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GREEN COMMISSIONER NEEDED

Dear Reader,

Do you have the “ability to exercise sensitive judgment and maintain composure under stress?”Let’s hope so if you plan to become the city of Milwaukee’s Director of Environmental Sustainability, a new a non-civil service position created by the mayor, and subject to his appointment. Those serene qualities are listed as number 8 among the qualifications sought. [Here is the application]. This is a cabinet level position, and the successful candidate will report directly to the mayor."The Director manages all activities of the Office of Environmental Sustainability, reports to the Mayor of Milwaukee and has cabinet level stature. This position advises the Mayor, Common Council and City departments on strategies and policy direction to improve Milwaukee's environmental performance related to stormwater management, energy efficiency, air and water quality, solid waste, recycling and green business development. The Director will provide professional direction in the development and implementation of a Citywide 'Green Action Plan.'
The pay starts at $70,767 per year, and can reach, by increments, $99,074. Those who lose their composure under stress, or are insensitive in their judgment need not apply.

The “creative, resourceful and industrious” [Qualification 5] candidate will also have the “ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, other City employees, citizens, media, community organizations, the foundation community, the private sector and other agencies.” [Qualification 7]. You do know the local foundation community, don’t you?

What is the “Office of Environmental Sustainability?”

According to the job description, the “Office of Environmental Sustainability resulted from the efforts of over 80 committed Milwaukeeans convened by Mayor Tom Barrett in April 2005 to map the future course of Milwaukee's efforts to be ‘green.’

“This office will be the primary mechanism for the Mayor to ensure that Green goals and strategies are incorporated into the City's day-to-day operations. It will also leverage the resources of people and organizations outside of government to pursue community goals.”

Does that sound bureaucratic to you? Shame! The job description goes on to tell us

“The Green Team views this office not as a new bureaucratic structure, but as an investment in Milwaukee that will save costs in the long term and improve operational efficiencies.”

You have until March 10^th to submit your application.

--Michael Horne