COLUMN 3
Executive Director Peter M. Douglas Announces Retirement
Peter Douglas, the
California Coastal Commission’s longest-serving Executive
Director, has announced that he will be retiring from his
position in November, 2011, for health reasons. Mr. Douglas has
been the Coastal Commission’s Director since he was appointed in
1985, after serving for ten years as the agency’s Chief Deputy.
Prior to his work for the Commission, he worked in the
Legislature as an aide to Assemblyman Alan Sieroty (D-Beverly
Hills), and as an Assembly committee consultant. As such he was
a key player in the drafting and passage of Proposition 20 (the
Coastal Initiative) in 1972, as well as the California Coastal
Act of 1976 which created the Coastal Commission. He has guided
its implementation ever since.
During his 34-year tenure at the Coastal Commission, Peter has
earned the love, respect and loyalty of his staff, and has
served as an inspiration to environmental advocates and stewards
statewide and beyond. Peter’s commitment and vision for the
California coast as a precious and irreplaceable resource for
everyone has never wavered. His career has been a labor of love
that has enabled him to remain at the helm of the Commission
despite numerous challenges over six different administrations.
His leadership, mentorship, and friendship have been a guiding
light in good times and bad, and his daily presence at the
Commission will be sorely missed.
Along with his many, many accomplishments in the coastal
protection arena, Peter will be forever remembered for his kind
heart, deep integrity and mischievous sense of humor. After
retirement he intends to focus on his writing projects, enjoying
nature, and spending time with his friends, family and
especially his two grandchildren.
Each and every member of the
Coastal Commission staff and the extended coastal family wish
him a long, satisfying and productive retirement, and offer our
heartfelt gratitude for the beautiful difference he has made in
this world.
 Photo: Peter DaSilva, The New York Times |
See an extended biography and personal comments from Peter Douglas.
Click here for the link to the video of Peter Douglas's comments.
Read Senate President pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg's statement on Peter Douglas's retirement.