UPDATE: This event has been postponed to April 9 due to a predicted snowstorm.
On Feb. 5, the Jamaica Plain Forum will host author Bruce Seifer to explore the components of sustainable economies at the city level.
Seifer, advisor to former mayors Bernie Sanders and Peter Clavelle of Burlington, Vt., developed a nationally recognized model for locally focused and community-oriented urban revitalization. He has recently co-authored “Sustainable Communities: Creating a Durable Local Economy” with Rhonda Phillips and Ed Antczak.
Working from the belief that nurturing locally grown small businesses and nonprofits helps sustain local economies in the long run, he told the Gazette he knows what it takes to build a sustainable economy.
“I worked in City Hall in Burlington, Vermont for 28 years. I was in charge of the City of Burlington’s economic development policies and programs. I have a good understanding about what it takes to build a sensible economy. Our book is a handbook for folks willing to work toward that goal,” he said.
“The timing is fortuitous given the start of the Mayor Walsh’s new administration in City Hall. I think Bruce’s work aligns very well with Mayor Walsh’s messages of inclusivity and building a fair, strong local economy,” JP Forum coordinator Greg Buckland told the Gazette last week.
Seifer will speak on Wed., Feb. 5 at 7 pm, at First Church JP, 6 Eliot St. For more information, see jamaicaplainforum.org.
Bruce Seifer. (Courtesy Photo)