Environmental chief appointed for Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker has appointed Vicki Bennett as director of the city's Office of Sustainability and the Environment.

Bennett has been serving as Salt Lake City's environmental programs manager since 2001. She was the unanimous choice of a selection committee comprised of community members and city employees.

"Salt Lake City is fortunate to have such an incredible resource in Vicki Bennett," Becker said Tuesday. "She will bring the vision and experience we need to accomplish all of the plans for sustainability I addressed during my campaign for mayor."

Bennett brings more than 25 years of experience working on environmental issues to the new position. Her career highlights include implementing environmental management systems for PacificCorp and international environmental consulting for a diverse group of industries.

"I am looking forward to getting to work immediately on Mayor Becker's 180-day plan for the environment," Bennett said. "Our first task will be to complete the measurement of the city's carbon footprint according to the new carbon registry standards, and use the data to determine how each city department can best reduce its energy consumption."

Bennett will be responsible for working on behalf of Salt Lake City to evaluate and integrate long-term economic, environmental and social considerations in city plans, actions and expenditures. She also will work with organizations throughout the community to identify and pursue opportunities to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices.