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Expert to Speak on Sustainable Communities, Creating a Durable Local Economy in Vermont, New York and Beyond

Creating durable local economies will be the focus of a forum at SUNY Plattsburgh 4 p.m., Monday, Dec. 2, in Room 206 of Yokum Lecture Hall.

At that time, Bruce Seifer, co-author of a new book on the subject, will present “Sustainable Communities Creating a Durable Local Economy in Vermont, New York and Beyond.”

He will discuss what a durable economy is, exploring questions like “It is one that not only survives but thrives?” “How is it created?” and “What does it take to sustain over time?”

His book “Sustainable Communities: Creating a Durable Local Economy,” written with Ronda Phillips and Ed Antczak and published by Routledge Press this October, strives to answer these questions.

This book cites Burlington, Vt., and the city's rise to award-winning status, as the authors explore the needed balance of community planning; social enterprise development; energy and environment; food systems; and cultural well-being. Aimed at policymakers, development practitioners, students and citizens, it describes the multiple influences that facilitate the creation of a local and truly sustainable economy.

The authors hope to inspire others by sharing this story of what can be done in the name of community economic development.

About the Authors

Phillips: Community well-being is the focus of Phillips' research and outreach activities. Author/editor of 15 books on community development and related topics, she offers both practice and academic perspectives on the ever-changing topic of community revitalization. Formerly a senior sustainability scientist with the Global Institute of Sustainability and a professor in the School of Community Resources and Development at Arizona State University, Phillips now serves as Purdue University's inaugural dean of the Honors College.

Seifer: Seifer is a consultant with deep experience in economic development. He led the City of Burlington Vermont's Economic Development efforts for three decades, providing technical assistance to 4,000 businesses and numerous non-profits. Bruce frequently speaks at national forums on policy and strategy; city revitalization; and program design and evaluation.

Antczak: After 20 years in business, Antczak joined CEDO's Economic Development Division in 2003 focusing on assisting businesses at all stages of growth, managing a revolving loan fund, and being a member of various development project teams. He currently serves on the steering committees of several national Sustainable Economic Development organizations.

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