Nancy Richards

Program Director

Nancy is an experienced community leader whose career objective is to promote the use of smart growth principals to achieve more livable communities.  She served on the Truckee Planning Commission for over 9 years and as Chair in 2000 and 2004 playing a leadership role in the development of codes and design guidelines, Downtown Specific Plans, Historic Preservation Programs, General Plan Updates, and Green Building.  Nancy is a skilled facilitator and effective communicator and collaborator. 

Professional Experience

Nancy is a Program Director focusing on SBC’s Planning and Sustainable Business and Development Practices programs.  She is in tune with local community needs, values, and resources and has the ability to match them with innovative planning and development practices.  Nancy has extensive experience in both the private and public sectors and solid facilitative and community outreach skills.  She is adept at building relationships with local agencies, the private sector, special interests, and the public.  Nancy is skilled in the areas of land use planning, sustainable communities, green building, and workforce housing.  She is a valuable asset for communities seeking to balance and grow their social, natural, and financial capital.

Prior to joining SBC, Nancy served as a Truckee Planning Commissioner from 1997 to 2006 and chaired the Commission for two years.  She is a founding Board Member of the Truckee Tahoe Community Foundation and has served on the Buildings Division Board of the American Solar Energy Society.  She was Director of Business Development for a Physician’s Private Practice and Director of Sales and Marketing in the Solar Industry.  She starter her Career as an English Teacher for a California High School.

Education

Nancy Holds a BA in English from the University of California at Los Angeles and a Lifetime Secondary Teaching Credential.  She has continued her education with workshops and seminars in passive solar design, sustainable communities, and leadership.

Personal Highlights

Nancy has lived in Truckee for 18 years in a passive solar home with her husband Chris and their two daughters, Andrea and Zoe.  She enjoys skiing, hiking, and travel.