Editor's Column

Helen Sause

Dear Colleagues,

The Chicago Weekend was fantastic!

Les has given a compressive report on our meetings and an overview of the diverse touring experiences that we enjoyed. However, I can't resist commenting on three aspects that will remain with me.

- The Chapter. The deep involvement of the membership and the richness provided by their diverse backgrounds and proffessions added immsearubly to the Weekend. We felt so fortunate to benefit from their dedication and contribution of their time and knowledge of the City and its develpments. At least forty of the chapter members formed this "Weekend Team" with others behind the scenes. Thank you Elys!!!

- Then there was the " man of the hour - Daniel Burnham"!!! The book was terrific success! Having it to reading it in prepraton for the conference was a great gift. The dissussions of Burnham's formative role in city/urban planning and his continuing impact on the field and numerous specific cities were amazing. One particular presentation focused on Chicago and Burham's influence on the city's present physical form. The other was an outstanding panel of speakers from diverse professional backgrounds who discussed the future of city planning including the impact Burnham's on it.

- The final impression was a very unique business called The Christy Webber Landscapes Headquarters. The City of Chicago contracts for maintenance of many of its public spaces. We visited the firm's new building which is a marvel of a Leed building built to work with Chicago's temperature extremes. Of course their maintenance practices are equally ahead of the time; to view examples vist this link by clicking here.

Congratulations Ely! And I am glad such large number of our members showed up to enjoy this Weekend.

On a personal note - the lateness of this KeyNote edition is purely my responsibility. My apologies, some medical issues interfered with my schedule.

Till next time, best

Helen Sause
International LAI Editor
helensause@alamedanet.net

Guest Editorial

Editor's Note: Fires, floods, hurricanes affect community values. So this careful research of the impact of disasters should have broad applicability for all.

Report by Jon Nevin; Indroduction by Alan Nevin, San Diego Chapter

The Impact on Coastal California Home Values by Major Natural Disasters

In October 2007, a major landslide occurred in the Soledad Mountain area of La Jolla. La Jolla is generally ranked as one of the most expensive housing markets in the Nation. The landslide destroyed several homes and caused damage to other homes. More than 60 homeowners in the neighborhood sued the City of San Diego, alleging that their negligence was responsible for the landslide. Recent research indicates that landslides had been a common occurrence in the area beginning almost fifty years ago when the area was first developed. There had been seven landslide incidents in the Mount Soledad area since 1989, though none as serious as the 2007 landslide. The City retained the law firm of Butz Dunn and DeSantis to represent them in the matter. This month (October 2009), Judge Ronald Styn of the San Diego Superior Court ruled that the City was not at fault.

MarketPointe Realty Advisors was retained by Butz Dunn and DeSantis to provide research on the impact of landslides on future valuation of homes. In that research, MarketPointe Realty Advisors explored landslides throughout the state of California and their ultimate effect on valuation. The firm concentrated on landslides in coastal regions of the state.

The basic finding of the research was that coastal homes in areas that had landslides actually increased in value in future years at a higher rate of gain than the market as a whole.

The attached report documents the finding of that research study. The research was conducted by members of the MarketPointe Realty Advisors research team and was primarily researched and written by Jon Nevin.

Alan Nevin, San Diego Chapter

 

In Memoriam

Boston Chapter

Charles Bailey Akerson

I am saddened to tell you of the death of Charles Bailey Akerson on April 23, 2009.  Charlie Akerson was inducted into Lambda Alpha International in 1988 before the Boston chapter was formed and was certainly one of our most distinguished and respected members.  Most active in the appraisal and counseling community, Charlie generously and brilliantly was a role model for several generations in the real estate profession.  He held numerous leadership positions in The Appraisal Institute and The Counselors of Real Estate and was the recipient of numerous awards from both organizations. 
 
 He was prominent as the first chairman in 1989 of the Appraisal Standards Board of The Appraisal Foundation and was president of Union Panamericanna de Asociaciaciones de Valuacion (UPAV) from 1996 to 1998.  Charlie Akerson was a wonderful professional and a dear personal friend to many of us in the chapter and in the Boston real estate community.
 
The family of Charles Bailey Akerson held a memorial service for Charlie on Sunday, June 21st at Old North Church in Boston near where Charlie and his wife Jean resided for several years.  Condolences may be sent to Jean G. Akerson at 99 Norumbega Road, Apartment 119, in Weston, Massachusetts  02493. 
      
Charles Bailey Akerson, age 86, died April 22, 2009.  Charlie was considered the appraiser's appraiser and counselor's counselor of international renown.  Authoring Capitalization Theory and Techniques Study Guide, The Appraiser's Workbook and An Introduction to Mortgage Equity Capitalization, Charlie wrote, thought, taught and talked the new and evolving income approach to valuation.  He was the 1978 President of the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers (predecessor organization to the Appraisal Institute) and 1982 editor of the Appraisal Journal . first chairman in 1989 of the Appraisal Standards Board of the Appraisal Foundation, and President of the Union Panamericana de Asociaciones de Valuacion 1996 to 1998. Charlie received many awards and accolades from his professional and personal service.  He was an accomplished and successful professional and truly epitomized the objectives of Lambda Alpha. 
 
Charlie was a heavyweight.  He earned his way onto everybody's book shelf, into everybody's classroom, and everybody's practice. He was the techie before we knew one and the blazer into the evolution of real estate capitalization theory. He was an usher into the new era of The Appraisal Foundation as first chair of the first Appraisal Standards Board in 1989 and he continue his influence in international valuation standards as president of UPAV from 1996 to 1998. He was passionate and accessible. He is sorely missed.
 
Letters of condolence can be sent to his wife Jean G. Akerson, 99 Norumbega Road, Apartment 119, Weston, Massachusetts  02493.

San Diego Chapter

Larry Ford; SDSU professor expert in urban geography

Larry Ford enjoyed being an urban wanderer. A geographer and college professor, he traveled extensively, exploring the nooks and crannies of cities throughout the world and deciphering the history and significance of details and elements that make up a neighborhood. As a boy in Ohio, he loved surveying Columbus from atop the city's tallest skyscraper. As an author and geography professor at San Diego State University, he promoted a “feet on the ground” approach to urban geography, encouraging students and others to really get to know their cities. Dr. Ford, a nationally known expert on urban development, wrote several books including “Cities and Buildings: Skyscrapers, Skid Rows and Suburbs.” A recent poll of architects and planners ranked him among the world's top 100 urban thinkers.

Dr. Ford died of pancreatic cancer Sept. 17 at Sharp Hospice in Del Cerro. He was 65.

He led hundreds of city and neighborhood walking tours in San Diego both for students and civic organizations and served as a mentor to many. “Larry was very accomplished but very low-key,” said Stuart Aitken, chairman of the SDSU geography department. “He used data and numbers (for his research), but he liked wandering around the city, being a part of it. He loved to experience it . . . hang out at the coffee bars. He had a great capacity for questioning why things were there, and he had these great insights.”

Friend and fellow SDSU professor Allen Hope said Dr. Ford was a visionary with a gift for interpreting urban landscapes. “Most of us walk though a city and see it a certain way. He would look at things from the underbelly,” Hope said. In the early 1970s, Dr. Ford was active with the Save Our Heritage Organisation and the San Diego County Park and Recreation Committee. “He played an important role in preserving Belmont Park,” said friend and colleague Molly McClain. “His work was really important for San Diego history. He mapped the city geographically like no one else has.”

