Tag: DSA

AIACC at Work for You: 2011 Year in Review

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Like volunteer leaders in AIA components across the country, I entered the office of AIACC President with passion, enthusiasm, and lofty goals for improving the AIA and our profession. We set goals, quickly identifying the need for stronger collaborations, improved communications, and more proactive advocacy initiatives. I urged us to build stronger coalitions and to bring together the many groups focused on efforts similar to ours to forge alliances and to be a stronger force in the political arena. I also emphasized the need to change the way we communicate and to create more leadership training opportunities for future leaders of AIA and for citizen architects to lead our communities. I stressed the importance of expanding the voices of our students, associates, and young architect members at all levels of AIA. I was ambitious and full of ideas and optimism.

Then reality set in, and I realized more and more each day that serving as your President was a far more complex effort than I had ever imagined. Paul Welch – our Executive Vice President – went to Washington to help out our ailing parent organization, California elected a new governor who was faced with overwhelming deficits, and the recession that we all hoped wouldn’t last too long is still with us. Issues were popping up all over the place that we hadn’t counted on, and yet, with reduced staff and a budget that anticipated using reserves, we accomplished a phenomenal amount and put money into reserves rather than spending them!

In looking back, it is common to reflect on the goals and focus on what hasn’t yet been achieved, but instead, I am amazed at all of the accomplishments of our committees, volunteers, and staff. Here are just a few of the highlights of 2011.

Regulatory Affairs. We created a vision for the Division of the State Architect (DSA), which will allow the State of California to assume a leadership role in the thoughtful development of the built environment.

  • Published Maximizing California’s Resources: Recommendations for a Stronger Design and Construction Industry as a vision for a renewed DSA in partnership with the K-12 Capitol Forum Group.
  • Established a process to recruit and vet candidates for the State Architect position.
  • Assisted the Governor’s office in the appointment of Chester Widom, FAIA, as the new State Architect.

Legislative Advocacy. The AIACC sponsored legislation, AB 560, was signed into law by Governor Brown. AB 560 extends the sunset date on the law that allows architectural firms to be organized as Limited Liability Partnerships by seven years, and it does not increase the amount of professional liability insurance architectural LLPs must carry.

Communications. 2011 was a year of transition. While we had a great start on a new website platform, we quickly realized the need for a stronger commitment to increased presence on the web with greater engagement of our members and the general public. Staff and budgets have been realigned and priorities redirected to a new, invigorated web site. We have plans for ongoing content generation, and we are increasing our presence in the social media arena. Our relationship with aecKnowledge is expanding, and our offerings of online continuing education opportunities are growing. We recognize the value of developing more knowledge content to support our advocacy efforts, and we are moving toward sharing our stories in increasingly more human ways. This is all good, and these are efforts that must be continued and sustained if the AIACC is to remain relevant.

Architectural Education Summit. This initiative by the AIACC Academy for Emerging Professionals (AEP) and the California Architectural Foundation (CAF) to bring faculty, students, and administrators from colleges and community colleges across the state together to discuss architecture education within the state was ground breaking. A diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), the California Architects Board (CAB), the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA), the National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (NCARB), and community colleges participated in this strategic planning session, which resulted in a five-year initiative to bridge the gap between architectural education and practice within the state. Results from the Summit will be available soon.

Monterey Design Conference. Truly one of the outstanding offerings of the AIACC, MDC 2011 did not disappoint! With more than 550 attendees, fabulous speakers, and an increased emphasis on opportunities for interaction, the conference received rave reviews. For the first time, we also filmed the presentations, hosted by aecKnowledge

California Healthcare Facilities Forum. The AIACC’s Capitol Forum partnered with ACHA, to hold a conference to discuss the impact of the new Universal Healthcare law on California facilities. Over 140 healthcare professionals and representatives from the design and construction industry participated in this event, focusing on issues such as the increase in patient volumes (as a result of the new law) and the effect on facilities; how technological innovation will be driving healthcare delivery in the future; and the potential opportunities that accompany this transformational change.
Partnership with the California Architectural Foundation (CAF).

