2025-177

TO THE COUNCIL:

The Sustainability and Climate Commission (Commission) is established to advance and develop climate action and outcomes across our city with a focus on environmental justice and accountability to the City’s sustainability goals. The Commission creates and evaluates the City’s Climate Action Plan that identifies and outlines specific actions to accomplish the City’s sustainability and climate goals and the associated outcomes.

As Mayor, I request Council confirmation of the following appointments to the Sustainability and Climate Commission:

Individuals represent themselves; affiliations are listed for identification purposes only.

Four-year terms:

Damon Motz-Storey (D1) is Director of Sierra Club Oregon Chapter, and brings a strong commitment to intersectional climate justice, combining policy advocacy with grassroots organizing and community-centered solutions. Damon values data-driven strategies, clear processes, and systems that support long-term climate resilience and adaptation. They envision the Sustainability and Climate Commission as a well-established and respected body that can help Portland learn from past climate plans and improve outcomes moving forward. Their work focuses on effective messaging and grounded leadership that connects vision to action.

Statement of interest: “I am excited about working with wide ranges of Portlanders to figure out what tools the City of Portland can put to use to slash our collective greenhouse gas emissions, grow innovative and mutually supportive green spaces for people and wildlife, and protect the historic victories that our voters and ancestors won for our environment and climate.”

Jessica Zahn (D1) is the Senior Manager of ESG Reporting at Lam Research and Board Secretary of Waste-Free Advocates. She is grounded in the goals of the City’s Climate Emergency Workplan and data-driven planning and mitigation. Jessica is experienced in engagement and communication, sustainability data management and reporting, and setting and tracking measurable goals. She is also active in waste reduction advocacy, working to connect real-world impact with community priorities.

Statement of interest: “I'm excited about the opportunity to work with Portlanders who I might not normally cross paths with! Being able to find solutions with those from different backgrounds is rewarding and can only make our community stronger.”

José Gamero-Georgeson (D1) is a School Board Member of David Douglas School District, a past Co-Chair of the Government Transition Advisory Committee, and brings lived experience with disability and a background in environmental science and extensive community governance experience. José is committed to setting achievable climate benchmarks and ensuring the community is involved in shaping solutions from the start. He works closely with the City Council and encourages commissioners to engage directly with their communities to gather feedback, build buy-in, and refine ideas. His leadership is grounded in trust, accessibility, and action.

Statement of interest: “I hope to bring an East Portland view. Often, we forget that sometimes great ideas to preserve the environment come at a much higher cost to the poorest of us.”

Maya Puggarana (D2) is a Programs Associate at the World Forestry Center, where she develops programs that educate and convene cross-sector stakeholders to advance sustainable forestry. She approaches her labor through relationship-building - the foundation for enduring, collective action to combat climate change. Maya is committed to shifting power to frontline communities and strengthening the Sustainability and Climate Commission as a trusted bridge between working-class Portlanders and the City.

Statement of interest: “With eyes wide open to this unfolding catastrophe, I am compelled to dedicate my time, energy, and capabilities to advancing the [Sustainability and Climate Commission’s] mission: building resilience and sustainability in our communities to address the climate crisis head-on.”

Vivek Shandas (D2) is a Professor at Portland State University in Geography. He brings deep experience translating climate theory into practical, community-based solutions. Vivek focuses on climate adaptation and mitigation through strategic planning, staff capacity building, and effective partnerships. He emphasizes the importance of assessing local context to ensure practices are both equitable and impactful. His approach calls for the Sustainability and Climate Commission to be present, vocal, and clearly aligned with City Council and other advisory bodies to advance shared values and priorities.

Statement of interest: “I would like the City to find ways to collaborate with regional partners on climate adaptation efforts… While my wish is to focus on the building codes and engage communities in addressing adaptation practices, I believe that a few accomplishments could include: integrating science into the City's adaptation frameworks, providing support to City District leaders in engaging communities with effective communication, providing meaningful guidance on the implementation of the climate justice plan (with Mult Co), engaging City bureaus in advancing climate adaptation goals.”