Dr. Ford was active with the American Geographical Society and several other professional organizations. Lawrence Royden Ford was born Dec. 11, 1943, in Enid, Okla., to Rachel Brill and Harry Ford. He grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and received bachelor's and master's degrees in geography from Ohio State University. He earned his doctorate in geography from the University of Oregon in 1970. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Jan.
Dr. Ford was a longtime member and past president of the Association of Pacific Coast Geographers, which is holding its annual conference at the Town & Country Resort and Convention Center in Mission Valley.

A celebration of Dr. Ford's life was held at the Town & Country's Hampton/Sheffield Hall. The association has established a scholarship fund in Dr. Ford's name. Contributions may be made to the Larry Ford Field Work Scholarship in Cultural Geography.

A private memorial was held for family and friends.

By Blanca Gonzalez
Union-Tribune Staff Writer

Harrison Waite III

Harrison Waite III was not a trained architect, but the Del Mar developer had an eye for innovation and came up with a plan to ensure that all homes in his Riviera Del Mar subdivision had a spectacular ocean view. The concept, fairly new at the time and using the idea of theater seating, involved creating house lots on a slope and building only on one side of the street so that all could have a view. “He was an idea guy,” said his wife, Lesley. “He could see how a piece of land could be developed without destroying everything around it.”

Mr. Waite was so proud of the 91-lot project that he and his wife moved into the first unit 40 years ago and still lived there at the time of his death. He died of cancer Aug. 28 at his Del Mar home. He was 86.

Mr. Waite also was involved with the Windemere development in La Jolla and several commercial buildings and custom homes in Rancho Santa Fe, Rancho Bernardo and the Virgin Islands. He was a former president of the Building Contractors Association, chairman of the Land Development Advisory Board for the city of San Diego and a member of several housing- and construction-related organizations.

Mr. Waite, a mechanical engineer who worked on a restoration of Thomas Jefferson's Monticello estate, said he went into real estate because of a home he bought in New Jersey after World War II. In a 1987 interview, Mr. Waite said he and his first wife “bought a home on the GI Bill.”

“There were so many things wrong, I spent a lot of time fixing it up. I figured I could do better building them myself.”
While working for a Charlottesville, Va., builder, Mr. Waite supervised installation of a fire-protection system at Monticello. He took the opportunity to draw a complete set of measurements and details, from which was later produced the first set of plans of the historic mansion.

Mr. Waite moved to Coronado in the late 1950s and worked with American Housing Guild until forming his own company, Marine Builders, in 1966. Architect Dale Naegle, who worked with him on several projects, said Mr. Waite was a respected, outgoing colleague. “His business integrity sustained his many worthy developments,” Naegle said. “Knowing and working with him was always an adventure.”

“He dragged me to the Caribbean to build (homes) on an island ... he built a concrete boat,” Naegle said. “We all had lots of fun floating around on it.”

Friend and attorney Paul Peterson said Mr. Waite was an accomplished sailor and an interesting person. “You don't hear of many concrete yachts,” he said, referring to Mr. Waite's 62-foot ferroconcrete schooner. Longtime friend Ted Young said Mr. Waite was “a gentleman of the old school” who was proud of his Virginia roots. “Everybody liked Harrison Waite. He was very gregarious and fun to be around.”

Harrison Waite III was born Nov. 15, 1922, in Greenwood, Va., to Mary Carrington Waite and Harrison Waite Jr. He served in the Navy on the Monterey during World War II and served in the reserves for 16 years. He graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in mechanical science in 1947. Mr. Waite, an Eagle Scout, also enjoyed tennis and golf. He married the former Elise Griffin, and the couple had three children. They moved to Coronado in 1958 and divorced in the mid-1960s.

Mr. Waite married the former Lesley Bizzotto in 1967.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Waite is survived by his children, Harrison IV of Encinitas, Lelia Cary Resser of San Diego and Mary Carrington “Polly” Smith of Carlsbad; a stepdaughter, Alicia Honn of Napa; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Private family services were held Oct. 18 in Greenwood, Va. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested donations to Boy Scouts of America or San Diego Hospice.

By Blanca Gonzalez
Union-Tribune Staff Writer
2:00 a.m. October 2, 2009

Chapter Corner

Aloha Chapter:

Aloha Chapter welcomed California developer and adjunct professor (UC Berkeley) Steve Chamberlain
who delivered a terrific presentation on the state of the economy from a real estate perspective,
and why the downturn is a long way from over: too much debt coming due over the next months
and years, and no clear plan on how to clear it, even on commercial property which is performing well.

 

Aloha Chapter President Ann Bouslog welcomes new members Lea Hong,
Executive Director, Trust for Public Lands, Hawaii, and, real estate developer;
and Melissa Lum, of the real estate management and development firm of Lum Yip Kee.

 

David Callies, Chapter Scribe

 

Baltimore Chapter:

Greater Baltimore Commercial Real Estate Market Vacancies
Are Near the All-Time High — in 20% Range.
Still One of the Better National Markets in this Economic Downturn

To kick off the Chapter’s fall program, members and guests gathered on September 16, 2009 where they heard this description of Baltimore’s “glass half-full” status from Charm City native and civic leader, Dwight S. Taylor, retired President, Corporate Development Services and COPT Development & Construction Services LLC, and Member of Board of Directors, T Rowe Price Group, Inc.

Taylor suggested that given the continuing lay-offs (Maryland’s jobless rate was 7.3 % compared to the nation’s 9.8% rate), the real negative impact of the market has yet to be felt. This occurs when there is too much space for too few employees shifting the burden to the landlords and the lenders.

According to Taylor, Baltimore City’s office and retail markets are mired in a dynamic of shifting resources rather than significant growth.  New developments such as Harbor East siphon tenants relocating from older ones.  Downtown retail in Baltimore City is dismal, lamented Taylor who rued the absence of retail and mixed use properties along Pratt (the unofficial “Main Street”) that parallels the harbor.  Remarking on his recent experience in Portland, Oregon – a city that size-wise somewhat mirrors Baltimore--he complimented its robust and vibrant shopping which includes several high end and major department stores.  Taylor believes retail can be a catalyst and said about every thriving metropolis has decent downtown shopping; and he has encouraged City leaders to plan for significant retail.

Shifting to the positives, Taylor said the Greater Baltimore area is a beneficiary of the last round of Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC).  In terms of employment, this probably is the greatest single event in the history of Maryland.  The tens of thousands of high-paying jobs will bring major positive impact to the metropolitan area, with the largest direct benefits going to Anne Arundel and Harford Counties, with Howard County a close third.  The number of employees that contractors hire may be two to three times the number of government workers.  While the affected jurisdictions as well as Baltimore City can accommodate the residential activity, they are not well prepared to handle the demand for office space or the traffic challenges.  He claimed the counties’ lack of readiness has been insufficiently recognized and dealt with by the State.  Further, at the local level, the consuming processing of permits and lack of money and available financing is challenging for developers.

When asked about the possible future negative impact on the area when the current defense build up for BRAC declines, Taylor said the defense industry plays to our area’s strengths, with its focus on technology to avert wars.  He feels the role of government won’t go away.  Overall, he believes there are great economic drivers for Baltimore and the surrounding area, and the positives far outweigh the negatives.  He concluded:  “Let’s celebrate them and continue to build on them.”