Turnbull Competition/Drylands Conference. Finally, I am pleased to report on the progress between the AIACC and the California Architectural Foundation in strengthening the connections and identifying opportunities for collaboration in support of the AIACC’s advocacy efforts. One of these opportunities materialized in 2011: a focus on water issues within California. The Foundation partnered with the Arid Lands Institute at Woodbury University to create the William Turnbull Competition: Drylands Design. Over 290 students and professionals have registered to participate in this ideas competition to generate progressive proposals that suggest to policy makers and the public creative alternatives for water conservation and mitigation. The jury will be held in January 2012, and the top proposals will be presented at the Drylands Design Conference March 24-25, 2012. This conference will bring together policy makers and design professionals to discuss innovations in planning and architecture that will make a substantive impact on water issues in our state. Ideas generated from the conference will be used to further the AIACC’s advocacy initiatives in this area, and this collaboration is just one example of the many I am hopeful will result in the strengthened partnership between CAF and the AIACC.

These are just a few of the many accomplishments that the AIACC, through the hard work of its many committees, volunteers, and professional staff, has achieved in 2011. I am pleased to be a small part of this organization and look forward to seeing the planning efforts and realignments we undertook this year materialize in 2012.

 

Acting State Architect Howard “Chip” Smith Recognized for his Leadership

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At the recent AIACC Awards and Installation Celebration, Acting California State Architect Howard “Chip” Smith was recognized for his distinguished service to the citizens of California and the design and construction community. For the past 15 months, Chip faced a multitude of challenges worsened by a difficult economy and a highly politicized environment. His leadership, dedication, and perseverance have enabled the Division of the State Architect (DSA) to continue to address and resolve complex issues and concerns surrounding the design, approval, and construction of public schools.

The AIACC is heavily vested in the discussions about a renewed DSA, the appointment of a strong state architect, and the DSA’s role in the renewal of California as a leader in the thoughtful development of the built environment. During his tenure, Chip has proven to be an ally of the profession, sharing the AIACC’s interest in the facilitation of collaboration and the constructive engagement of the design and construction community toward the shared goal of providing stability to the DSA and leadership to the office.

 

AIACC Members Monitor the Community College Chancellor’s Office

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The AIA California Council keeps a constant, watchful eye on issues that affect the practice of architecture and the built environment, and it has a successful track record for effectiveness in advocacy on behalf of the profession. AIACC’s strength and ability to protect and promote our profession comes directly from our members. Through members of the State Action Liaison Committee (SALC), we monitor and maintain direct contact with California State Agencies that have direct or indirect impact on the practice of architecture. This is the first in a series of updates from one of the 13 agencies we monitor on your behalf.

California Community College Chancellor’s Office
The College Finance and Facilities Planning Division oversees the formulation of policies that determine the distribution of local assistance and capital outlay funds for the 72 community college districts. They oversee the construction and remodeling of new buildings and centers, and they use web-based tools to assess facilities, coordinate planning, and evaluate and manage projects efficiently. Doug Patterson, AIA, SALC liaision recently met with Fred Harris, Assistant Vice Chancelor, to identify issues of concern and opportunities for collaboration with the architectural profession.

Project Close-out with DSA – how can AIACC assist the CCCCO, the 72 Community College Districts, and their members to support and advance DSA project closeout activities?

Statewide Education Bond
$37B is needed for California’s Community Colleges over the next 10 years based on a facilities “needs” analysis. How can the AIACC support the next Statewide Education Bond measure?

Coordination with CCFC – California Community College Facilities Coalition
This is an organizational structure designed to utilize public/private partnerships to advance advocacy efforts for facilities issues and provide critical information and services to community college districts and their business partners on facility matters. How can the AIACC improve collaboration with the CCFC?

New Technology / Innovation
FUSION is a web-based suite of tools to support the integrated management and reporting on California community college facilities throughout the state. This approach allows for a consistent, standardized approach used by all college districts and for improved efficiency for the districts as well as the California Community College System.

There are also other issues of concern to the profession including updating the California Building Code with amendments and opportunities to coordinate with public utilities to increase incentives for energy efficient design.

 

The Search for the Next State Architect Continues

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AIA California Council, AIACC, Appointments Unit, architects, Division of the State Architect, DSA, Governor Brown

Parallel with its efforts to strengthen and elevate the purpose of the Division of the State Architect, The AIACC seeks to strengthen the next State Architect’s role in design and construction and is working with the Brown Administration to make it a reality.