Charity Fain (D3) is the Executive Director of Community Energy Project, and brings lived experience with poverty and disability, which informs her deep commitment to energy and climate justice. Charity is rooted in creating transparent, justice-driven processes that guide how decisions are made and who benefits. She has experience tracking programs to ensure they deliver measurable, community-wide outcomes. Her approach focuses on building systems of accountability that center frontline communities in shaping Portland’s climate future.

Statement of interest: “I’m very interested in learning more about how these policies are coordinated across bureaus and better integrated into city operations… I hope to see more resources dedicated across the city for remedies for climate justice.”

Nora Apter (D3) is the Oregon Director of Climate Solutions and a Commissioner on the Oregon Climate Action Commission. She works at the intersection of public policy and climate justice, advancing bold, community-driven solutions that center equity and long-term impact. Nora values collaborating with diverse partners to shape and implement Portland’s climate roadmap, with a focus on measurable outcomes and transparent processes. Her approach prioritizes clear communication, strong metrics, and inclusive engagement to ensure that policy drives just and lasting change.

Statement of interest: “Throughout my career in public policy and environmental advocacy, I have consistently sought opportunities where I have the ability to harness my strengths to effect the most change. What excites me most about [serving] on the Sustainability and Climate Commission is the opportunity to support the City in delivering the climate leadership Portland communities needs and deserves.”

Dana Visse (D4) is the Senior Climate Analyst at Metro, where she leads efforts to decarbonize operations while applying an equity lens to climate action. She previously supported the implementation of the County of San Diego’s Climate Action Plan and brings a strong focus on growing economic vitality, workforce development, and community resilience through sustainability. Dana’s approach is grounded in deep listening, transparent reporting, and relationship-building across sectors. She believes in iterative, data-informed processes that empower communities, especially those historically marginalized, to shape solutions. Her work emphasizes collaboration, humility, and ensuring that climate action serves people and place. 

Statement of interest: “In this role, I would strive to be a leader in understanding, evaluating, and communicating different climate solution strategies for Portland, helping to imagine and articulate their possible impact through sound analysis, and championing climate solutions centered on equity with the potential to produce real results. During my service term I would commit to actively listening to others, ensuring all voices are heard, identifying who is not being represented but will be impacted, facilitating respectful and robust conversations, and making thoughtful recommendations to the City of Portland in alignment with the commission’s charter and values.”

Two-year terms: 

Alina Pawchareune (D2) is an Innovation Portfolio & Operations Manager at Nike and brings a background in biotechnology and professional sustainability experience across marketing and supply chain systems, with a strong focus on aligning corporate action with social and climate justice. As a daughter of immigrants, Alina draws on her lived experience to advocate for transparency, accountability, and equitable investment in frontline communities. She has contributed to internal accountability task forces and led education and public engagement efforts rooted in data-driven solutions. Alina believes in the power of public-private partnerships to advance community-centered climate action and sees strong needs for alignment between the Sustainability and Climate Commission and the goals of the Portland Clean Energy Fund.

Statement of interest: “[Serving] on this advisory body is exciting because it is an opportunity to be part of a pivotal moment where Portland steps up as a climate leader and paves the way for other cities to model.”

Galen Whalen (D2) is a Project Architect at Hennebery Eddy. His work focuses on reducing embodied carbon in the built environment and advancing climate-conscious design practices. Galen is actively engaged in tracking Portland City Council and reviewing climate-related progress reports to assess implementation and accountability. He brings a systems-level perspective to the intersection of architecture, policy, and measurable climate action, and is grounded in the Climate Emergency Workplan.

Statement of interest: “I am excited to serve on this committee to encourage a more just, healthy, and sustainable future for all the residents of Portland… I strongly believe that Portland can be a national and international leader on what a sustainable city can be, and I would be excited to play a part in seeing that vision come true.”