Chapter President John Murphy thanked Mr. Taylor and announced the speaker for the next noon time program meeting on October 21, 2009:  Mr.Antero Pietila, a native of Finland and former Sun reporter and editorial writer whose career included postings in South Africa and Moscow.  He will discuss his new book about Baltimore’s residential real estate practices: Not in My Neighborhood, How Bigotry Shaped a Great American City.  Mr. Pietila’s website notes, “This all-American tale is told through the prism of Baltimore from its early suburbanization in the 1880s to the consequences of white flight after World War II, and into the first decade of the 21st century.”

The following month in November, seven new members were inducted at the annual meeting at the Center Club in downtown Baltimore.  They include:

George Kleb, Bon Secours of Maryland Foundation
Paul E Lee, Paul E. Lee & Associates
Art Putzel, Trout Daniel & Associates
Kenneth L. Rice, Himmelrich Associates, Inc.
Russ Robertson, Cap Ex Advisory Group
Roger Staiger, SBA, LLC
Jasmin M Torres, Esq., Land Settlements, LLC

Tara Balfe Clifford, Chapter Scribe

 

Boston Chapter:

The Boston Chapter will once again complete the 2009 calendar with its Holiday Lunch and Invitation to 10 New Members in December.

On Tuesday, February 24 at the offices of Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP, Tom Goodwin of DebtX and George Fantini of Fantini & Gorga discussed the real estate capital marketplace. With the annual MBA conference just completed, these leaders in the market provided both a current condition and forecast outlook.

On April 14, David P. Perini, Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Capital and Asset Management (DCAM) spoke to the chapter at lunch at the Union Club, sponsored by Perkins + Will and Peter Norstrand. DCAM is the Commonwealth’s real estate developer and David who has served governors of both parties addressed the shovel-ready challenge of the federal stimulus programs.

On June 16, the Lambda Alpha Harbor Tour was guided by chapter member Lowell Richards, Director of Development for MassPort. The turning of the tides was certainly apparent from the Boston Harbor. The tour included a look at private sector development activity including Russia Wharf and Fan Pier, Building One and other waterfront sites, and development at Logan and other Port properties.

Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge hosted a Market Roundtable Lunch on Tuesday, August 11. Market Updates included: John Kline on the Island Markets; John Fuller on the Design Sector; John Griffin on Entitlement Activity and David Kirk on Multifamily Markets including Affordable Sector.

Edwards Angel Palmer & Dodge sponsored a luncheon meeting October 20th, at which Joseph DiLorenzo of Rock Entertainment (Plymouth Rock Studios) updated the group on Plymouth Rock’s plans for the 240-acre studio complex.

The Chapter thanks PERKINS+WILL and Peter Norstrand for sponsoring our luncheon with Commissioner David Perini in April and Edwards Angel Palmer & Dodge for sponsoring our Roundtable in August and luncheon in October.

The Chapter has confirmed James Rooney Executive Director of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority on February 9, 2010 for a presentation on the expansion of Boston Convention and Exhibition Center and Hynes Convention Center in the Back Bay.

David S. Kirk, Chapter President

Ely Chapter:

And you thought Chicago is best traveled in the spring and summer.....

There are so many great activities happening around town in the next few weeks.  Let's start with Saturday the 21st of November.  Get to the Northwestern vs. Wisconsin football game and then hurry down town for the Festival of Lights ceremony on Michigan Avenue.  Stay for the Bears vs. Eagles Sunday night.  Extend the family plans and visit State Street - That Great Street - Thursday for the Thanksgiving Parade.  And if that's not enough to entice you visit www.chicagoloopalliance.com for holiday specials at hotels, retailers and restaurants.  If you are still yearning for more in Chicago, stick around for the grand opening of the long awaited shopping center on State Street - Block 37.

The Ely Chapter had a great retail panel at the November lunch with 110 attendees.  Those who attended heard Peter Eisenberg from Clark Street Development, Scott Carr from Inland Property Management, Todd Caruso from CBRE and Bob Koys from Westfield discuss the state of the retail environment, the CMBS market, which retailers are active in the Midwest and across the country, what types of deal are being structured and bold predictions for the retail market over the next few years. 
One of our members received a fantastic award earlier in November.  Theodore Swain received the Abel E. Berland Award for Outstanding Service to the Civic Federation.  The full re-print of the press release is below:

The Civic Federation is pleased to announce that long-time Civic Federation Director Theodore M. Swain was awarded the 2009 Abel E. Berland Award for Exemplary and Outstanding Service to the Civic Federation of Chicago at the Federation?s 115th Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 12, 2009.

The Abel E. Berland Award for Exemplary and Outstanding Service to the Civic Federation was established in 2009 to honor Mr. Berland's extraordinary service to the Federation and to recognize members of the Civic Federation Board of Directors for their own exceptional contributions.

Ted Swain, a thirty-year Civic Federation Board member, is the foremost expert on property tax law in Illinois and has a distinguished half-century of extraordinary service to the legal profession, of which he has spent decades in practice at Gould & Ratner LLP. He has also served the public as Judge in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Chief Deputy Assessor for Cook County, and Principal Property Tax Attorney in the Civil Division of the Cook County State's Attorney's office. Ted's greatest achievement at the Civic Federation was as Chairman of the Civic Federation Task Force on Reform of the Cook County Property Tax Appeals Process. The Task Force quarterbacked one of the most influential accomplishments in the Civic Federation's 115-year history: the drafting and enactment between 1994 and 1998 of historic legislation to reform the Cook County assessment appeals process. The law made it easier for taxpayers to successfully appeal incorrect assessments, a major victory for property owners across Cook County.

Abel E. Berland is a thirty-plus year member of the Civic Federation Board of Directors and a past Chairman of the Board. Mr. Berland is an internationally recognized bibliophile and collector of rare manuscripts. He is a distinguished real estate executive and was President of Arthur Rubloff & Co. for many years. It is thanks to Mr. Berland that his friend, Arthur Rubloff, included a very generous endowment of the Civic Federation in his bequests. That endowment has enabled the Civic Federation to continue its valuable work uninterrupted through good economic times and bad.

John F. Ward, Jr., a past Chairman of the Civic Federation, presented the Berland Award to Mr. Swain, saying "On behalf of your fellow Board members, I thank you for your years of service to the residents of Cook County and Illinois and, above all, to the Civic Federation."

September Luncheon:

Taking a break from our year-long exploration of Daniel Burnham, the Ely Chapter's September luncheon focused on the global CMBS meltdown and its impact on the Chicago office market.  On September 16, 2009, more than 100 Ely Chapter members and guests came to hear Charles H. Wurtzebach, Ph.D., The George L. Ruff Visiting Professor in Real Estate Studies at DePaul University.  Dr. Wurtzebach recently completed research on 56 Class A Downtown Chicago office buildings, addressing 
1)  The impact of increasing cap rates on the value of these assets and
2)  The relationship between these estimated values and maturing loan principals.

It was a sobering assessment, but Dr. Wurtzebach noted that we have been through such tough times before.   The Downtown Chicago office market will recover--once we see employment growth again.

