Lunch with Joe Horwedel

League of Women Voters^®
of San Jose/Santa Clara

SAN JOSE'S GENERAL PLAN - IS IT TIME FOR A CHANGE It is a subject that was much discussed during the recent mayoral election and one in which League, with its commitment to sensible land-use policies, takes particular interest. Won't you join us in February when Joe Horwedel, San Jose's Director of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement, discusses the process and goals of updating the general plan. Joe, with a staff of over 330, is responsible for oversight of all long-range land use planning, building construction review and compliance, and community code enforcement for the City. He brings 23 years of experience, leadership and commitment to outstanding customer service to the role. His sense of humor and willingness to "roll up his sleeves" and work with customers have enabled him to work tirelessly to resolve complex issues with numerous stakeholders. With his guidance, the City has completed some of the most high profile and beneficial development projects in its history including the Silver Creek Country Club development and the redevelopment of the Hitachi campus to add over 2,000 housing units integrated into the Hitachi campus. He has also pioneered efforts to streamline the development process such as creating an approval process in Downtown with extensive public involvement, and Planning Director approvals of all development; lead efforts with the League of Cities on behalf of all cities to rewrite the California Environmental Quality Act to encourage infill smart growth projects, and identified how to use technology in the land use field to better serve the community. Joe lives with his wife, 13-year-old daughter, and cat in San Jose. They enjoy anything Disney, travel and watching Sharks hockey.

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