Area Planning Commissions

Derek Powell

Derek brings over 20 years of experience in media and entertainment to the Central Area Planning Commission, combining his expertise in media supply chain operations with a deep commitment to sustainability. His background includes extensive research and analysis of sustainability challenges and opportunities within the media sector, providing him with valuable insights into integrating sustainable practices. He is adept at identifying key trends and offering actionable recommendations for organizations seeking to improve their environmental impact.

David Phelps

Commissioner David Phelps is a State and Local Public Affairs Professional and Principal of Phelps Public Affairs. He has 25 years of hands-on experience with non-profit management, business consulting, and organizational advocacy. The Commissioner regularly works with top employers in the North Valley’s manufacturing sector to address future workforce and economic development needs in our region.

Joe Gatlin

Commissioner Gatlin is a proud San Pedro resident and California native who has been a community leader, advocate, activist, and humanitarian for over sixty years. He is the founder, and current vice-president of the NAACP Branch #1069 and founded the Juneteenth 400 non-profit which has been hosting a Juneteenth celebration for over thirty years.

Nareg Gourdikian

Commissioner Gourdikian works in affordable and workforce housing development throughout Southern California. He has master's degrees in Urban Planning and Real Estate Development from Columbia University and undergraduate degrees in Environmental Science and Geography from UC Santa Barbara. Prior to a career in housing development, Gourdikian worked in life sciences and technology real estate investment and development. Nareg enjoys playing soccer, mountain biking and hiking. He and his wife live in Studio City.

Jasson Crockett

Commissioner Crockett joined Snap Inc. in January 2021, where he heads Public Policy and Government Relations for the State of California. Commissioner Crockett’s responsibilities include liaising with local and state elected leaders, agencies, and community organizations, to advance legislative priorities, strategic partnerships and civic initiatives. Prior to joining Snap, Commissioner Crockett was Director of Community Business in the Office of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Jaime Del Rio

Jaime Del Rio is a Los Angeles native born and raised in the Northeast San Fernando Valley. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning from California State University, Northridge, and has worked as a Community Organizer since 2014. Currently, Jaime is the Director of Organizing for Abundant Housing LA. Before joining AHLA, he worked at TreePeople from 2019 to 2021, leading outreach efforts on a Needs Assessment WaterTalks survey and organizing Water Equity issues in marginalized communities.

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