To view the powerpoint presentation from the luncheon please visit our web site at www.ely-chicago.org.

Olympics

Many Chicagoans were disappointed to not receive the nomination from the IOC to host the 2016 Olympics.  Now the discussion around town has turned to generating jobs and growth in other ways.  Will Wal-Mart be allowed a 2nd (and perhaps the start) of many more locations?  Will other 'big box' retailers continue their expansion push in the city as well?  What will happen with the site of the proposed Olympic Village?  Will a land based casino and entertainment complex be determined as the highest and best use for the property as a few of the alderman in the City have discussed and proposed?

Allen Joffe, Scribe

George Washington Chapter:

On October 15th, the Chapter held a ceremony and cocktail reception attended by over 100 members and guests to induct a class of 30.  Weschler's Auction House was the setting for the gala evening, and attendees had the opportunity to view a premier collection of antique art and furniture at this Washington institution. 

The chapter's September monthly luncheon featured three principals from the landscape architecture firm of Lee & Papa who described four sustainable projects:  the old convention center site in downtown Washington, Kingman Island in the Anacostia River, Fort Belvoir, Virginia and Magok Waterfront, Seoul, Korea.  Highlights were techniques used to increase permeability and catchment of all storm water runoff for recycling. 

The November 11 Washington Post reported on the front page that Montgomery County, Maryland, a close-in suburb, "redefined the way it will grow in the next two decades when lawmakers endorsed a plan that encourages development where residents can easily live a car-free lifestyle."  This policy was previewed in a spring LAIGW luncheon meeting when the chair of the planning commission told the chapter that his agency, unlike those in other suburbs, would encourage dense, mixed use development in congested areas near transit with an aim of eventually substituting alternative, non-auto means of transportation.

Rosalyn P. Doggett , Chapter Sribe

London Chapter:

Investing in the Indian Real Estate Market
Still too spicy for some?

Sharad Gohil – 10 September 2009

Visions of the Future: the Global Property Market in 2030
By Dr Angus McIntosh, Partner & Head of Research
King Sturge – International Property Consultants.

It is one of the great human delusions that we should like to know what the future holds. Thus it was that suitably delusional Members and their entirely sane guests attended our Lunch on 29th October to hear Dr McIntosh lift the curtain on what is in store for us.

Fortunately, perhaps, Angus was wise enough to tease us only with scenarios. He explained that he is participating in a project sponsored by the RICS Foundation that addresses the future under the title of his talk. The project is not yet completed, and he felt unwilling to reveal the precise level of the IPD Property Index on 1st April 2030; rather, he thought it better to discuss some of the key issues that might drive that figure. He identified six such drivers:

Demographics. During the period under consideration, the global population would continue to grow, perhaps nearing a peak of 10 billion. The numbers alone will put enormous strains on the Earth’s resources, particularly of food and, as one questioner made clear, water. The rate of growth would, in itself, be significant, but so also would its distribution; would the areas of high growth also produce the ideas that would help them manage the strains they would feel; there are grounds for pessimism.

Economics. Would governments follow, and would their populations allow them to follow, policies that would reduce economic inequalities? If they did not, there would be increasing risk that excluded peoples would, under the pressures they would experience, revert to various forms of obscurantism, not least religious extremism.

Governance. The principles of governance followed would be a decisive factor. For all its weaknesses, the European Union is, conceptually, highly enlightened, seeking to follow a broadly inclusive ethos; compare that with the ‘gated’ and protectionist ethos in most parts of the World.

Environment & ecology. We are all only too aware of Climate Change. Whether or not governments can bring the issue under control, changes will occur that will be highly disruptive to current patterns of, particularly agriculture. These may or may not increase the tendency towards food shortages, but they will certainly complicate solutions. Under this head, Angus included the effects of pandemics in congested and mobile populations.

Technology. Potentially more positive, the pace of technological change continues to accelerate; by 2030 we shall have at our fingertips technologies that we do not presently dream of – he particularly drew out bio-technology and drugs. Will these inventions be divisive or inclusive?

Information. Information is growing very rapidly; because of the internet, its distribution can be seen as ‘flat’. It can be accessed by anyone from anywhere.

Using these ideas, Angus sketched three scenarios for each of Europe, Asia, America and the World:

EUROPEAN SCENARIOS
Bastion: Depression; Oil and resource collapse, social inequality, rising violence – cities like fortresses.
Web: The triumph of global corporations, economic success, but sustainability only a buzz word – urban sprawl, housing inequality, gated communities
Zion: Carbon neutral, high quality of life, equality under the law, culture and recreation dominate

ASIAN SCENARIOS
Orient Express: China dominates; Australia and New Zealand sustainable expert; India faces corruption; Infrastructure problems
United States of Asia: Mass urbanisation; Social unrest; Piracy of things and intellectual property is rife; only Singapore and Hong Kong lead the sustainable agenda
Broken promises: Increasing complex social problems in China and India, only Australia and New Zealand have clean technology; City planning in disarray and sustainability for many (in smog filled cities) very low priority
NORTH AMERICA SCENARIOS
Happy in the dark: Major worry over energy shortages and its repercussions on the whole of American society
Oil & Vinegar: There is a retreat behind borders and buildings.  Social inequality & migration a major problem - political tension is rife,
Micro fanaticism:  At a local level sustainable leadership dominates society and drives national governments.
GLOBAL SCENARIOS
Free trade and technology
VERSUS
Unrest and unequal societies, hence social tension - perhaps with religious fundamentalism
VERSUS
Knowledge, social values and a high quality of life.  A sustainable future.

Because of the profundity of the issues raised by Angus, I have allowed my notes to be more extensive than usual. Whilst many of the points would have been in our consciousness already, to hear them drawn together so coherently was a privilege for us, and gave them perspective.

Next scheduled meeting of the London Chapter

10th December 2009:       
London Chapter luncheon meetings are held on Thursdays, usually. Members gather together starting at 12.15 PM. The meeting commences at 12.45 PM and usually ends by 14.30 PM. Members may reserve by contacting the Chapter Secretary. Future London Chapter events for 2009 are listed online at the luncheon meetings page.

Glasgow, Scotland with Style?

Join us June 1st thru 4th, 2011 for the LAI Scottish Spring Land Economics Weekend. Click here to view a presentation and video.
The London Chapter, founded in 1992, is the first chapter of Lambda Alpha International established "across the Pond".
Lambda Alpha International (LAI) is the honorary land economics society formed originally in 1930 as a fraternity by students and professors at Northwestern University (Evanston, Illinois) who sought to continue the teachings and philosophy of Dr. Richard T. Ely, considered to be the Father of Land Economics.
Today, almost 8 decades later, men and women in 21 LAI chapters around the world celebrate the history and traditions of this esteemed inter-disciplinary professional honorary society.

The London Chapter wishes to announce the release of our new web-log, to keep members informed of the very latest news and events relating to land economics and usage. The London Chapter is available at: londonlai.blogspot.com.Commentaries include: •   an update on a proposed Ireland Chapter for LAI •   several excellent commentaries and speaker reviews by our esteemed Scribe, Michael Mallinson •   highlights of the Phoenix and Toronto Land Economics Weekends •   commentary by our London Chapter President,Karen Sieracki: Outlook for Global Property 2008 -- A Good Country for Old Men before the Investment Property Forum/Society of Property Researchers' Event (March 2008)

London Chapter Luncheons are held at
The Royal Thames Yacht Club
60 Knightsbridge
London SW1X 7LF UK

Tel: 44 0207 235 2121

Minnesota Chapter:

LEW Weekend May 13-15, 2010

We’ll kick off the LEW on Thursday with a reception at Windows on Minnesota, located on the fiftieth floor of the magnificent IDS Center—a 1970s icon by architect Phillip Johnson. The panoramic vistas offer an overview of some of the sites we will be seeing in the next two days. 