As stated in the AIACC’s whitepaper, Maximizing California’s Resources: Recommendations for a Stronger Design and Construction Industry, in order to help build the State’s economy, provide needed jobs, improve our worn infrastructure, house our growing population, and preserve our natural resources, The AIA California Council urges the Administration to 1) Appoint a strong State Architect with vision, to lead the renewed organization insightfully, vigorously, and effectively and 2) Consolidate the State’s construction related functions under the Division of the State Architect as a single, efficient agency, responsible for policy and planning for the built environment, oversight of the design and construction industry, and leadership in sustainability. This renewed State Architect will once again serve as a trusted advisor to the Governor, a resource for the Legislature, and a leader of the profession, bringing architects’ knowledge and skills to bear on the complex challenges facing the state.

The AIACC is working with the Administration’s Appointments Unit to provide candidates for consideration. Through the work of the State Architect Selection Recommendation Task Group and the Executive Committee, the AIACC has advanced four candidates to Governor Brown for consideration for appointment.

During conversations with the Governor’s Appointment’s Unit the AIACC was given the following as criteria for its search efforts:

  • The Governor wants ethnic, gender, and geographic (north and South state representation) diversity
  • Candidates must be a visionary on energy and sustainability issues, and a leader. They must possess and understanding of DSA’s purpose, and be politically astute.

The Governor has expressed a personal interest in the position and as such will conduct the interviews personally. Thus, the timeline for this appointment is dependent upon the Governor’s schedule and priorities. We will keep the membership informed on any developments that arise regarding this important appointment.

 

AIACC Responds to Governor Brown’s Request to Find the Next State Architect – 6/13/11

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A strong State Architect is critical to the future economic success of California. Whether you are engaged in the school construction process or not, the State Architect is a vital participant in rebuilding the state’s economy as we seek to provide jobs, improve our worn out infrastructure, house our growing population and preserving our natural resources.

Recent investigations into the seismic safety and delivery of California’s schools coupled with the current economic climate have raised interest by the Brown Administration in addressing key issues facing the Division of the State Architect (DSA). As part of our ongoing advocacy efforts on behalf of the profession, the AIACC has invested significant time and resources in developing a vision for a reinvigorated DSA. At the core of this new model is a collaborative approach, bringing together all the parties involved in the design and construction industry, facilitating a cooperative response to the critical issues effecting California. However, this is just one step in creating a more effective agency; critical to its success is a strong leader.

Governor Brown is taking a personal interest in the next State Architect and has asked the AIACC to nominate candidates for consideration. The Administration is looking for diverse candidates (ethnicity, gender and geographically (Northern and Southern California) and someone who is a visionary; a creative thinker who seeks creative solutions to our built environment related problems.

The AIACC has established a task group to vet candidates for consideration. They have also developed the following list of attributes, qualifications, and qualities and believe the ideal candidate for the position of California State Architect must possess:

  • A strong leader (a hands-on, make it happen person)
  • Politically astute (understands the role and responsibilities of both the position of State Architect, and the Division of the State Architect)
  • Problem solver (recognizes issues and finds ways for improvement and/or change, visionary)
  • Possess the ability to work within the current system (finds ways to improve it using what already exists, and not be openly critical)
  • Has an ability to collaboratively work with people
  • Exudes confidence
  • Be open and transparent
  • Knowledgeable on the social aspects of environmental and energy issues

We know this is a tall order for anyone to fill, and while many Californians are frustrated with the sometimes onerous, bureaucratic nature of government, the AIACC is working on your behalf to offer solutions and ensure architects are part of the dialogue. The AIACC stands ready to assist the next State Architect and the Administration in solving the complex problems facing our state and your investment in the AIACC has made this possible.

Questions regarding DSA or this process? Contact Kurt Cooknick, Assoc. AIA, Director of Regulatory Affairs

 

AIA Los Angeles Challenges DSA to Consider Alternatives for School Construction – 6/16/11

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Acting California State Architect Howard “Chip” Smith met with AIA members to address their individual and collective concerns regarding the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and opportunities to streamline the school construction process in California.

