APA California

Congratulations to Peter Carter on his appointment as APA California’s 2026 Statewide Programs Coordinator! 🎉

We are excited to welcome Peter to the APA California leadership team and look forward to the expertise he will bring to this important role.

As Statewide Programs Coordinator, Peter will help expand and strengthen professional development opportunities for planners across California by supporting the development and promotion of high-quality educational programs throughout the year.

We look forward to Peter’s contributions and the impact he will make in supporting planners across the state.

This month, we’re highlighting the Federal Planning Division - a community of professionals dedicated to advancing planning and land management practices for federal properties across the United States and around the world.

The Division supports comprehensive planning, policy development, and land stewardship efforts that help improve the quality of life for those who live, work, and recreate on federal lands and facilities. It also promotes the protection and enhancement of federal properties to ensure they continue serving their intended purposes for generations to come.

Through education, networking, and professional collaboration, the Federal Planning Division helps elevate federal planning issues within both the profession and APA.

Explore the Division and get involved!

🎉 Registration is now open for the APA California 2026 Conference!

Join us in Los Angeles as we explore this year’s theme, Crafting Our Narrative: Planning as Storytelling. Connect with planning professionals from across the state, learn from expert speakers, explore innovative ideas, earn CM credits, and be part of California’s premier planning event.

📅 Important Schedule Update: Day 1 (Saturday) will now be a full day of regular educational programming, including the Opening Plenary. Be sure to plan your travel accordingly so you don’t miss any conference activities.

🏨 A limited number of rooms are available at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE at a special conference rate. Hotel booking details will be provided in your registration confirmation email.

Learn more and register now: www.apaca2026conference.org (link in bio)

🏳️‍🌈 This month, we’re highlighting the LGBTQ and Planning Division - a community dedicated to advancing understanding, inclusion, and collaboration within the planning profession.

The Division provides a forum for planners and allies to exchange ideas, share information, and explore planning issues that impact LGBTQ communities. It also serves as a professional network that fosters connection, support, and advocacy across the profession.

With roots dating back to 1992 and formal recognition as an APA Division since 1998, the LGBTQ and Planning Division continues to help create more equitable, welcoming, and inclusive communities for all.

Explore the Division and get involved!

Congratulations to Elaine (Xue) Ling, AICP on being recognized at NPC Detroit with this year’s California Chapter Volunteer Award! 👏

Her years of dedicated service representing Northern California as Chapter Awards Co-Chair - alongside Geoff Danker - have made a meaningful impact in recognizing excellence across the Chapter.

Thank you for your continued commitment and leadership! 🎉

The May 2026 APA California Legislative Update is now live on our website! Stay informed on the latest state policy developments impacting planning across California.

Read the full update on our Legislative Updates webpage:
https://www.apacalifornia.org/advocacy/annual-legislative-update/

This Pride Month, APA California proudly celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community and recognizes the planners, advocates, and leaders helping shape more inclusive, equitable, vibrant communities across California.

Planning is about people - creating places where everyone feels seen, welcomed, and valued. We honor the voices and perspectives that strengthen our profession and help build communities where everyone belongs.

Happy Pride Month from APA California! 🌈

Conference registration opens June 9! 🎉

Join us October 3–6 in Los Angeles for the APA California 2026 Conference: Crafting Our Narrative: Planning as Storytelling.

📣 Please note this year’s schedule change: Day 1 (Saturday) will now be a full day of regular sessions, including the Opening Plenary. Be sure to plan your travel accordingly so you don’t miss a moment!

Registration details and more information coming soon.

Reminder for AICP members: The extended CM grace period ends May 31, 2026.

Be sure to review and log any remaining CM credits before the deadline to avoid an interruption in your AICP status!

🏘️ This month, we’re highlighting the Housing & Community Development Division - a nationwide network of professionals dedicated to creating healthy, vibrant, and inclusive communities.

The Division supports planners, educators, housing professionals, community developers, and allied professionals through valuable networking and educational opportunities focused on housing, human needs, and the built environment.

In addition to advancing these important conversations within the planning profession, the Division also offers scholarship opportunities to support emerging leaders in the field.

Explore the Division to learn more and get involved!

Visit: https://housing.planning.org/