2024 Annual Report

President’s Message

APA California Chapter members,

I am pleased to present the 2024 APA California Annual Report. This report highlights the accomplishments, initiatives, and ongoing efforts of the Chapter in advancing the planning profession and supporting our members throughout the past year.

Throughout 2024, APA California has remained committed to fostering innovation, promoting professional development, and advocating for sound planning policies that enhance communities across our state. From our wildly successful annual conference in Riverside highlighting the Inland Empire, to our robust efforts seeking to raise the voices of our State’s diverse populations, to our legislative and policy efforts, we have continued to provide valuable resources and engagement opportunities for planners at all career levels.

Key highlights of this year’s report include:

• Legislative and policy updates, including our advocacy on key planning issues affecting California such as housing and climate adaptation.
• Professional development initiatives and educational programs that have supported the growth of our members.
• Highlights from the 2024 APA California Conference, showcasing the knowledge-sharing and networking opportunities that define our Chapter.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives aimed at highlighting important voices in our communities while fostering a more programming focusing on inclusive planning.

As I complete my term as President at the end of 2024, I want to extend my gratitude to our dedicated and extraordinarily talented Chapter Board, our committee members, Section leadership, professional staff and the outstanding volunteers who have contributed their time and expertise to further APA California’s mission. It has been an honor to serve in this role and work alongside such passionate and talented professionals.

Finally, thank you for your continued support of APA California and for your commitment to shaping a more equitable and resilient future for our communities. We look forward to another year of progress and collaboration in 2025.

Sincerely,
Andrea Ouse, AICP
President, APA California

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2024 Legislative & Policy Advocacy

APA California remained deeply engaged in the 2024 legislative cycle, tracking and responding to hundreds of planning-related bills. Key issues included housing production, infrastructure funding, CEQA reform, climate adaptation, and land use policy. The Chapter actively advocated for sensible updates to housing element law, increased investment in sustainable infrastructure, and stronger tools for local governments to address climate change.

APA California took the following actions:

• Submitted letters on key legislation.
• Held meetings with legislators and state agency staff.
• Provided testimony at hearings.
• Monitored and responded to state budget proposals impacting planning grant programs.
• Issued monthly updates to members tracking legislative priorities, bill introductions, and key deadlines.

Several critical bills gained traction in 2024. APA California supported legislation streamlining housing approvals and improving housing accountability, while opposing bills that risked undermining local planning authority. The Chapter also supported bills promoting environmental justice and equitable community investment. Special attention was given to budget proposals affecting planning grant programs, particularly as the state faced a significant budget deficit. APA California played a key role in protecting funding for climate and housing initiatives by highlighting their long-term benefits to California’s communities.

Monthly legislative updates kept members informed on evolving priorities, new bill introductions, and legislative deadlines. With the help of our Policy and Legislation Team, APA California maintained a strong presence in Sacramento and continued to shape policies critical to the future of planning across the state.

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Professional Development

In 2024, APA California continued its strong commitment to advancing the professional growth of its members through a diverse lineup of educational programs, workshops, and events. These offerings were designed to provide timely, relevant content while supporting members in achieving and maintaining their AICP certification through Certification Maintenance (CM) credits.

The Chapter delivered a robust catalog of CM-eligible sessions throughout the year, including legislative briefings, planning law updates, and specialized trainings. Signature offerings included the 2024 California Planning Leadership Academy, a hands-on leadership program for mid-career professionals, and in-person Wildfire Land Use Planning trainings in partnership with CAL FIRE. Additional highlights included an LGBTQIA+ Planners Panel on inclusive planning practices and the 38th Sonoma State University Planning Conference, which addressed equity, SB 743, and housing legislation. A wide variety of CM sessions were also offered at the 2024 APA California Conference.

Together, these professional development efforts reinforced APA California’s role as a leader in continuing education for planners. By providing access to high-quality, relevant learning experiences, the Chapter helped equip members with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate evolving planning challenges and make meaningful contributions to California’s communities.

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2024 Annual APA California Conference

Held at the Riverside Convention Center from September 27–October 1, the 2024 APA California Conference was the largest in Chapter history, attracting 2,034 total attendees—a 30% increase from 2023. This included 279 student members, 158 Young and Emerging Planners (YEPs), and 262 non-members, illustrating strong outreach across experience levels. The Inland Empire provided a vibrant backdrop for a theme that explored past, present, and future planning practices under the banner “Cultivating Our Future.”

Over the course of five days, attendees participated in 105 sessions and 14 mobile workshops, earning up to 153 CM credits. Student Day featured 19 unique sessions including a Tactical Urbanism Workshop and live podcast tapings. A record 448 participants signed up for mobile workshops, although attendance was lower than expected due to scheduling conflicts and environmental conditions—highlighting a key area for future improvement.