Greg Retsinas (D2) is the President of KGW-TV and brings a business-minded approach to climate action rooted in strategy, communication, and investment. KGW has led efforts to bring sustainable technology to its buildings and transition its fleet to electric vehicles, while also creating one of the first-ever climate change reporting beats in local broadcast television news. Greg’s approach focuses on cross-sector collaboration, connecting private and nonprofit partners to identify and fund impactful climate solutions and he is particularly committed to investing in youth and integrating climate priorities into all areas of organizational decision-making. He envisions a Sustainability and Climate Commission that establishes a climate impact review process for projects across the organization and invests in the community.

Statement of interest: “I look forward to working with others who care about Portland to help this community achieve ambitious sustainability goals.”

Dan Trifone (D3) is the Climate and Health Specialist for Multnomah County. His work focuses on the intersection of climate justice and public health, with a commitment to addressing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on frontline communities. At the Multnomah County Health Department, Dan supports initiatives that integrate health equity into climate resilience planning. He brings a systems-level perspective to community well-being, ensuring that climate strategies protect and prioritize those most at risk.

Statement of interest: “The opportunity to serve on this advisory body excites me because it aligns with my passion for creating equitable, inclusive, and community-driven solutions to systemic challenges. Having worked in roles where I’ve witnessed both the barriers and opportunities facing diverse communities, I am deeply motivated to contribute to an advisory body committed to improving outcomes for all residents, particularly those who are historically underserved.”

Stephanie Kaza (D3) is Professor Emerita at the University of Vermont in Environmental Studies. She brings deep experience in environmental ethics, intergenerational collaboration, sustainability education, and systems thinking. Stephanie advocates for clear roles between staff and commissioners, with transparent reporting procedures that support effective governance. She supports aligning the Sustainability and Climate Commission’s work with statewide efforts like the Oregon Climate Action Commission. Her approach emphasizes thoughtful coordination, continuity, and long-term vision.

Statement of interest: “I have followed with enthusiasm the work of the commission supporting the new governance structure in Portland and I am eager to be part of the new, more inclusive future moving forward. I can draw on a deep bench of climate and sustainability knowledge and would enjoy working with city staff to outline goals, objectives, and actions for an updated climate plan.”

Angus Duncan (D4) was the founding President of the Bonneville Environmental Foundation and is a lifelong champion of renewable energy and climate policy in the Pacific Northwest. He played a key role in drafting the Northwest Power Act, which prioritized energy efficiency, renewable energy, and full-cost accounting, and established the four-state Northwest Power Planning Council. Over several decades, he led early wind and solar projects, chaired the Northwest Power Planning Council and Oregon’s Global Warming Commission (2008–2020 - now named the Oregon Climate Action Commission), and contributed to landmark policies phasing out fossil fuels and cutting greenhouse gas emissions. As an 18-year consultant for the Natural Resources Defense Council, Angus continues to advise on regional climate, energy and transmission policy and planning.

Statement of interest: “My first priority is to continue my efforts to bring about constructive energy and climate change actions nationally and in Oregon… I like to think I could provide fellow Commission members with context and some historical perspective as City policies seek their future footing.”

Sriya Chinnam (D4) is a Climate Literacy Program Lead for Sunrise Movement, and since her teenage years, she has been a dedicated climate organizer and a strong advocate for integrating climate curriculum into Portland Public Schools. Passionate about civil discourse and public education, Sriya strives to foster a more informed and empowered community. She sees the Sustainability and Climate Commission as an essential component in advancing community governance, especially strengthening trust and transparency between the People and their government where real equitable change happens when a government listens and learns from its communities. Her work emphasizes using existing tools and technical knowledge to support community-led solutions.

Statement of interest: “What excites me most about serving on this advisory body is the opportunity to actively shape Portland’s climate policies and advance environmental justice in a city I’ve called home my entire life. The chance to collaborate with a diverse group of passionate individuals to create equitable and sustainable solutions is deeply inspiring.”

