Liza Welsh Email & Phone Number

Coordinates the development and implementation of sustainability and carbon emissions reduction initiatives for the Burning Man Event and on our Northern Nevada properties. Facilitates strategic planning and project execution by interdepartmental working groups. Defines standard operating procedures and authors project documents. Creates and implements project tracking systems using Google Suite, Asana, and Slack. Co-creates and tracks a multimillion-dollar budget and completes in-depth financial analysis projects. Prepares reports and presentations for our donors, organization, leadership, and community.

Planning coordinator for Gerlach Real Estate and The 360 initiatives focusing on land use planning and construction project management for Burning Man Project's Northern Nevada properties. Key responsibilities included drafting project documents and organizing project artifacts, reviewing and editing permit applications, tracking project progress using Asana, coordinating with Government Affairs and consultants on permitting and regulatory compliance questions, financial analysis and budget tracking, and providing general administrative support for the GM Gerlach Real Estate.

Various seasonal positions, including: DPW Transfer Station Crew Lead, Playa Restoration Technician, Man Pavillion Crew, and Man Pavillion Shop Steward.

Elected as an Assembly District Representative to the California Democratic Party, representing AD2, encompassing Humboldt, Del Norte, Mendocino, Trinity, and part of Sonoma Counties. Participates in party conventions, engages in Progressive, Rural, LGBTQ+, and Environmental caucuses, and votes on critical party matters, including endorsements, legislative positions, resolutions, and elections of party office holders. Advocates for the interests and values of the constituents within AD2, contributing to the democratic process and shaping the party's direction at both the local and state levels.

Eureka, California, United States

Responsible for processing land use permit applications, analyzing proposals for compliance with relevant local code, state law, and with the the California Environmental Protection Act (CEQA). Collaborated with applicants, the public, and local, state, federal, and tribal agencies to assess project impacts, and served as a liaison with Tribal Historic Preservation Officers (THPOs) for the protection of tribal archaeological and cultural resources. Reviewed technical studies prepared by qualified professionals, including botanists, biologists, and foresters, and made recommendations for site restoration and the protection of natural resources. Maintained Accela records, prepared staff reports and presented projects before decision making bodies consisting of elected and appointed officials, obtaining approvals for over 100 projects.

Oakland, California, United States

Supported Oakland-based legal team in securing land use permits for business owners. Conducted research and tracked emerging policies that could impact our client’s business activities and permitting strategies. Analyzed available real estate and advised clients on compliant locations for their businesses. Drafted land use permit applications and prepared site maps using GIS mapping software. Assisted with business development for the firm, including branding, marketing, community organizing, lobbying and government relations, establishing and maintaining relationships with prospects, and participating in industry trade associations.