This definition from Rob Bennett: “An EcoDistrict is a neighborhood that generates all its energy from on-site renewables, collects and recycles rainwater and waste, and prioritizes pedestrian, bike, and transit access. It combines mixed use, mixed income development; neighborhood scale parks, schools, community centers; and services, and enhanced IT infrastructure.” [EcoDISTRICTS Concept Paper, Rob Bennett, Portland+Oregon sustainability Institute].

But in another breath (above): “In Lents what drives people is getting their basic needs met,” Bennett said. “You have more people living in poverty than other areas. Being able to walk safely, serving local businesses and reducing the impacts on the cost of living will be the drivers behind this eco-district plan.”

Mr. Bennett cares little about the economic status or the basic needs of Lents – he cares only to push the green concepts where he suspects that resistance is low. Rather than spend urban renewal funds (Lents’ property taxes) and other money to economically build a community from within – the focus with the help of the green demigods is to build from without according to their desires – not the residents of Lents.

To this end – Naomi Cole (above) has this to say: “It’s critical to have a residential, low-income community as one of our pilots. Engaging the residents will be really important.”

She hasn’t a clue.

This post was mentioned on Twitter by Greenlentsnow: Jalene made the news!!
#greenlents #Lents #ecodistrict…