Suze Wehr (D4) is an advocate, researcher and multi-disciplinary creative committed to advancing ecological justice, and as the Communications and Advocacy Associate at the Western Environmental Law Center, Suze works to protect wildlife, ecosystems, and communities across the western U.S. through storytelling and organizing. Through her background in grassroots environmental organizations and K-12 educational programming, Suze is grounded in community listening and engagement that empowers. She envisions the Sustainability and Climate Commission applying data-driven climate strategies that reflect the diverse needs of Portland’s neighborhoods, protect local biodiversity, and incorporate Tribal co-management and Traditional Ecological Knowledge. Suze is thrilled to join this team’s efforts towards achieving equitable climate solutions through strong partnerships across the city. 

Statement of interest: “The opportunity to serve on the Sustainability and Climate Commission excites me because it aligns with my deep commitment to fostering equity, environmental stewardship, and resilience in our urban environment. I’m inspired by the chance to shape policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of Portland communities, especially those historically (and currently) marginalized.”

Youth one-year terms: 

Celeste Ruiz (D1) is a Parkrose resident who brings lived experience as Mexican American constantly confronted with environmental injustices in our community, which has led her to become an advocate for other underprivileged minority communities facing similar issues. She serves on the Multnomah Youth Commission’s Transit Equity Environmental Advocacy Committee and as a Community Representative with 1000 Friends of Oregon, where she supports collaborative, community-driven climate and land use policy. Celeste is deeply committed to environmental justice, inclusive engagement, and elevating underrepresented voices in public decision-making. 

Statement of interest: “I am deeply passionate about addressing the challenges of climate change and creating sustainable futures for our communities. Serving on this advisory body excites me because it offers opportunities to influence policies and initiatives that can drive equitable, meaningful change.” 

Eesa Taylor (D4) is a junior at Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School and comes from a Muslim family and have Filipino and African American heritage. He has been deeply involved with Climate Work within PPS and his school for the past 2 years, serving on the PPS Climate Justice Youth Advisory since last year, and helping plan the PPS Annual Spring Climate Summit. He is also involved with Climate advocacy in his school as the President and founder of the Clean Air Club, where he works closely with the nonprofit Neighbors for Clean Air to increase advocacy in his school community and organize field trips. 

Statement of interest: “What excites me the most about the possibility of serving on this board is its true scale. I am a firm believer that the larger the scale of an action, the larger the impact it will have on the average person's life. With that in mind, the idea of serving on a board that serves the entire city of Portland and people of all backgrounds excites me because it means that my actions and our collective action will be able to benefit lots of people and change lives.”

Leah Almeida (D4) is a student at Lincoln High School and an active youth advocate for environmental justice. She believes climate policy is the most direct and effective way to solve the climate crisis. She co-founded Constellation Climate Policy to bridge the gap between policymakers and youth and encourage young people to get involved in the legislative system. Leah is also an advocate for expanding access to sustainability career pathways in schools. She brings a clear understanding of how youth can shape a more just and inclusive climate future. On the commission, she hopes to reject the climate doom mindset that has become prevalent among youth and reengage her peers with hope, action, and collective power.

Statement of interest: “The possibility of serving on this advisory body excites me deeply because it offers a chance to contribute meaningfully to the broader community by addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time: the climate crisis. I am particularly drawn to the council’s commitment to advancing environmental justice, creating accountability, and balancing advisory and action-focused work.”

Luna González González (D4) is a 17-year-old junior at Catlin Gabel High School, where she serves as a Junior Co-President, Student Inclusivity Coordinator, Environmental Action Team Co-Leader, and Co-Leader of the Hispanic & Latine Affinity Group. Passionate about the intersections of Equity & Inclusion, Sustainability, and STEM, Luna works to advance environmental justice by uplifting youth voices and centering historically marginalized communities. She is especially focused on empowering young people to take on leadership roles in climate action, and on building inclusive and accountable systems that connect people with the environment and promote accessible, sustainable practices across Portland. Through her leadership, Luna strives to ensure climate action is community-driven, equity-centered, and rooted in collective action. 