The elegant Bank Restaurant in the Westin Hotel, where the conference will be based.

Friday morning starts with continental breakfast at the Westin Hotel’s Bank Restaurant, a recent repurposing of a stunning 1940s banking hall. The LEW will be based in this hotel, situated in the heart of Minneapolis’s downtown financial district and less than a block from the Nicollet Mall, a renowned retail corridor. Our first session will be at the Guthrie Theater, a recent creation of Parisian “starchitect” Jean Nouvel. Our panel will provide an introduction to the geography, history, politics, and governance of the Twin Cities. Speakers will include the chair of the Metropolitan Council and other community leaders.

We'll be checking out Saint Paul's riverfront redevelopment on a river cruise.

After a tour of the revitalized Mississippi riverfront that edges downtown, we’ll head to Target Field, the new Twins ballpark, which opens in April 2010. In the glass-walled Metropolitan Club overlooking the field and the downtown skyline, we will enjoy lunch and hear about the development of the facility and the multimodal transit that is incorporated into its design. Congressman Jim Oberstar has been invited to discuss his vision for a new framework for federal transportation policy and investment. We will also discuss Minneapolis planning opportunities and challenges today and in the future.

One session will be in Target Field, the new home of the Minnesota Twins.

We will then focus on Saint Paul with its plans to capitalize on the imminent construction of the Central Corridor light-rail line between the two downtowns to stimulate new development. Our bus will pass through the University of Minnesota campus en route to an overview tour of downtown Saint Paul, where we will drive by the theater where Garrison Keillor produces the “Prairie Home Companion” show. Across the river on Harriet Island, we will board a boat for a dinner cruise and tour on the Mississippi. Heading back to the hotel, we will drive down Saint Paul’s famed Summit Avenue, which is lined with mansions and rich with associations with F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Saturday starts with a tour of the Chain of Lakes, part of Minneapolis’s nineteenth-century park system that served as the armature for the city’s growth. We will stop at an important commercial node in Edina, a prosperous first-ring suburb that has creatively addressed teardowns in the adjacent historic Country Club residential district. Edina is also home to Southdale, the country’s first enclosed shopping mall. We will tour some of the redevelopment around the mall as the city adapts to changing demographics and needs.

A short drive will bring us to the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, with more than 1,000 acres of formal gardens, specimen plantings, and natural areas. Experimental programs at the arboretum have produced varieties of apples (most famously, the Honeycrisp), grapes, and other plants that thrive in northern climates. Over lunch, our speakers will highlight these innovative programs.

On the way back to Minneapolis, we will stop at Excelsior and Grand, a new urbanism development in the inner-ring suburb of Saint Louis Park, before heading to the inner-city Midtown Exchange project. Originally built as a Sears store and wholesale warehouse, a recent rehabilitation converted this abandoned, one-million square-foot structure into offices, apartments, condominiums, and the unique retail “Global Market.”

The day would not be complete without a cocktail reception. After a break at the hotel, we will head to the offices of RSP Architects in the renovated Grain Belt Brewhouse for hors d’oeuvres and a tour of this remarkable building, which sat vacant for a quarter of a century before its stunning transformation.

And after that—we hope that you will stay in town and do some exploring on your own!

Charlene Roise, Chapter Scribe

Phoenix Chapter:

ARIZONA FALL REAL ESTATE SEMINAR – JANET YELLEN’S VIEW OF THE ECONOMY AND PROPERTY MARKETS

Janet L.Yellen, President and CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco spoke to a standing room only crowd at Lambda Alpha Arizona’ Fall Seminar on November 10th.

Yellen’s talk displayed optimism, tempered by caution.  The recent upturn in the economy is a major turn, not a “flash in the pan’, Yellen stated.  Expansion is occurring in a diversity of areas, including housing (increased  25% per annum in 3rd quarter), consumer spending, industrial production and foreign trade, with the 3rd quarter showing 3.5% growth in real GDP.  Factors which will fuel continued growth include a better functioning financial system, low mortgage interest rates, rising stock market and stabilization of house prices. 

On the other hand, Yellen stated that the strength and durability of the expansion is in question.  Some say the rebound lacks staying power, believing it is a short term increase in sales and inventory investment, responsive only to temporary government stimulus programs.  While financing markets have eased in some areas, many financial institutions still suffer from bad loans.  Household consumer debt remains too high, which when coupled with lower asset values (houses, stock portfolios), threatens the outlook for consumer spending.  This recovery so far is jobless, with the 10.2 % unemployment rate being the highest since 1983.

When viewing negative economic factors, Yellen stressed that perspective must be kept in mind. We are emerging from the worst downturn since the Great Depression, with a 3.5% drop in economic output and over 7 million non-farm jobs lost since the end of 2007.  Few if any economic sectors were unscathed.  Metro Phoenix was hit especially hard, due to above average construction related employment.  Between May 2007 to Septmber 2009, Phoenix’s unemployment rate rose from 2.9% to 8.5%.

Another depression was avoided and seeds for the recent economic rebound planted through aggressive intervention by central banks and governments worldwide.  Monetary actions included lowering the U.S. Federal Funds rate to a range of 0-.25%, followed by unconventional programs geared at restoring credit to households and businesses.  Measures taken to combat the near seizure of credit markets included direct lending to banks (including investment banks), increasing the flow of credit for securities backed by small business loans, consumer loans  and businesses (commercial paper markets) and large scale purchases of agency sponsored mortgage backed securities. The Fed has also bought long term U.S. Treasury bonds to help reduce private borrowing rates.
 
These initiatives have eased financial stress and strengthened investor expectations, allowing improved household worth through rising stock portfolios, and noticeable improvement in rates and liquidity for corporate bonds as well as short term corporate funding.

Fiscal intervention has contributed to the rebound.  The impact of the fiscal stimulus program has only partially been felt, as much of the investment dollars have not yet been spent.  Normal business cycle dynamics are returning.  Spending to replace or upgrade, and inventory replenishment are occurring. 
However, enormous slack exists in the economy, which can be a drag on growth.  This slack consists of idle factories, offices, stores and high numbers of unemployed. A strong economic rebound is needed to absorb the economic slack. 

Yellen, however, predicts a less than robust recovery.  Strong private demand must replace the short term demand caused by public stimulus programs.   Banks’ loan losses are increasing, causing tightened credit, especially for small business. Consumers, who have led us out of previous recessions, are unlikely to return to free-spending ways.   Yellen speculates that we may be witnessing the start of a new era of consumer deleveraging, not just in the U.S., but also in other countries that experienced similar housing booms.  The U.S. personal savings rate has risen from 1% in 2008 to a 4% average this year.  Consumer spending is also limited by flat wage growth and high unemployment and underemployment.  The 1.25% increase in wages seen over the past year is the smallest increase in the history of the series.  Tight credit and reduced consumer spending are likely to slow the rate of business expansion.

