970 have always worn seatbelts.....except for those first few years as a teen driver, eh? What say you?

Bear ]]> Friday Afternoon Club Bear Up North http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42022 The 2010s: name the decade http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42021&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 23:14:18 GMT The 1950s were called the "Nifty Fifties".

The 1960s were the "Swinging Sixties".

The 1970s were the "Me Decade".

The 1980s were the "Greed Decade".

The 1990s and 2000s really didn't have a catchy name.

What do you think this decade, the 2010s, be called? I've got a couple of predictions:

The Green Decade. Why? With the revival of environmentalism and the realization that, as billions of people join the middle-class, there's only so many resources to go around, we're going to see more organic and "green" products, more attention paid to reducing our carbon footprint, more recycling and conservation, and less conspicuous consumption.



The Douchebag Decade. Why? Being an asshole is actually in. Witness The Jersey Shore, Criss Angel, the rise of club and ultra lounge culture, and growing exhibitionism among young adults. Nothing is TMI any more,

]]> Friday Afternoon Club Dan http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42021 Professional designation and environmental impact assessment http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42020&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 21:07:49 GMT Good day all,

I was considering applying to become a provisional member with APPI however I am not positive if my current profession would fall under 'planning'.

I am currently employed with an environmental consulting firm where my primary role is conducting environmental impact assessment for proposed projects. My education would probably fall under 'related degree'.

Any thought?

Cheers ]]> Career Development and Advice ChrisK http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42020 Great Phone Calls from the Public http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42017&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:33:44 GMT Seems public service comes some great phone calls. case in point:

Caller: I would like to put a sign on my car to advertise a business.
Me: Ok, well depending on the sign that may violate our ordinance.
Caller: Well, it is actually to advertise to not support a local business. I hate them, and i want people to know they are frauds. They burned me.
Me: Um, ok.
Caller: So i want to place a sandwhich board on the back of a pick up, can i do that?
Me: No, we don't regulate context, so the revenge sign needs to be either permenantly affixed to your vehicle or used with magnets or other type of graphics.
Caller: So I can advertise not to shop there?
Me: I guess. The business may not like it, but as long as you don't violate our sign ordinance i don't see an issue.
Caller: So i can do like decals like "generic appliance store"
Me: Well, yes, i guess, if you want to take this thing this far.
Caller: I do. Thank you, You have been very helpful.
Me: Ok, good luck with the revenge thing. Have a wonderful day :r: ]]> Friday Afternoon Club CPSURaf http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42017 100% build out in NJ http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42016&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 17:27:51 GMT A report notes that The Garden State is down to its last 100 acres of developable land and will be plumb out in 40 years. Yikes! http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/29/realestate/29Njzo.html?_r=1 A report notes that The Garden State is down to its last 100 acres of developable land and will be plumb out in 40 years. Yikes!

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/29/re...Njzo.html?_r=1 ]]> Land Use and Zoning steel http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42016 Most surprising song on your iPod? http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42015&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:09:38 GMT Given the general arc of music you like (and I realize that many of you have diversely eclectic tastes), the question I pose is this:

What song would people find most surprising that you have downloaded to your iPod? (iPod being used in the generic sense. For really old farts/Luddites/What Have You, what song on an album in your collection would most surprise people?)

I think most would be surprised that I downloaded "You're a Grand Old Flag" sung by Jimmy Cagney in the movie "Yankee Doodle", about the life of George M. Cohan.

So, what say you, Cyburbia? ]]> Friday Afternoon Club Gedunker http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42015 Euclidean, form-based, or hybrid: which should we use? http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42014&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:50:12 GMT Our municipality is rewriting its code, and contemplating whether we should use a form based code, a euclidean based code, or some hybrid? We are an older small city, with our core developed prior to World War II. A form-based code might be a good fit for us. What are the best examples across the country of excellent land developemnt regulations: form-based, euclidean, or other? Thanks! Our municipality is rewriting its code, and contemplating whether we should use a form based code, a euclidean based code, or some hybrid?

We are an older small city, with our core developed prior to World War II. A form-based code might be a good fit for us.

What are the best examples across the country of excellent land developemnt regulations: form-based, euclidean, or other?

Thanks! ]]> Make No Small Plans leslieolsonhpo http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42014 New Orleans, December 29, 2010 http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42013&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 14:28:47 GMT The title is the answer. What is the question? The title is the answer. What is the question? ]]> Friday Afternoon Club dandy_warhol http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42013 <![CDATA[ARTICLE: The true story behind Shriners' statues]]> http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42012&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 01:46:18 GMT http://www.courier-journal.com/artic...iners++statues