Many DSA related issues were discussed, the most significant being plan check and the possibility of making changes to DSA’s current role in the plan checking and certification of public K-12 schools. Suggestions included allowing Architects of Record to self-certify public K-12 school projects at the end of construction; allowing DSA to delegate plan check functions to local building departments for selected K-12 districts, and the possibility for a “tiered DSA process” that streamlines review for small projects.

Efforts to outsource plan review for structural, mechanical, and electrical disciplines currently are employed by the DSA, however there have been calls to extend this to approval responsibility as well. Last year the Schwarzenegger Administration introduced SB 1227 (Runner) which, if passed, would have transferred the authority to review and approve school construction projects to local building departments. It was the Administration’s contention that transferring the duties of the DSA to local building departments would “improve government efficiency and expedite plan review and approval of school construction projects.” Just prior to its first hearing, SB 1227 was canceled at the request of author and the bill was subsequently dropped. The AIACC opposed this bill as members felt it would have created building plan approval chaos and confusion, given the multiple jurisdictions across California and within single school districts (LAUSD has 22 building departments within its district boundaries).

Another significant issue discussed was the inability of architectural firms not currently involved in the design of public schools – but active in the designing of private schools – getting listed for RFQ’s. This has been attributed to the complications associated with DSA’s approval process and a public school district’s desire to hire architectural firms that can navigate the DSA process. It was pointed during the discussion that this barrier to firms is also a barrier to districts in that it precludes them from access to cutting edge educationally integrated design.

While there were no immediate solutions to these issues, the dialog is now open and future discussions are being planned for. Do you have other issues with DSA or recommendations?

 

The Impact of Regulatory Agencies on the Practice of Architecture

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Often times the term “Regulations”, makes people cringe. But in the practice of architecture, regulations play a critical role ensuring the public’s health, safety and welfare. The efforts of the AIACC Regulatory Affairs programs are essential to the profession of architecture, not only in providing members with a voice, but also enabling them to be a participant in how regulations impact the profession. In order to strengthen member’s participation, a newly formed State Agency Liaison Committee (SALC) has been developed with the goal of monitoring and maintaining direct AIACC member contact with California State Agencies that have a direct impact on the practice of architecture. The new SALC team will bring forward the proposed slate of Agencies each year for review and approval by the AIACC Executive Committee. Four annual meetings are proposed to be conducted via conference calls with specific topics to be discussed on each meeting agenda. This newly formed team includes 15 AIACC members who are assigned to maintain contact and build relationships with specific agencies and work with the VP of Regulation and Practice to establish these bridges. Paul Schroeder, AIA, Vice President of Regulation and Practice, is looking forward to the impactful results this new structure will provide for the AIACC, as well as the profession at large. He has been active in AIACC leadership for several years, and has worked diligently to organize this new liaison team.

Schroeder states the liaisons will work with AIACC staff and the individual agencies in tackling specific issues related to each organization. Agencies like the California Architects’ Board, (CAB). Efforts will work toward improving the enforcement of unlicensed practice, and address possible changes to the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), as well as improve the profession’s knowledge and understanding of disability access regulations through continuing education. Efforts to address the Academy of Emerging Professionals and Intern Development Program issues will continue as well.

In addition to working with CAB, the identified individual liaisons will work with many other agencies such as Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD), in analyzing the California healthcare infrastructure and in facilitating development of sustained capacity for communities to address local healthcare issues. The AIACC will participate in program activities and policy decisions affecting healthcare facilities, and work with OSHPD to identify issues of concern, and address the identified issues with the Capitol Forum Healthcare Group.

SALC will also work with the Division of State Architect (DSA) in providing oversight for K-12 schools, community colleges and various other state-owned facilities, becoming more involved in issues of significance to the profession such as building codes, access compliance, plan review, education, and much more, as well as reviewing CASp programs to ensure they are performing as it was intended to, and places no additional burden on the profession. Also, in working with the Department of General Services (DGS), the SALC team will identify issues of concern and foster constructive discussion on issues of mutual interest such as sustainability, procurement, and contract language.

In addition, The Office of Emergency Services (OES) relationship will now be enhanced by the implementation of the SALC team in maintaining communication to better provide members education and training assistance, improving architect’s ability to effectively respond to disasters as they occur. The California Department of Water Resources liaison will review the carrying out of the work of the FloodSafe California programs, partnering with local, regional, and state offices in creating sustainable integrated flood management and emergency response systems throughout California.