Regarding real estate markets, Yellen called the outlook for residential uncertain, which is much better than the prospect for commercial real estate.  National housing prices have experienced about a 30% collapse since the peak three years ago.  Prices now are approaching balance with fundamentals indicated by underlying rental values, which is essential to a sustained housing recovery. Real gains in residential housing should contribute to economic recovery.  The contribution may be tempered due to the temporary stimulus of the homebuyer tax credit and the impact of loan modification and foreclosure moratoriums, which reduced distressed sales.  High unemployment and tight credit also will dampen housing demand.  No revival of the private mortgage backed credit market is seen yet.

Arizona and Metro Phoenix experienced spectacular home price appreciation, which exceeded levels suggested by population and employment growth.   The housing bust was exacerbated by a high proportion of subprime loans.  As a result, prices declined at a rate equal to 3 times the national rate, by as much as 50%, with home prices today at 2001 levels.  Existing home sales are currently rising, although much of the activity is composed of foreclosure sales.  Phoenix home prices are now above their lows, and 2009 is predicted to be the trough for permits. 

However, Yellen believes the Phoenix housing market is nowhere near a return to health, due to rising foreclosures (3 times the national average), with prime borrowers composing the majority of foreclosures.  Developers and banks are sitting with excess land, including raw dirt, partially improved lots and finished lots.  As write-offs of loans on these assets occurs, Yellen predicts stress and more failures of community and regional banks.

Commercial real estate’s woes will lag residential’s.  Problems stem from demand issues, borne of the recession and credit crunch, rather than the overbuilding and lax lending that burst the housing bubble.  But, like housing, values outstripped levels indicated by fundamental demand for space.  Office values doubled from the end of 2001 to the peak, and have dropped an estimated 35-40%.  Vacancies are rising for all income producing properties.   Risk premiums, seen in property capitalization rates, remain high, having doubled over the past two years to more than 4% above 10 year Treasury bond yields.  The commercial mortgage backed securities (“CMBS) market remains deeply distressed, despite the Fed’s Term Asset Backed Loan Facility (TALF) and the Treasury’s Public-Private Investment Program (PPIP).  Tight credit, higher cap rates and weakening property operating income lead to further drops in property values.

Commercial real estate loan delinquencies are rising, with CMBS delinquency rates at over 3% in July 2009 versus ½% in August 2008.  Commercial real estate composes an above average share of Arizona’s bank’s loan portfolios.   Many banks area asking for borrowers to repay loans, provide more equity or agree to modified terms.  Federal regulators have recently issued guidance to banks and thrifts on sound practices for loan workouts. 

Commercial real estate nationally will be a drag on the economic recovery.  Combined with a muted outlook for housing and consumer spending leads Yellen to predict a gradual recovery, more prone to shocks, which she likened to an “L” shape with a gradual upward tilt of the base. 

On inflation, Yellen believes that economic slack and downward wage pressure make deflation a greater risk than inflation due to budget deficits.  Today, inflation is below the optimum level considered by the Federal Open Markets Committee.  Yellen stated that “as for the Fed, you can be 100% certain that price stability will remain our objective, regardless of fiscal policy”.    Interest rates will remain low for some time to come, and will be increased when warranted, as indicated by the Fed’s dual goals of full employment and price stability. She stated that deficits can be harmful once a solid recovery occurs, as they cause increased interest rates and crowd out private investment.  Deficits greater than GDP are a problem, and the current federal deficit is a grave problem, but it is less so in the current stage of the economic cycle. 

In response to a question on how bad commercial real estate debt will be flushed out, Yellen indicated the desire to avoid being the “regulator from hell”.  RTC 2 is not a favored path by the FDIC.  The Fed desires a reasonable path, whereby dealing with bad loans does not unduly force bank failures.  However, they are also being carful not to allow banks to forbear unnecessarily.

When asked for an answer on the “elephant in the room”, i.e., maturing commercial real estate debt, Yellen did not see a clear solution.

Cynthia A. Hammond, Chapter Scribe

Holiday Party

This year our Holiday Party and Induction Ceremony will be held December 16, 2009 from 6pm to 8pm at Su Vino Winery.  More information soon.

Sheila Hamilton , Chapter Secretary

San Diego Chapter:

LAI San Diego’s October luncheon found LAI members touring the NTC Promenade, the civic, arts, and cultural district at Liberty Station, the former Naval Training Center (NTC).  LAI Member Pam Hamilton Lester, President & CEO, and Alan Ziter, Executive Director, of the NTC Foundation highlighted the scope of rehabilitation achieved to date, the existing tenancies, and the building inventory programmed for future rehabilitation and tenanting.

As background, Liberty Station is the successful adaptive re-use of the former Naval Training Center base as a mixed-use development accommodating housing, offices, shops and services, education, arts and culture, and recreational uses.  In July 1993, under terms of the Base Closure and Realignment Act of 1990, the U.S. Navy announced its intentions to close the 500-plus-acre Naval Training Center (NTC) near San Diego Airport.  The Navy closed the base for active military use in April 1997.

From 1994 to 1996, the City of San Diego, in close cooperation with the community, developed and adopted a Reuse Plan for NTC.  In June 1999, the City selected the Corky McMillin Companies as master developer and subsequently entered into a Disposition and Development Agreement one year later.

The McMillin Companies renamed the base “Liberty Station” and built 350 houses and condominiums, new office buildings, and the High Tech charter high school.  As part of the redevelopment, the Corky McMillin Companies leased property to developer C.W. Clark to redevelop portions of the historic core into the Liberty Station Marketplace anchored by Vons and Trader Joe’s.

As required by the Disposition and Development Agreement, in 2000, the Corky McMillin Companies created the NTC Foundation, an independent non-profit responsible for the rehabilitation and operation of the civic, arts, and cultural center.  In March 2007, the Foundation completed Phase 1 of the restoration and adaptation, consisting of six historic buildings containing approximately 110,000 SF.  The total budget exceeded $26.2 million and was funded by a private donor contribution, Redevelopment Agency financial assistance, tax credit, and conventional financing.  Phase 1 of the development, the NTC Promenade, currently houses over 25 organizations including the San Diego Watercolor Society, the Jean Isaacs San Diego Dance Theater, and the San Diego Ballet.

In June 2009, the foundation completed the rehabilitation of Barracks 19, one of the original NTC buildings constructed in 1923, which houses artists, designers, and artisan retailers.

Tracy Morgan Hollingworth , Chapter Administrator

Simcoe Chapter:

Emeritus Nominations
The Simcoe Chapter at its meeting on September 9, 2009 passed a resolution nominating the following individuals: Milt Farrow; Rover Jarvis; Stan Heidman; Edward Levy; Ian Macdonald; Bruce McLaughlin; Virginia Solomon; Donald Taylor for Emeritus status.

Vancouver Chapter:

LAMBDA ALPHA VANCOUVER CELEBRATES ITS FIRST 20 YEARS

The Lambda Alpha Vancouver Chapter was established in February 1989 by Phil Boname, then (as now) principal of Urbanics Consultants, Professor Philip White of the UBC School of Commerce (now the Sauder School of Business) and Professor Peter Oberlander of the UBC School of Community and Regional Planning.  At the urging of Don Pehrson, then President of LAI International, these three members at large convened an initial group of 26 respected academics and practitioners to form the nucleus of the new chapter.

