Greetings Neighbors,
I’m in the running AGAIN for a 2018 position on the Palos Verdes Homes Association Board. You may or may not be aware that last year too few residents voted, resulting in no quorum. PVHA collected the ballots ( including any that went to Sparky’s Pet Grooming) but did not open them. This year, PLEASE VOTE!

 

MARLENE BREENE BIO

In 1985, my husband Patrick and I moved into our Lunada Bay ‘dream fixer’, with two young preschoolers in tow.  It was the ugliest house on the block. Today we live in the same (remodeled) house, and we have the honored title of ‘the older couple on the block’.  Our three daughters all graduated from PV schools, while my husband worked for Toyota, and I continued growing my design studio.

In the position of board member for the Palos Verdes Homes Association, I would bring the following expertise to the table:

• As a successful business owner and PV resident for over 32 years, I know what it takes to do  good work in our community.

• My degree in Environmental Design from Parson’s School of Design has prepared me for an interdisciplinary working style, with studies in urban planning, architecture, structures, landscape, interiors, and lighting.

• Special studies on the Olmsted firm, both at Parsons and through symposia by the National Association of Olmsted Parks, give me a deeper insight into the history of our community and inspiration for the future.

• My extensive volunteer efforts as a board member for the Lunada Bay Homeowners Association, Committee Chairperson for PTA, and docent activities for the Palos Verdes Art Center and the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, provide awareness and connection to community concerns on a day to day level.

• My excellent working relationship with the Art Jury, staff, and the City of PVE, displays skill in navigating city process, seeking the best possible outcome for residents while preserving our high standards.

Our city, Palos Verdes Estates, is considered the jewel among Olmsted’s many projects.  I am honored to be a resident, business owner and designer, contributing to our city legacy.

POSITIONING STATEMENT 2018

Hit the reset button!  Over the past few years PVHA has demonstrated a diminished ability to serve our community effectively. The past and future do not need to be in conflict.  I would work to re-align PVHA words, actions and policies to reflect the clear direction set down in our CC&R’s.  I embrace a modernization strategy that builds on the past, reflects community values, and takes the long view to development.  I support stewardship of our valuable parklands, and acknowledge the need for clear, equitable guidelines in the architectural review process.  We are historically a visionary community. We need to pay attention to that original vision, to adapt and carefully uplift it for the benefit of future generations.  In the words of Olmsted, “May we who are responsible… look at the beauty…and may the generations who follow keep this in their minds and plans”

POSITIONING STATEMENT 2017

I am inspired by the Olmsted vision for our community. We have an abundance of riches, from ocean views and beautiful architecture to protected open space.  A profound sense of community is nurtured by our surroundings and protected by our CC&R’s.  Current PVHA legal actions have put the foundation of our community at risk.  All Parkland becomes a commodity to be sold, and we lose the greater right for the oversight of development granted by our CC&R’s.  As a PVHA board member, I will preserve the intention of our CC&R’s, conduct business to to a right and honorable standard, and protect community values.