This is just a partial list of some of the agencies the SALC team will be working with. For a complete list of agencies, please contact Kurt Cooknick, Director Regulation and Practice at AIACC.

Many other goals exist for the Regulation and Practice programs as well. Not only for those with the new SALC group, but also in working with the DSA the next 13 months in helping to restructure the division, as well as to put forth a viable candidate for appointment as the next State Architect. Schroeder states, “We will also continue our efforts in working toward unifying the sustainability codes; International Green Codes; CalGreen Codes; and develop local chapter workshops with the needed information AIACC members need.”

 

The AIACC Announces the Release of Whitepaper Regarding Possible Restructure of Division of the State Architect (DSA)

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Maximizing California’s Resources: Recommendations for a Stronger
Design and Construction Industry

Sacramento, CA- March 17, 2011 — In furthering past efforts to actively engage State Government in helping find ways to be more effective and efficient, The American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC) has published a whitepaper; Maximizing California’s Resources: Recommendations for a Stronger Design and Construction Industry. It presents a comprehensive vision which includes specific recommendations for building a stronger DSA, furthering the role and relevancy of the State Architect in California’s government. The whitepaper is intended to be a first-step toward assisting state government leaders in addressing the myriad of issues regarding planning, design, and construction affecting the quality of life for California’s citizens and its economy.

As a consequence of California’s current budget crisis, and the cuts the state is facing, which in turn will affect programs and services that benefit our communities, efficiency and effectiveness in the built environment has never been more important.

Architectural design has the inherent ability to solve problems that are physical, as well as social and economic. Without direct internal access to government decision makers, the AIACC cannot affect the transformations needed that ultimately effect the greater community at large. Transformations such as new delivery methods that are more efficient and cost effective, designs that go beyond sustainable, and post occupancy evaluation tools that impact future designs for better building performance, are key to our goal for a preferred future. Former State Architects, as well as architectural practitioners, involved in the development of this white paper, recently stated the value of its contents.

“The AIACC has shown responsible leadership in preparing this important, and much needed set of recommendations for maximizing effective utilization of the State’s design and construction resources for the benefit of California’s citizens.” Barry Wasserman, FAIA, Former California State Architect 1978 – 1983.

“I am pleased to endorse the efforts of the AIACC in producing this important white paper. The fragmentation of the State’s design and construction process over the years has increased costs to California taxpayers through over regulation and burdensome duplication of services. There is no single trusted advisor for the Governor, or the legislature, to acquire accurate advice for the industry. Now that the State of California is facing unprecedented infrastructure, budget and environmental issues, the time has come to consolidate design and construction into one entity and restore the Division of the State Architect to the role it held during the previous Brown Administration.” Paul Neel, FAIA, CDS, Former California State Architect 1989 – 1991.

“I applaud and support the AIACC’s efforts to strengthen and reinvigorate the role of the State Architect. Architecture, and its positive impact on society, reflects the values of our State. By restoring the role of the State Architect to one of leadership and prominence, we are expressing pride and an elevated standard for our public buildings and an optimistic outlook toward California’s future.” Steve Newsom, AIA, LEED AP.

This whitepaper offers some important suggestions that if considered and implemented could make a marked difference in the quality and cost effectiveness of planning, design, and construction services for future state funded and supported projects – and in many ways the future of the profession itself. Visit AIACC.org to review the whitepaper.

 

AIACC Responds to DSA Issues

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The AIACC responds to recent issues regarding the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and the growing number of public schools that are being occupied without the documentation the DSA uses to determine a constructed project complies with the codes and regulations governing school construction, attesting to their safety.

