For the week of January 21 - 27, 2004

Smart Growth
names director,
new board members

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By GREG STAHL
Express Staff Writer

Citizens for Smart Growth, a community-based, nonprofit advocacy organization that focuses on land use and development issues in Blaine County, appointed Christopher Simms as executive director on Wednesday, Jan. 14.

Christopher Simms is the new executive director of Citizens for Smart Growth. Courtesy photo

 

Simms, an attorney by training who has lived in the Wood River Valley for four years, has been serving as interim director for five months.

According to a press release from the group, his experience with nonprofit organizations, law and dedication to environmental causes make him a natural fit for the group.

"I’m pleased to take the lead of an organization that is working toward a collaborative effort toward growth solutions in the valley," Simms said. "In the coming years, we hope to bring the county and the local municipalities together for a regional planning vision and avoidance of local parochialism."

Transportation issues, living harmoniously with wildlife and working toward a regional planning authority are prominent issues facing Blaine County, he said.

"I think that a regional planning authority is something in the big picture that we all need to be working on," he said. "I think the big picture also needs to look at commuter transit and other transportation options."

At the Jan. 14 meeting, Smart Growth also appointed six more members to its board of directors. According to the press release, the new members add to the governing body’s diversity.

Herb Thomas is from Washington, where he was involved in the agricultural and business communities.

Jean Daily is from Chicago and was previously very active in planning and zoning issues there.

Erik Leidecker is a long-time resident of the Wood River Valley and backcountry guide with Sawtooth Mountain Guides.

Gretchen Wagner works with a local architectural firm.

Doug Werth, former Blaine County Prosecuting Attorney, has a local, private practice.

Ali Long moved to Ketchum in 2000 from the Seattle area and is a conservationist by nature.

According to the group’s press release, Smart Growth is dedicated to preserving Blaine County’s communities, rural charm, air and water quality, open space and wildlife habitat.

 

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