The conference featured renowned speakers and thought leaders, including Cheech Marin during the Opening Plenary and Olivia Sandusky of NBC Palm Springs during the Closing Plenary, who addressed pressing issues around the Salton Sea. The Diversity Plenary brought together leaders from APA National and the California Racial Equity Commission to discuss equitable planning practices. Other highlights included the Awards Program, Sponsor and Networking Receptions, and an engaging Student Day Mixer. Sponsorships also broke records, with 52 booths sold and $244,000 in revenue.

Feedback from attendees indicated high satisfaction with the conference content, AV support, and registration experience, while recommending improvements to signage, room assignments, workshop logistics, and dietary accommodations. These insights will help shape an even stronger experience for next year’s conference in Monterey.

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Awards Program Highlights

The Chapter’s Awards Ceremony returned to the Riverside Convention Center in 2024, drawing 250–300 attendees for a lively and engaging celebration. A new format allowed recipients to give two-minute speeches, adding a personal and engaging touch to the event.

The APA California Awards Program Policy was also updated to streamline categories and align with National APA’s program.

APA California’s Awards Program continues to highlight the best in planning across the state—recognizing innovation, leadership, and community impact in projects ranging from transportation and housing to public engagement and climate resilience. By honoring this work, the program not only celebrates professional excellence but also promotes learning and inspiration across the planning community.

Award Winners:

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Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Initiatives

APA California remained deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout its 2024 programming. Several educational sessions were thoughtfully curated to amplify underrepresented voices, elevate community-driven planning efforts, and equip members with the tools to embed equity into their professional practice.

A key highlight of the year was the Diversity Plenary at the 2024 Conference, which featured a powerful discussion with APA National President Angela Brooks, Dr. Larissa Estes, and Gabriel Maldonado. The session, moderated by APA California Vice President for DEI Allison Joe, provided valuable insights into systemic inequities and strategies for inclusive leadership in planning. This flagship event reflected the Chapter’s commitment to DEI at the highest level of visibility and engagement.

In addition to the plenary, programs such as Advancing Equity in the Planning Profession, Civic Academy: Engaging the Next Generation of Community Leaders, and Reclaiming Spaces: Indigenous Voices in Planning created space for deeper dialogue and learning. These CM-eligible sessions empowered planners to approach their work through a lens of equity and cultural competency.

By expanding both the content and visibility of its DEI initiatives, APA California reinforced its role in shaping a more inclusive future for the planning profession and the communities it serves.

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Chapter Historian Activities

In 2024, APA California continued to preserve and celebrate the rich history of planning in the state through meaningful contributions to the Chapter archives and public programming. A significant milestone was the donation of the Marjorie Macris Collection to the Chapter archives at California State University, Northridge (CSUN). This important addition was made possible through collaboration with Marjorie’s daughter, Natalie Macris, and Chapter Historian, David Kwong, AICP. Special thanks are extended to Mallory Furnier, the Special Collections and Archives Librarian at CSUN, who serves as the Chapter’s official archivist and has been instrumental in maintaining the integrity and accessibility of these historical records.

At the 2024 APA California Conference, the Chapter Historian collaborated with Miguel Vazquez, FAICP, to organize the Betty Croly Memorial Session. This session featured Dr. Elizabeth “Libby” Tyler, FAICP, who delivered a compelling and thoughtful presentation in honor of Betty Croly’s legacy. The Chapter extends its sincere appreciation to both Miguel and Libby for their contributions to this meaningful event.

This year’s Historians Planning History Exhibit booth featured a reimagined display of the “Planning Pioneers” and “Landmarks” exhibits originally developed for the Chapter’s 75th Anniversary. The success of this installation was made possible through the support and efforts of several Inland Empire leaders. Notably, Scott Watson, Historic Preservation Officer for the City of Riverside, and Jennifer Gamble, Chair of the City’s Cultural Heritage Board and President of the Mission Inn Foundation and Museum Board, played key roles in bringing the exhibit to life. Their dedication helped ensure the booth was a vibrant and engaging feature of the conference.

Through these collaborative efforts, APA California continues to honor the individuals and milestones that have shaped planning across the state, preserving this legacy for generations to come.

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Section & YEP Highlights

Sacramento Valley Section (SVS)

In 2023/2024, the Sacramento Valley Section (SVS) launched the Rural Planning Leadership Academy and Network (R-PLAN) to address the unique challenges faced by rural planning professionals working for cities and counties in our region. Designed with their specific needs in mind, R-PLAN provided professional development opportunities while accommodating the difficulties of attending in-person events typically held in Sacramento.