The members of the American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC), are deeply committed to public safety and to the design and construction of schools that are safe for children and teachers, and can withstand an earthquake; we should expect no less. However, a growing number of public schools are being occupied without the closeout process documentation the Division of the State Architect (DSA) uses to determine that a constructed project complies with the codes and regulations governing school construction – attesting to their safety. While this is serious, it should not surprise anyone involved in meeting the demands of California’s public school construction process. Beginning in the late 1980’s, meeting the unprecedented demand for schools was greatly complicated by the 90’s recession and the consequences the recession had on the DSA’s resources. The economy improved; however, the DSA still faced hiring freezes, an inability to authorize overtime, furloughs, and other Governor’s Executive Orders further reducing and reallocating staff resources. Before long, demand for new schools and more classrooms quickly outpaced needed regulatory resources. The impact on DSA’s workload was not adequately anticipated (at the height of the demand, there was a reported average of one new K-12 school being occupied every day). Consequently, the inventory of non-certified, occupied schools expanded as the growing demand for plan review assumed priority.

For several months, reducing the inventory of uncertified projects and improving the certification process has been the subject of collaborative efforts by a number of individuals and organizations, including DSA and the architectural profession. While the lack of certification does not immediately translate into unsafe buildings or students being at risk, uncertified buildings should be carefully scrutinized to ensure that the lack of appropriate project documentation is not masking something more serious. It is important to note that although a building may be deemed uncertified, it was constructed using plans that were designed by licensed professionals, and were approved by the DSA plan check process.

The Field Act has long demonstrated its contributions to safeguarding essential service buildings and California schools. However, times have changed; design and construction methods, and materials have changed as well. The architectural profession is committed to working with the DSA and other stakeholders in response to the changes in project delivery, innovations in student education, and the development of facilities that educate emerging generations.

The lull in the economy provides a timely opportunity to thoroughly review the rules, regulations, and entitlement procedures that govern the design and construction of California school facilities. It also provides a window of opportunity to reorganize and revitalize the leadership and charter of the DSA in order to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Therefore, the AIACC recently published a policy paper, Maximizing California’s Resources: Recommendations for a Stronger Design and Construction Industry.” This paper discusses the role of design and construction as a critical economic engine in California and describes how a repurposed California State Architect, and supporting DSA, can provide the needed vision and leadership necessary for a preferred future for California and its citizens.

 

AIACC Makes Recommendations to Foster a Stronger DSA

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AIA California Council, AIACC, Architecture Profession, California Department of General Services, California Government, Division of State Architect, DSA, Future of Architects, Governor, K-12 Schools, Legislature, State Architect, whitepaper

Horace Mann Elementary School - 2004 Design Award Winner - Architect Moore Ruble Yudell Architects and Planners

The AIACC believes that as a consequence of external budgetary pressures and as a result of its limited role as overseer in the development of K-12 schools, the Division of the State Architect (DSA) has never been in greater danger of either having its current functions diminished or the office as we know it completely eliminated.

Many, if not most of us, have taken for granted the role of the State Architect and have assumed that the person in that position was serving as a trusted advisor to the Governor and the Legislature on all things related to the design and construction industry. This may have been true in the past but it is certainly not the current situation, and we fear the dialogue may be absolved further.

As much as we believe in the importance and need for an architectural voice within state government, we also recognize the power of design to transform and the value of design to deal with our state’s current challenges. Design has the inherent ability to solve problems that are not only physical but also social and economic. Without direct internal access to government decision makers we cannot bring the transformations taking place in our practices to the greater community. Transformations such as new delivery methods that are more efficient and cost effective, designs that go beyond sustainable, and post occupancy evaluation tools that inform future designs regarding both building and human performance to name a few.

In response to these concerns, the Council has brought together our profession’s thought leaders to help research and inform the future of the DSA. This has culminated in the following whitepaper: Maximizing California’s Resources: Recommendations for a Stronger Design and Construction Industry. This paper presents a “comprehensive vision” with specific recommendations toward building a stronger DSA, and furthering the role and relevancy of our State Architect in California government. The whitepaper offers some important suggestions that if considered and implemented could make a marked difference in the quality and cost effectiveness of planning, design, and construction services for future state funded and supported projects – and in many ways the future of the profession itself.

Do you agree with this vision?

Consolidation of the State’s construction related functions under the Division of the State Architect as a single agency responsible for policy and planning of the built environment, oversight of the design and construction industry, and leadership in environmental sustainability.

We hope that this will be the beginning of a dialogue and not the end of an era; please feel free participate by soliciting your comments below.

Camino Nuevo High School - 2007 Design Award Winner - Architect Daly Genik