HIGHLIGHTS:
Quote:
But few who see the monuments ... at Masonic centers across the country, know they depict a Shriner's kindness 40 years ago to an Evansville, Ind., girl named Bobbi Jo Wright, who was struggling to walk on crutches.
Nice to know the back story. ]]> Cities and Places JNA http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42012 Detroit: Program Evaluation (Homeless Action Network) http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42011&goto=newpost Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:21:13 GMT Homeless Action Network of Detroit Is seeking a Program Evaluation Specialist – Full-Time Contractual (Temporary). This position is responsible for developing and beginning the implementation of a robust program monitoring and evaluation system for programs receiving Federal and State funds to serve people who are homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless. The purpose of this program evaluation system will be to ensure these programs: 1) Produce positive outcomes 2) Are based upon identified needs in the community and informed by local data on homelessness 3) Meet the funders’ performance expectations 4) Align with Detroit’s 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness Additionally, the purpose of this program evaluation system is to allow HAND to identify programs that are struggling or not meeting expected outcomes and arrange for technical assistance as needed to help improve program performance and to position HAND to be able to implement new performance expectations resulting from the implementation of the HEARTH Act. General Responsibilities: Lead the development and implementation of program evaluation measures and tools necessary to support program planning and policy development Develop reporting procedures, monitoring, and technical assistance procedures for HUD-funded programs addressing homelessness Prepare and present reports as needed on program performance and results of monitoring Assist with performance monitoring and review of grants funded through community funding processes Work closely with data analysis staff to determine community and client-level needs, program strengths, and program outcomes Work with Program Coordinator in conducting site visits of funded programs Provide technical assistance or referrals to technical assistance to local applicant agencies Fulfill other administrative duties as assigned by the Program Director Qualifications and Skills: Experience in program monitoring and assessment Experience in program evaluation Understanding of and experience in homeless and housing issues; understanding of permanent supportive housing and other best practices in the field of homelessness desirable Familiarity with Continuum of Care role and process a plus Familiarity with HUD McKinney-Vento programs a plus Experience with data management information systems Ability to work as a team Strong interpersonal and organizational skills Demonstrated ability to take initiative and work independently Ability to manage multiple tasks in timely manner Comfort working in a small, dynamic, growing organization, and flexibility with working in this type of environment Demonstrated verbal and written communications skills Proficiency in core Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc) Desired Education: Bachelors in social work, *urban planning,* or other human services area required; Master’s degree and a minimum of three years’ post-graduate experience in human services/nonprofit sector preferred To apply, submit cover letter and resume to: Homeless Action Network of Detroit Attn: Amanda Sternberg P.O. Box 3238 Highland Park, MI 48203 Application deadline is September 17, 2010 Homeless Action Network of Detroit Is seeking a Program Evaluation Specialist – Full-Time Contractual (Temporary).

This position is responsible for developing and beginning the implementation of a robust program monitoring and evaluation system for programs receiving Federal and State funds to serve people who are homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless. The purpose of this program evaluation system will be to ensure these programs:

1) Produce positive outcomes
2) Are based upon identified needs in the community and informed by local data on homelessness
3) Meet the funders’ performance expectations
4) Align with Detroit’s 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness

Additionally, the purpose of this program evaluation system is to allow HAND to identify programs that are struggling or not meeting expected outcomes and arrange for technical assistance as needed to help improve program performance and to position HAND to be able to implement new performance expectations resulting from the implementation of the HEARTH Act.

General Responsibilities:

Lead the development and implementation of program evaluation measures and tools necessary to support program planning and policy development
Develop reporting procedures, monitoring, and technical assistance procedures for HUD-funded programs addressing homelessness
Prepare and present reports as needed on program performance and results of monitoring
Assist with performance monitoring and review of grants funded through community funding processes
Work closely with data analysis staff to determine community and client-level needs, program strengths, and program outcomes
Work with Program Coordinator in conducting site visits of funded programs
Provide technical assistance or referrals to technical assistance to local applicant agencies
Fulfill other administrative duties as assigned by the Program Director

Qualifications and Skills:

Experience in program monitoring and assessment
Experience in program evaluation
Understanding of and experience in homeless and housing issues; understanding of permanent supportive housing and other best practices in the field of homelessness desirable
Familiarity with Continuum of Care role and process a plus
Familiarity with HUD McKinney-Vento programs a plus
Experience with data management information systems
Ability to work as a team
Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
Demonstrated ability to take initiative and work independently
Ability to manage multiple tasks in timely manner
Comfort working in a small, dynamic, growing organization, and flexibility with working in this type of environment
Demonstrated verbal and written communications skills
Proficiency in core Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc)

Desired Education: Bachelors in social work, urban planning, or other human services area required; Master’s degree and a minimum of three years’ post-graduate experience in human services/nonprofit sector preferred

To apply, submit cover letter and resume to:

Homeless Action Network of Detroit
Attn: Amanda Sternberg
P.O. Box 3238
Highland Park, MI 48203