Statement of interest: “I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with other Portland community members who are equally as passionate about environmental justice as I am, and to be deeply engaged with the work of the Portland City Council. I admire the work of city officials in similar commissions and am thrilled at the possibility of contributing to this remarkable legacy by representing the interests of Portland youth, particularly in the fight against climate change.”

Alternates:

Garrett Wong (D2) is an Associate in Advisory Services at WM (formerly Waste Management) and Co-Chair for serves on the Emerging Professionals Board for Blanchet House. He brings experience in sustainability and waste systems with a focus on advancing environmental justice through practical, community-oriented solutions. His approach focuses on reducing environmental harm while promoting equitable access to services. He aims to bridge operations and advocacy to create more sustainable and inclusive systems solutions.

Statement of interest: “As a sustainability professional living in Portland since 2019, I’m looking forward to the opportunity to take my skillset and apply it towards local sustainable development within the City. It’s exciting to see the City’s dedication towards the climate action plan and minimizing our impact on the environment, and I’m excited for the opportunity to be a part of the solution.”

Carla Chen (D3) is the Sustainability Lead at LAIKA, a stop-motion animation studio based in Hillsboro. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering and brings with her expertise in continuous improvement, quality and sustainability roles. She is a Master Recycler and is currently pursuing her Master Gardener Certification. Carla currently serves on the Hillsboro Environmental Stewardship Committee.

Statement of interest: “I would love to make a positive impact on the community. I am constantly learning and changing my day-to-day actions to make less of an impact on the environment. I want to enable people and make them feel like they can make a difference by sharing the resources that we have available.”

Beatrice “Bee” Sloan (D4) works in Emergency Management at Portland Public Schools. She brings expertise in project management, interagency collaboration, and climate adaptation and resiliency. Bee is committed to developing clear roles and processes that support conflict resolution and building cooperative relationships across government systems. Her work emphasizes climate adaptation strategies that are practical, community-informed, and grounded in lived experience.

Statement of interest: “Acquiring the knowledge, skills, and credentials and then giving them "legs" in my current job and volunteer work has been one of the most joyful experiences of my life. I love Portland, and the possibility of being part of a change agent group to make this city more livable and sustainable in the years and decades to come - most particularly, helping to create plans that are actionable and include mileposts, oversight, funding, and helping to get buy-in and commitment to execute the plan from the stakeholders involved - is - well, this goes beyond "excited."”

Holland Burd (student in D4) is a student at St. Mary’s Academy and a member of the school’s Environmental Justice Club. She is passionate about equitable climate policy and the role of public engagement in building trust and accountability. Holland brings a cross-sector perspective that connects social and economic issues to green workforce development. She envisions the Sustainability and Climate Commission will track progress toward climate goals through clear metrics and create effective strategies that remain adaptable to evolving community needs. She is committed to ensuring youth voices help shape a just climate future.

Statement of interest: “This opportunity excites me beyond belief. As a youth, broad-scale systemic change often feels just out of reach, but this committee offers a tangible way to directly impact my community.”

Skai Dancey (works in D4) is Associate VP of Facilities at Oregon Health & Science University, overseeing campus operations—including buildings, grounds, energy, transportation, and environmental health and safety. Skai has championed environmental sustainability at OHSU since 2003. A licensed mechanical engineer and MBA with over thirty years of experience leading the development and operations of complex facilities, Skai hopes to leverage his strategic skills and results-driven approach to support Portland’s new government structure and advance the City’s sustainability goals.

Statement of interest: “Growing up in Oregon, I have seen the change in climate over the last fifty years. I think that it is urgent and imperative that we create programs to protect the incredible gift of our pacific northwest natural resources. Over the last fifteen years, I have seen the accelerating transition from sustainability planning to climate resilience and the increasing impacts on underserved communities.”