The 89ers
The founding members of the Lambda Alpha Vancouver Chapter.  Rear, from the left: 
Terry Partington, Robin Cordwell, Phil Boname, John D’Eath, David Gillanders, Nick Blom, Michael Audain,
Michael Goldberg and Jim Whitehead.  In front: Anne Bancroft-Jones (Immediate Past President)
Jim Cox, (current President) and Christina Wong (Administrative Assistant).

On November 18, 2009, LAI Vancouver held a special dinner meeting to commemorate its 20th anniversary.  After a champagne toast and a cake iced with the Lambda Alpha logo, the Chapter heard from three of the original 26 members with their views on how Vancouver had changed in the last 20 years.

Vancouver Chapter Past Presidents
From the left: David Greenwood, Phil Boname, John D’Eathe, David Gillanders, Howie Charters, Ken Cameron,
Anne Bancroft-Jones, Russ Anthony and Jim Cox (Current President).

Michael Goldberg, Professor and Dean Emeritus of the Sauder School, spoke about Vancouver from an international perspective.  He noted that Vancouver had been an international city focused on the Asia Pacific region from its very beginnings as the Pacific tidewater terminus for the Canadian Pacific Railway, and it has had significant Asian connections and representation in its population from its inception.  The last two decades have seen dramatic progress in Vancouver’s position in a global economy that has become an urban economy, with Vancouver regularly listed among the most livable cities in the world and positioned well up in any list of the top 100 cities in a global context.  Goldberg listed some of the strengths and achievements pursued by Vancouver to build upon its spectacular natural setting, including the development of its port and airport facilities as key components of North America’s Pacific transportation systems, and its ability to develop intellectual capital through excellent educational institutions and to export intangibles such as architectural and engineering services.  Among the issues to be addressed, Goldberg listed the fragmented local government structure, the lack of a regional economic strategy, inappropriate planning responses to economic opportunities created by new transportation facilities and growing congestion.  In going forward, Goldberg said Vancouver cannot afford to be smug but must work for its future by developing stronger regional strategies and leadership drawing on both the public and the private sectors, better planning to integrate transportation and land use policies for higher densities and the development of more social spaces.

Distinguished Panel
From the left: Phil Boname, Michael Audain, Ken Cameron (Moderator) and Michael Goldberg

The second “’89er” was Michael Audain, Chairman of Polygon Homes Ltd, one of British Columbia’s largest homebuilders, focusing on social and cultural aspects of Vancouver’s development.  For him, the last 20 years had seen four key changes:

• The Asian fact, which has had a strong and positive impact on the city’s economic and social fabric, bringing in capital and incomes and strongly influencing the value placed on education.  In response to this influence, Polygon is building fewer one-bedroom units, designing developments that recognize that Asian households are inter-generational and tolerant of children growing up in apartments, and providing the company’s services in Asian languages in addition to English.
• The Internet, which was not in general business use in 1988, let alone at home or the club or the beach.  It is debatable whether the web brings people closer together through social networking or produces alienation by reducing opportunities for more conventional human contact, but it has certainly made businesses more productive and may even have reduced commuter traffic due to the reduced need to travel to a workplace to do business.
• The Suburbanization of Arts and Culture.  The City of Vancouver proper has made relatively little progress in developing cultural infrastructure, particularly a new art gallery for the collection which is currently housed in a retired courthouse or a new home for the symphony, which is in a converted cinema.  In contrast, suburban municipalities have developed significant new cultural offerings with local community and political support.  An example is the City of Port Moody, which brands itself as “the City of the Arts.”
• Sustainability.  Audain speculated as to whether the increased emphasis on sustainability is a trend or part of a biological adaption to climate change.  Either way, it is a powerful and growing force in Vancouver, as evidenced by the dedication of a lane on the Burrard Street Bridge to cyclists, the planting of vegetable gardens at City Hall and Polygon’s own programs to encourage employees to use more sustainable modes of transport to work.  This is not perhaps surprising in the city that is home to Greenpeace and David Suzuki, and it lends force to longstanding good ideas such as higher densities and parking policies that make economic as well as environmental sense.

Phil Boname’s presentation dealt with the economic and real estate development dimensions of the last two decades, which lie between the bookends of the Expo 86 World’s Fair and the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, as a time when Vancouver emerged as a truly cosmopolitan city.  He noted that the two cities that regularly rank with Vancouver in the top three most livable cities in the world are Geneva and Zurich, which are both significantly smaller in population than Vancouver; there are few if any examples where a city has grown past the 1.5 to 2 million range and still retained a high level of livability and environmental quality as Vancouver has.  The big picture changes are:

• The transition from a resource-based economy to a diversified service economy based on the clean tourism and knowledge sectors, with virtually no manufacturing;
• The attainment of a high quality of life, with accompanying high costs of living, housing costs and land costs; and
• The transition to an Asian city in many aspects including productivity, where British Columbia now ranks 34th in productivity among the states and provinces of North America.

The combined forces of rapid global population growth and rapid urbanization have created a world of cities in which Canada is one of the least densely settled countries.  The reunification of Hong Kong with Mainland China in 1997 produced a wave of immigration to Canada, mostly to Vancouver, necessitating the development of new housing stock at higher densities, particularly in suburban regional town centre areas.  This coincided with the eclipse of downtown Vancouver as a business centre due to the loss of a number of corporate head offices and its re-emergence as a centre for higher education, English language training and tourism, albeit with a weaker corporate base for the support of arts and culture.

In relation to trade and economic development, Boname noted that the value of goods and services shipped crossing the Pacific exceeded the value crossing the Atlantic in 1985, stimulating the development of Vancouver’s port, airport and land transportation facilities.  New economic strengths included tourism development, digital media, private education and high technology energy systems.

Boname concluded with four things that did not occur in the past 20 years but would have been beneficial:

• A comprehensive review and reform of the regional governance structure for Greater Vancouver;
• A long-term human settlement plan for the province of British Columbia;
• A review and revision of the public school curriculum to include ethical business principles and to de-stigmatize concepts such as “urban development,” “investment” and “profit;”
• A move away from British Columbia’s highly polarized democracy towards more moderate and collaborative approaches to politics and governance.

Reflecting on the evening, one could discern some important recurring themes:

• An Asian city (and a good thing too) that is recognized globally and fully engaged economically and culturally with the dynamic Asia Pacific region;
• A livable city that honours its natural environment;
• A city that needs to pay attention to governance, leadership, arts and culture and smart planning if it is to retain and build further on its reputation.

One can reasonably expect that the 40th anniversary celebration in 2029 will be able to reflect on an even more impressive chapter in the development of the Vancouver we who live here love so much.

Ken Cameron, FCIP, Acting Scribe
Photos courtesy of Bob Laurie

The New Mexico Zia Chapter of Lambda Alpha International inducted officers and directors for 2009-10 and new members at its Annual Meeting on September 23, 2009.
 
Officers and Directors are Richard Czoski, President; Tom Mills, Immediate Past President; Jack Hiatt, Vice-President Programs and Events; Phyllis Taylor, Vice-President for Membership; Anne Honstein, Treasurer; Moo Thorpe, Secretary; and Kim Murphy, Director At Large.
 