Application deadline is September 17, 2010 ]]> Job Board Veloise http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42011 JNA joins Teh Clubbbbbbbbbbbbe http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42010&goto=newpost Tue, 07 Sep 2010 22:39:02 GMT Congrats. 12K, that's something to add to your resume. ]]> Friday Afternoon Club RichmondJake http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42010 new to the forum...and to urban planning http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42009&goto=newpost Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:48:04 GMT i have enjoyed reading some of the threads posted. I am a recent recipient of a bachelor's degree in Architectural Studies at the U of Utah. As much as I enjoyed the major, there were a number of things that i didn't get too excited about. I am very interested in the well-being of communities and cities. I strongly believe that the interrelationship between environments-humans is reciprocal and often tenuous. Architecture is often "in the clouds" and doesn't address the larger scope of our cities. I was very turned off with the perceived arrogance and dominance-complexes of many of the architects I met. I guess they have to be that way to sell themselves.

anyway, I am highly considering pursuing a master's degree in Urban Planning with an emphasis in community development.

I would appreciate any additional advice and thoughts on the field of planning. I would like to know what professionals love and dislike about their careers in planning. It is hard to know what you want in life when you haven't experienced everything in the world! :) ]]> Introduce Yourself twobie http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42009 Ann Arbor: energy coordinator http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42008&goto=newpost Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:40:35 GMT The Clean Energy Coalition, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Washtenaw County, Michigan, seeks a Community Energy Coordinator to assist the City of Ann Arbor in the research, development, and administration of the City’s community-based energy efficiency and renewable energy projects and programs. ... will work with City businesses, residents, and organizations to coordinate projects that increase energy efficiency/renewable energy use and help the City of Ann Arbor achieve its ambitious energy goals. ... works in consultation with CEC Building Technical Services staff and under the direct supervision of the City of Ann Arbor Energy Programs Manager.

Minimum Qualifications:

* Bachelors or Masters degree (preferred) in architecture, business management, engineering, finance, environmental science, urban planning, public policy, or any related fields, or equivalent work experience in the above mentioned areas. Experience with energy efficiency projects required. Experience with renewable energy projects preferred.
* At least 3 years experience working in a project management setting.
* Self-starter, detail-oriented, enthusiastic, innovative, and capable of meeting challenges and deadlines.
* Established knowledge of the energy efficiency industry and of typical energy conservation measures for buildings.
* Demonstrated organizational and leadership skills.
* Experience in organizing public events.
* Team player with trouble-shooting and exceptional multi-tasking skills.
* Superior written and verbal communication skills, including experience working with media and public speaking.
* Proven commitment to energy and environmental issues.
* Solid computer skills including proficiency in using basic Microsoft and/or similar software products such as word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, email, web, and database applications.
* PE, EIT, CEM, RA/AIA, PMP, HERS, or BPI is preferred; however, actual experience will be viewed as more important than various certifications.

Job Duties & Responsibilities:

* Research, develop, and administer a new community-based building energy efficiency program including a PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing program.
* Attend community forums, public meetings, energy Commission and City Council meetings, and other events, and make individual and public presentations on the City Energy Program’s mission, services, and needs when necessary. Some weekend and evenings meetings should be expected.
* Create and execute project work plans, budget, schedule, and revise as appropriate, to meet changing needs and requirements of City energy projects.
* Hire, train, and supervise up to two part-time interns annually.
* Conduct ongoing evaluation of City energy projects and programs and make recommendations for improvements to CEC, the City Energy Programs Manager, and other City staff.
* Analysis of energy efficiency and renewable energy measures.
* Assemble and interpret a variety of energy related data and prepare accurate written reports.
* Manage client relationships and communication.
* Act as a liaison to media, individuals, and partner organizations in order to develop and implement community energy outreach and education programs.
* Contribute as needed to written communication materials such as newsletter, web site, fact sheets, news releases, presentations, grant proposals, and reports.
* Provide oversight, implementation, tracking, and reporting on grant related activities as prescribed by each individual grant.
* Assist the City in making informed decisions on policies, projects, and programming related to energy that resolve critical barriers to meeting Ann Arbor’s energy goals.
* Perform other duties as may be assigned and collaborate with other staff on work as needed.

Salary & Benefits:

* Salary commensurate with experience.
* Competitive benefits package.

Application Details:

* This position is open until filled.
* No phone inquiries please.
* EEOC

To apply (qualified individuals only) - please submit via email a writing sample, resume, professional references, and a letter addressed to:

Sean Reed, Executive Director
Clean Energy Coalition
44 East Cross Street
Ypsilanti, MI 48198

[email address] ]]> Job Board Veloise http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42008 Best small towns? http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42007&goto=newpost Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:37:45 GMT Good article on some great small towns. Personally, I have only been to Brevard, NC but found it to be a wonderful place. Anyone else have any experiences at these places? http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-35617390 Good article on some great small towns. Personally, I have only been to Brevard, NC but found it to be a wonderful place. Anyone else have any experiences at these places?

http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-35617390 ]]> Rural and Small Town Planning Hink_Planner http://www.cyburbia.org/forums/showthread.php?t=42007