Celebrating Success

The inaugural R-PLAN cohort wrapped up in spring 2024. Participants universally praised the program, highlighting its value in fostering connections and addressing issues unique to rural jurisdictions. One participant noted, “Networking with other rural planners and discussing shared challenges was incredibly beneficial.”

Comprehensive Programming

Over eight months, R-PLAN covered 11 key topics, including Leadership, Planning for Disasters, Housing, Transportation, Tribal Engagement, and Legislation, with insights from over 30 expert speakers.

Recap: 2024 Speaker Series – Do the Right Thing

The Sacramento Valley Section of APA and Caltrans recently hosted the 2024 Speaker Series, focusing on the theme Do the Right Thing. This six-part series brought together professionals from planning, design, and community development to explore complex topics like climate change, housing, and inclusivity. The sessions highlighted the multifaceted nature of “doing the right thing” and the challenges of turning ideals into actionable solutions.

Held at the West Sacramento Community Center and available via live stream, the series featured diverse panelists and moderators from across the region. Each session offered thought-provoking discussions and valuable networking opportunities for attendees.

The series drew attendees from a range of disciplines, all inspired to consider how they can challenge norms and work toward shared goals.

For more details, visit https://svsapa.org.

Looking Ahead

SVS is proud to have created a program that strengthens rural planning networks and skills. The 2024/2025 cohort is now underway!

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Inland Empire Section – Young and Emerging Planners (YEP)

The Young and Emerging Planners (YEP) Group of the Inland Empire Section partnered with University Planning faculty and student organizations at the community college level to foster meaningful connections between California Community Colleges, the American Planning Association (APA), and universities offering planning programs. This collaborative initiative aimed to build pathways for students by creating opportunities for engagement, information sharing, and networking between students, educators, and professionals in the planning field. Through this partnership, YEP leaders sought to introduce community college students to the diverse opportunities within the planning profession. They provided valuable insights into topics such as the planning profession’s job outlook, career pathways, and transfer requirements for students interested in advancing to four-year planning programs. During the initiative, YEP leaders shared personal experiences about their own planning journeys, highlighting their day-to-day roles, responsibilities, and the challenges and rewards of being a professional planner. Additionally, faculty from notable planning universities—Cal Poly Pomona and UC San Diego’s Planning Programs—offered insights into their respective academic programs, providing students with a better understanding of educational opportunities and curriculum pathways to advance their studies in planning. This collaboration strengthened partnerships with community colleges, expanded awareness of the planning profession, and connected students with valuable resources and insights, further supporting the next generation of planners as they navigate their academic and career trajectories.

7+ Social Mixers in all regions of the Inland Empire

• High Desert Event in Hesperia CA,
• Two Coachella Valley Events in Palm Desert, CA
• Events in Riverside, Temecula, Ontario, Upland, and Rancho Cucamonga 

Educational Outreach Events

• Resume/Interview Workshops at Cal Poly Pomona
• Planning Symposium at Community Colleges (Riverside Community College and Mount San Antonio College)
• Career Day Event at Crafton Community College (Yucaipa, CA)
• AICP Trivia in Rancho Cucamonga

State Conference Initiatives

• Student Day hosted of 600 students and young and emerging planners
• Buddy Program: Mentorship program to create networks between future planners with seasoned professionals
• Student Day Orientation/Urban Planning is Not Boring Collaboration
• Tactical Urbanism Workshop: Collaborated with SCAG and City of Riverside to provide information on Tactical Urbanism and an opportunity for students to physically implement the elements at the conference
• Student Day Mixer
• Career Advice Sessions and Resume Workshop: Invited seasoned professionals to provide students with more career tips and a chance to review resumes

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Financial Outlook

APA California closed 2024 with a strong financial position, reporting a net revenue of $101,851.75—370% above budgeted expectations. Total revenue reached $843,491.33, surpassing the forecast by $184,547.33 or 28%. This success was largely driven by a record-breaking $353,989.17 in conference profits, nearly triple the budgeted figure, and higher-than-expected national subvention and chapter dues.

Expenditures came in at $743,825.06, exceeding the budget slightly due to increased costs in board activities, professional services, and policy and legislation work. Investments in strategic priorities such as the Section subventions, membership engagement, and legal and administrative support also saw strong alignment with Chapter goals. Notably, the Chapter’s support for Student Scholarships, legislative affairs, and diversity and equity initiatives continued to be areas of dedicated funding.

With prudent financial management and exceptional conference and membership performance, APA California is well positioned to reinvest in member programs and Chapter priorities in 2025. The Chapter will continue to monitor budget trends and ensure sustainability while supporting advocacy, education, and leadership across the planning profession.

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Looking Ahead

APA California remains committed to strengthening our profession through connection, advocacy, and innovation. As we prepare for 2025 and our next conference in Monterey, we look forward to building on this year’s momentum and advancing the planning field across California.