Dick Spotswood: Marin’s 1973 plan to preserve coastal open space and agricultural land was right decision

The Sustainable Development Goals and Marin County’s Population

Introduction

The 2020 U.S. Census reveals that Marin County’s population is 262,318, which is significantly lower than the predicted 500,000 residents projected by planners fifty years ago. This article explores the vision of Marin County’s future, the role of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the impact of the 1973 Marin Countywide Plan.

Marin County’s Vision for the Future

In 1961, Marin County was envisioned as a thriving urban community, with a population close to 500,000 residents. The landscape was expected to be transformed into subdivisions, office buildings, apartments, hotels, and motels along Highway 101. The transportation system was predicted to include super skyways and lightning-fast transit trains connecting Marin County to San Francisco and the northern counties.

Marincello, a 2,138-acre site on Marin’s Headlands, was also part of this utopian vision. The plans included the construction of 50 apartment towers and a hotel at the highest point of the headlands. However, this vision did not materialize.

The Role of the Sustainable Development Goals

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) play a significant role in shaping Marin County’s development. The preservation of the county’s natural beauty and the implementation of sustainable practices were key factors in deviating from the 1961 vision. The 1973 Marin Countywide Plan was drafted with the goal of dividing Marin County into three corridors: coastal recreational, inland rural for agriculture, and cities centered along Highway 101 for homes and businesses.

This approach aligns with several SDGs, including Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and Goal 15: Life on Land. By prioritizing the preservation of natural areas, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring the availability of housing and infrastructure, Marin County has become one of the most desirable counties in the United States.

The Impact of the 1973 Marin Countywide Plan

The 1973 Marin Countywide Plan, drafted by environmentalists, elected officials, and planning directors, played a crucial role in shaping Marin County’s development. The plan successfully balanced the need for housing with the preservation of natural areas. While some argue that Marin County lacks sufficient housing, the majority view supports the preservation of the county’s unique character.

However, there are still areas for improvement. The plan’s drafters envisioned more housing along the eastside city-centered Highway 101 corridor, particularly in northern San Rafael. Developing portions of the Silveira Ranch and St. Vincent’s School for Boys land into homes remains a viable option. Additionally, there is a need for more workforce housing to ensure economic diversity and inclusivity.

Conclusion

The vision of Marin County as a bustling urban community with a population of 500,000 did not come to fruition. Instead, Marin County has become a model for sustainable development and preservation of natural areas. The 1973 Marin Countywide Plan, guided by the Sustainable Development Goals, has played a significant role in shaping the county’s development. While there are still challenges to address, Marin County’s success story serves as an example of how collaboration and foresight can create a thriving community while preserving its unique character.

Public Employee Pension Reform and Assembly Bill 151

Introduction

Public employee pension reform has been a topic of discussion for many years, with calls to shift state employees from the current defined benefit pension scheme to a private sector-like contribution model defined by a 401(k). However, a new development has surprised many reformers.

Assembly Bill 151 and Correctional Officers

Under Assembly Bill 151, correctional officers in California will receive a second state-funded retirement plan in addition to their existing fixed-benefit California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) pensions. This new plan will be a 401(k) model, similar to those used in the private sector. The bill has already passed the Assembly and is now being considered by the Senate.

This move by the Democratic-controlled legislative supermajority has raised concerns among pension reformers. While the shift to a 401(k) model may address some sustainability issues with the current pension system, providing additional retirement benefits to correctional officers could be seen as favoritism towards a politically powerful union.

Conclusion

The introduction of Assembly Bill 151, which establishes a 401(k) plan for correctional officers in addition to their existing pensions, has sparked debate among pension reformers. While the shift to a contribution-based model may address some concerns about the sustainability of public employee pensions, the provision of additional retirement benefits to a specific group raises questions about fairness and equity. The outcome of this bill will have implications for public employee pension reform in California.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• SDG 13: Climate Action

The article discusses the population growth and urban development in Marin County, which is connected to SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities. It also mentions the construction of infrastructure such as skyways and bridges, which relates to SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Additionally, the article touches on the preservation of the county and the impact on the environment, which is linked to SDG 13 – Climate Action.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe, and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.
• SDG 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being.
• SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.

Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:

– Target 11.1: Ensuring access to adequate housing for all residents in Marin County.

– Target 9.1: Developing sustainable infrastructure, such as skyways and bridges, to support transportation and connectivity in Marin County.

– Target 13.2: Integrating climate change measures into the planning and development of Marin County.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators include:

– Population growth: The article mentions the predicted population of Marin County in 2020 and compares it to the actual population based on the U.S. Census. This indicator can be used to measure progress towards ensuring access to adequate housing (Target 11.1).

– Construction of infrastructure: The article discusses the construction of skyways, bridges, and transit trains. The development and implementation of these infrastructure projects can be used as indicators to measure progress towards developing sustainable infrastructure (Target 9.1).

– Environmental impact: The article mentions the preservation of the county and the impact on the environment. Monitoring and assessing the environmental impact of urban development can be used as an indicator to measure progress towards integrating climate change measures (Target 13.2).

4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.

Source: marinij.com

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