L ETTER S TO THE EDITOR
To the editor: Congratulations on publication of the premier issue of Sustainable Communities magazine. On behalf of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, I commend you and your colleagues for putting out a package of very informative coverage on a wide range of important issues related to sustainability. There is a great deal happening here at HUD to promote sustainability, and we appreciate your coverage of our activities. However, the department and the Obama Administration are just starting what is a very long and challenging process. Changing the approach and focus of government takes hard work. Achieving coordination of federal transportation, housing, development and environmental programs in pursuit of sustainability is a long-term project.
We must overcome many challenges, including political opposition and budgetary constraints. We look to the Partnership for Sustainable Communities as a critical supporter of the federal government’s interagency partnership. We wish you good luck in attracting government officials and real estate professionals to join your organization.
Shelley Poticha Director, Office of Sustainable Housing and Communities US Department of Housing & Urban Development
To the editor: As executive director of the FormBased Codes Institute (FBCI) I joined the Partnership for Sustainable Communities as a member because I am impressed by the quality and range of the articles in this first issue. As you may know, FBCI
is a not-for-profit organization whose members are leading practitioners in urban planning, design and law. In addition to our educational outreach through courses, webinars, our website and annual awards for well-crafted and adopted formbased codes, our members also operate much as a think tank - discussing how to improve and further the practice of FBC. As a leader in the movement to create walkable, mixed-use and sustainable places, our organization offers a wide range of information on cutting edge issues in urban design and regulation, including sample form-based codes. I invite your readers to visit our web site at www.formbasedcodes.org/ I wish you success with your fine publication.
Carol Wyant, Executive Director Form-Based Codes Institute
Housing that makes sense. Today and tomorrow.
34NORTH
We believe that sustainable communities and sustainable business are one in the same. That’s why for over 50 years we have supported sustainability by creating affordable housing opportunities, developing urban infill sites, rehabilitating historic buildings, and constructing LEED certified buildings. At Herman & Kittle Properties, Inc., we create value through real estate.
Indianapolis, Indiana 4
Sustainable Communities • MARCH/APRIL 2011
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