New members are: Dale Dekker, Bob Feinberg, Alexis Greer, Michael Halsey, Arturo "Art" Jaramillo, Gregg Robinson, Linda Tigges, Joseph Quintana and Pat Vanderpool.
 
Also, our guest speaker was State Representative Brian Egolf.  He discussed legislation he successfully sponsored in the 2009 legislative session that permits counties to create solar energy improvement special assessments.  The Act permits single family home owners to finance solar energy improvements to their homes through voluntary property tax assessments which can be used to secure or repay loans from either public or private sources.  Santa Fe County is now moving to become the first county to implement this new legislation.  

In November, the Zia Chapter intends to have its bi-monthly Chapter meeting in Las Cruces, NM to build visibility in the southern part of our state, where we have a few members.  The event is still in the planning stage, but we have received a request from the El Paso, TX Chapter of LAI to be included.  This is part of our plan to increase visibility and membership of the Zia Chapter by co-sponsoring events in different places.
 
Finally, we have established a Santa Fe LEW Planning Committee to plan for the October 21-23, 2010 LEW.  Tom Mills and Jack Hiatt are the Co-Chairs.  We have been in touch with Steven Gragg of the Phoenix Chapter to benefit from his experience organizing the Phoenix LEW.  This promises to be a great program!

Anita Martinez, Chapter Administrator

Land Economics Foundation (LEF)

LEF Grant Program   

Ron Buss, LEF Vice President

Announcements

Administration Matters!

Attention LAI Members! Forgot how to login? No Problem 
Please visit the LAI Website at www.LAI.org. On the left hand side click on the Members Only Tab. Here you will need to use your email and the password is lai.

New LAI Brochures Available!
Please contact LAI@LAI.org to order the New Brochures.

Just A Reminder
Have you visited the Store page on the LAI Website?
Think Holiday or Speaker Gifts!
Please visit the direct URL: http://www.lai.org/go/store/

Save the Date ! ! !

Minneapolis, Minnesota, Spring Land Economics Weekend
May 13-15, 2010
The Westin, Minneapolis, MN
Hotel Reservations Rates:
*$119.00US + taxes Single/Double
Phone: 1-888-627-8343
Watch for more information in the coming months!

Future Land Economics Weekends (Subject to Change)

2010
Fall: New Mexico, Zia Chapter, October 21-23, 2010

2011
Spring: Scotland, June 1-4, 2011
Fall: TBD

New Members

Atlanta
Michael Grella, PriceWaterhouseCoopers LLP

Boston
Paul Baccari, Murtha Cullina LLP
Patricia Baumer, Greater Boston Real Estate Board
John Bowman, Crosswhite Property Advisors
John Cissel, Cornerstone Advisory Services, LLC
Tom Goodwin, The Debt Exchange
Dan Moon, Environmental Business Council of New England
Mark Murphy, Wulsin Murphy LLP
Walter Pennell, Hunneman Appraisal and Consulting Company
Peter Smith, Peter Smith Associates
Chris Vericker, Middlesex Savings Bank

George Washington
Stephen T. Ayers, Acting Arch of the Capitol
David H. Bennett, Sr. Assoc EDAW/AECOM
Lu Ann L. Bennett, Real Estate Services, Bennett Group
Charles Bergen, Architect
Marilyn S. Burroughs, Interior Architecture
John V. Cogbill, III, Attorney, McGuire Woods
Peter R. Crowley, President, Land Design
Andres Domeyko, Civil Engineer/ President, Eisenhower Partnership of Alexandria
Jeffrey C. Farner, Deputy Director for Urban Design, City of Alexandria
Hany Hassan, Managing Partner, Beyer Blinder Belle
Marsha Kaiser, Parsons Brinckerhoff
Barney Krucoff, Planner/GIS Manager/ Office of Chief Tech. Officer, DC
ElChino Martin, Attorney, Arent Fox
Elizabeth Miller, Senior Urban Planner/Designer, NCPC
Karl Moritz, Dep. Dir. For Long Range and Strategic Planning, Alexandria
Christopher Morrison, Architect - Cunningham Quill
Alvin J. Nichols, Nichols Creative Solutions -- real estate and strategic planning
Nyambi A. Nyambi, Chief Technology Officer/ DC Office of Zoning
Elizabeth Price, President, NOMA Bid
Mary Ramsey, Civil Engineer/ President, Wiles Mensch Corporation
Charlie Richman, Geographer, DC office of Planning
Steven G. Shapiro, Project Manager, Whiting Turner Company
John Simeon, Consultant, Urban Development JBG Companies
Sharon K. Suarez, Housing Policy Analyst
John Totushek, Mgr. Dir. Jones Lang Lasalle
Daniel B. Van Pelt, Principal, Gorove Slade
Adam Volanth, Civil Engineer/Branch Manager, Bohler Engineering
Gwen Wright, Chief, Development Div. City of Alexandria

Golden Gate
Charles Dilworth, STUDIOS Architecture
Adam Engelskirchen, The Presidio Trust
Mike Ghielmetti, Signature Properties, Inc.
Elizabeth Hearle, Jones Lang LaSalle
Jennifer L. Hernandez, Holland & Knight
Anne Hoffman, Chamberlin Associates
Michael B. Jameson, Prudential Mortgage Capital Company
Robert J. LaLanne, The LaLanne Group
Jeremy Madsen, Greenbelt Alliance
Mary McCue, MJM Management Group
Simin Naaseh, FORELL/ELSESSER ENGINEERS, INC.
Jonathan Rivin, Dudnick, Detwiler, Rivin & Stikker LLP
Daniel J. Safier, The Prado Group, Inc.
Jaclyn B. Safier, Prometheus Real Estate Group, Inc.
Simon W.R. Snellgrove, San Francisco Waterfront Partners, LLC
Dianne J. Spaulding, Non-Profit Housing Association of Northern California
Meg Spriggs, Avalon Bay Communities
Rick Swig, RSBA & Associates
Jennifer Wolch, Dean and William W. Wurster Professor, of City & Regional Planning, College of Environmental Design, University of California, Berkeley

Ireland
Mr. Bertie Ahern
Mr. Christopher Carvill
Ms. Brenda Fraser
Mr. Martin Haran
Mr. Liam O’Hagan
Dr. Gerard O’Hare
Lord Rogan
Mr. Frank Ward

London
Brett Algre-Wood, Chairman, YPC Group Holdings

Orange County
Dan Carlsson, Carlsson Public Relations

Simcoe
Michael H.D. Bowman, Partner, Osler, Hoskins & Harcourt LLP
Mark L. Conway, Partner, N. Barry Lyon Consultants Limited
Stephen H. Diamond, President, Diamondcorp
Iain S. Dobson, Founding Partner, Real Estate Search Corporation
John S. Doherty, Waterloo Region Managing Partner, Gowling Lafleur Henderson, LLP
Ronald P. Glenn, Director of Planning Services & Chief Planning Official, Halton Region
James Hawkey
Michael Melling, Partner, Davies Howe Partners
Eric J. Miller, Director, Cities Centre, University of Toronto
James E. Russell, Broker, Partner, Lennard Commercial Realty, Brokerage
Peter F. Smith, Partner, Bousfields Inc.
Michael D. Spaziani, Principal, Michael Spaziani Architect Inc.
Elisabeth Stroback